An Unlikely Start

Believing in the potential of every individual has been a key to Anastasia’s success. Coming from humble beginnings she would have been voted least likely to succeed. As the third oldest of twelve kids, there were times her family relied on food stamps, community food programs and thrift stores to get by. While her father always worked, there was not enough money to meet the bills as her family grew. 

At 19, she moved out and was on my own.  Though she had worked form the age of 11 at odd jobs, this was her first corporate job and got a position as a receptionist.  She didn’t live in the right neighborhood, have connections, money or higher education.  What she did have was determination and passion to make something of myself – even if she didn’t know how.  From an early age she knew she could change her circumstances and make a difference in the world.

She found leaders who helped her understand her strengths, discover her leadership voice and guide her through the rough spots. She’s had incredible opportunities – but she’s where she’s at today because her mentors were willing to invest in her development. Now she is passionate about guiding others on their journey.

By starting where she was at and continuing to challenge herself she’s experienced fantastic opportunities.  That wouldn’t have been possible without the support of the many leaders who coached and mentored me along the way.   Over a 25+ corporate career my career spanned many positions and levels of leadership.  My last corporate position was Vice President, Senior Manager in a billion dollar, global company where I was responsible for driving organization transformation and implementing strategic change initiatives in the US, Europe and Asia.

Talk about intuitive development.

If you looked only at the outside circumstances you might have written her off as least likely to succeed.  But she’s learned through personal experience and her years of coaching that outside circumstances don’t tell the whole story.  You can’t underestimate what a person can achieve when they understand their unique value, use their strengths, align with their values and have support in the process. 

“Follow your passion.  There are no safe jobs.  You can’t choose something because you think it will pay the bills each month.  Use your strengths – your natural gifts.  Do something you enjoy.  Follow your passion and dream big. It may take you into some unlikely places but you will always shine if you use your strengths.”        Anastasia Montejano