Susan Crawford, Emotional Intelligence Change Leader
EITC Change Leaders: celebrating our EITC alumni and colleagues who are exemplifying exceptional leadership in their professional lives and promoting emotional intelligence in the world.
October 2019 EITC Change Leader: Susan Crawford is a coach and founder of Meraki Inspired Coaching & Consultation.
Which area of EQ is most important for you?
The interpersonal area of EQ is definitely my strongest – I lead with my heart. People are the engine that drives an organization, team or movement, forward – and they matter. As a coach I have the privilege of seeing people come alive when I speak to their untapped potential. My work is based on relationships, communication and connection. My job is to inspire, motivate and challenge people to show up unapologetically so that they can create impact where they work and how they live.
How has the EQ-i 2.0 certification training impacted your professional life?
After certification I started looking at myself and others with deeper compassion, curiosity and empathy. Using EQ in my coaching practice allows me to share the model to support others on a similar journey of self-discovery. In my programs and professional development work with teams, I use EQ as the foundation to support relationship building and uncover ways to leverage these skills in the workplace.
What’s your definition of a leader?
I believe we all have the capacity to be leaders in our lives – some with titles, some without. A leader is someone whose words and actions are aligned.
How are you living out what it means to be a leader?
I am a trailblazer. I’ve never fit into the status quo and am pretty comfortable being unconventional. I quit my job a year ago to start my own business because I refused to compromise who I was and what I believed in for a paycheque. I chose courage over fear. I trusted my instincts and refused to settle. I am modelling (for my kids and others) that choice, self-awareness and the power of taking action can change your life.
Who is your favourite leader and why?
The list is long but right now Greta Thunberg and Autumn Peltier have my attention. Two young women who are warriors fighting for climate change. I am inspired, moved and in awe of their passion and purpose. They are moving mountains with their words and actions. This is leadership. The whole world is paying attention to young activists like these two, among others. It’s about time we stop assuming the title of “leader” is reserved for those over a certain age.
What’s your superpower or secret skill?
I love public speaking – I know it’s the number one phobia for many, but on a stage I come alive. I think my interpersonal composite really helps me here because I love to read the audience, the energy in the room and use that to take them on a journey with me. I want the audience to see, hear and feel my words when I speak. For me, public speaking is like art – I’m always inspired by what we create together.
That’s the person I am proud of.
Susan truly leads by example, inspires others and is an exceptional public speaker and facilitator of training.
So inspired and proud to see you fly❣