Today we’d like to introduce you to Tony Shavers III.
It’s an honor to speak with you today. Why don’t you give us some details about you and your story. How did you get to where you are today?
I like to say that for me, creative writing was a necessity for survival. I remember the first time I fell in love with words when I was in the fourth grade. I wrote in my notebook a poem about farm animals and global warming – I still don’t know why that was so important to me. However, what I didn’t know was that this was going to be a gift that would help me deal with a culmination of experiences in my life. I believe that my spirit, inspiration, and life experience have led me on a journey of self-discovery, where time and time again I have practiced my passion and gift in life to help others. I found that I had a remarkable gift in making a difference in people’s lives and that my power came from being a voice for those who perhaps didn’t feel comfortable speaking up. It was through this that I found real power in what I said and did and knew that I needed to share it with the world.
I’m sure your success has not come easily. What challenges have you had to overcome along the way?
A large part of my journey was dealing with self-doubt. It robbed me for so long of the talents that I knew I already had within me. I was literally sitting on GOLD, but I was afraid of being rejected, afraid of being successful, afraid of what others might think, and afraid of the person I would have to become! It wasn’t until my mentor told me that my future self was waiting for me to realize that I already possessed the knowledge and that the power comes from simply starting and figuring it out as I go. Also, I had to realize that the great rewards that awaited me throughout my journey were on the other side of my comfort zone. In order for me to experience those rewards I had to leave the land of familiar to experience the radical shift I knew I was destined for. The journey has not been easy but so very worth it. I had to understand that self-doubt must exist, but ultimately, I control how long I sit in it. I’m so grateful for the challenges because it forced me to find strength in my identity and build new habits so that I could conquer my biggest goals!
Let’s talk about the work you do. What do you specialize in and why should someone work with you over the competition?
I am the best-selling author and Top Ten Finalist out of 1,000 authors for best self-help book from the Author Academy Awards for my book, Is Your Dream Really Worth It? Discover Your Passion, Purpose, and Plan. This book takes readers on a path of self-exploration to investigate what they’re passionate about, how this passion can be built into their character and everyday life, and finally helps them unlock their infinite potential. It’s a compelling book of self-realization through an inspired and motivating voice. It’s a work that locates the reader’s true identity, reveals it, and then gives them the confidence to take it to where it is needed in their community. In addition to that, I am the Founder of #MyStoryMatters which is a self-publishing 1:1 coaching program to help non-fiction & self-help authors find their voice, write their story, and share it with the world. There is no greater feeling than to have a client hold their book in their hands. Aspiring authors within the non-fiction and/or self-help space should work with me because of the amazing personalized support I provide. Literally, before the writing process begins there are several conversations about developing your Author Mindset. For so many people who have the desire to write a book, it can often bring up so many insecurities because they feel they are not worthy. In my coaching program, we have those important conversations that ultimately make the process smoother and enjoyable for everyone!
What’s your best piece of advice for readers who desire to find success in their life?
The best piece of advice I would give is to know that you have a gift that others are waiting to hear. It’s time for you to find it, define it, and understand it. I truly believe that if people desire to find success in their lives it starts with looking introspective and asking themselves the uncomfortable but necessary questions that force them to be completely vulnerable. Some of these questions can include: Why am I fearful of pursuing my dreams? What are the barriers that are holding me back? If my life depended on me pursuing my dreams, what would I do different?
Speaking of success, what does the word mean to you?
For me, I define success as the impact I have for my family and my community. At the end of the day, who have I inspired and how have I made a difference in their lives.
What’s next for you?
Honestly, it’s to continue this journey of where I today. There are more people in the world who can benefit from having a book in their hands and it’s my desire to continue this endeavor.
Finally, how can people connect with you if they want to learn more?
You can learn more about myself by following me on Instagram @tonyshavers_3 and viewing my website www.tshavers.com.