As an experienced leader and speaker, Lan Phan is dedicated to helping individuals unlock their potential. With a rich background working with Fortune 500 companies, Lan advises CEOs and C-Suite executives on navigating the dynamic realms of business and innovation. Her first book Do This Daily aims to offer a guide to transforming your life. Drawing on psychology and neuroscience, Lan distills complex topics into simple, actionable behaviors, with the goal of inspiring readers to live their best lives.
In this Q&A, Lan shares a bit about the book and her journey so far.
Wellth: What is your superpower – what sets you apart compared to others?
Since a young age, my superpower has been empathy – an innate ability to connect deeply with and understand people. As I’ve grown older, I’ve combined this gift with my talent for teaching, transforming it into my profession as a writer, trainer, and motivational speaker. My knack for simplifying complex ideas into actionable insights helps others understand and apply the concepts I talk about. This blend of empathy and clarity empowers me to guide others in discovering their purpose and achieving their goals.
Wellth: Who are you when you’re not writing or speaking at events?
You'll probably find me at home. Since publishing my book, I've been doing more global speaking gigs. It's exhausting, both physically and mentally. As an introvert, I need my alone time to recharge. I cherish deep, meaningful connections over superficial ones. I love spending quality time with family and friends, especially my husband and daughter.
We moved from Brooklyn to a small village of 10,000 people to find a community where you know your neighbors. I'm still a work in progress, striving to maintain a better balance between work and creating a life I can be proud of.
Wellth: How do you define purpose, and what inspired you to write "Do This Daily"?
In its simplest form, purpose is why you wake up in the morning, the driving force that gives our lives meaning and direction. It lies at the intersection of our passions, talents, and service to others.
Do This Daily came from my personal journey of discovering and living my purpose. The idea emerged during one of the lowest points in my life when I was laid off from my executive job at Fortune magazine amidst the chaos of the pandemic. However, what truly motivated me to write this book was watching my mother slowly succumb to dementia. I needed to write this book not just for myself but for others and to honor both my mother and daughter. While I couldn't change the past, I could help others learn from our mistakes and experiences.
I wanted to write the book I wish I had read when I was younger, climbing the corporate ladder as an empath, giver, and introvert in environments often hostile to our kind.
Wellth: What do you hope readers will take away from "Do This Daily"?
I hope readers will gain a deeper understanding of how small, consistent actions can lead to significant and positive changes in their lives. I want them to start betting on themselves, tuning out the incessant noise of the world, and living a life true to themselves. I want them to feel empowered to cultivate habits that align with their values and goals, enabling them to live with purpose and fulfillment. Purposeful living isn't always about the big life events but about the small daily commitment to growth, mindfulness, and intentionality. Ultimately, I hope the book inspires readers to take control of their journey and make meaningful progress toward their aspirations every day.
Wellth: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received, and how has it impacted your life and career?
"Focus on progress, not perfection" profoundly impacted my life and career by shifting my mindset from fearing failure to embracing growth. It taught me to value the journey and celebrate small victories rather than being paralyzed by the pursuit of perfection.
It allowed me to take risks, innovate, and continuously improve without self-doubt.
Wellth: How has your journey with the Community of Seven influenced your views on leadership and community building?
It reinforced the importance of empathy, collaboration, and inclusivity in leadership. I've learned that influential leaders listen actively, value diverse perspectives, and empower others to reach their full potential.
This experience has shown me the true power of community in driving change and fostering personal growth. Building strong, authentic connections creates environments where individuals feel valued and motivated to contribute their best. It has inspired me to prioritize trust and mutual support in my endeavors, understanding that collective strength and shared purpose are the foundations of any thriving community.
Wellth: How do you balance your professional endeavors with personal fulfillment and continuous growth?
It involves planning, self-awareness, and setting clear boundaries. I prioritize my time and energy on activities that align with my core values and long-term goals, ensuring that my work and personal life are meaningful and rewarding.
I dedicate time to self-care practices such as exercise, meditation, and spending quality time with loved ones, which help me recharge and stay grounded. Continuous learning and play is also a key component. By being mindful of my priorities and making conscious choices that nurture my professional ambitions and personal well-being, I can maintain a balance.
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