We had the good fortune of connecting with Sharon Angel and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Sharon, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
Risk is my actual middle name lol. From moving to different countries to starting a business to venturing out to do different projects, I’ve taken many risks in life. Growing up, some of my decisions were well thought out as I have said yes because someone told me to. Though, I don’t regret them, stepping into the unknown has become comfortable for me. Now when I start a new project for work or sign a contract that is new to me, I know where I or my business might potentially fail. I’m able to step into that world knowing my uncertainties and strangely that gives me courage to explore and conquer the unknown.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?

Identity is so important. During the pandemic most people struggled with the question, “why am I doing what I’m doing?” “Who am I slaving away for?” There were no satisfying answers to those questions except, it made room for deeper questions like “who am I?”

Sometimes, we don’t pay attention to life as we keep running a race with no finish line in sight. At some point, we fail to recognize ourselves, the people we love and the things that interest us. Finding meaning in daily life is crucial to human living. That is why every time we re-asses, do something about those assessments and make those essential decisions (good or bad) we come to a place of freedom and satisfaction.

When I took time to reinvent myself realizing how fearful and empty my life was, it was the best gift that I gave to me. It was scary but not more scary than choosing to live in that void. Today, I can say that I’m at a place of freedom and peace. It’s true that I’ve lost a lost a lot but I’ve gained much more as this journey is worth any comfort, class or handout. I have found my identity and it has made me secure to keep my yes’s yes and no’s to be a strong no.

One big lesson I learned and I’m most proud of is that identity comes before purpose. When someone says find meaning, people tend to associate it with purpose. But my journey has taught me that you cannot find purpose without identity, as purpose is to serve and identity is for yourself. You cannot give from an empty glass. You have to know your stuff and have experience in the field you want to serve. Only then will you be contributing to the greater good of humanity and moving forward in your own life.

After learning this lesson for myself, I have been dedicating time to share my story and thoughts using my book, podcast and social media. It makes me happy to experience this liberation for myself and when others are able to practice this freedom for themselves, it is the ultimate satisfaction. It truly takes courage to identify who you are as I find that those who are able to master themselves are the ones who have peace and balance in life.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?

LA is a beautiful city and I think everyone should spend at the least a weekend here. Some of the reasons why I have fallen in love with this city are the diversity, beautiful sunsets, beaches and wide range of ethnic foods.
I highly recommend taking a day trip to Catalina. Don’t forget your beach accessories and swimming gear. 
Day two would be Venice canals and Birria Tacos. Prepare to walk around and face the crowd on Venice beach. 
Day Three would be to chill at Hermosa beach and catch some live music in the evening.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I have to thank my very close friends who supported me through the journey. Whether they were my roommates through my phases of struggle, confusion and indecisiveness or friends from teenage years who just stayed on the phone till I got better. They helped me feel loved and supported by just being there. I wish I could mention them by name as each one deserves a shrine of their own. But here’s my thanks and I hope I can return the favor when they need it.

Website: www.sharonangel.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/sharonangelig

Twitter: www.twitter.com/sharonangeltwit

Facebook: www.facebook.com/Sharonangeld

Youtube: www.youtube.com/SharonAngel

Other: TikTok: www.youtube.com/SharonAngel

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