Professional soft skills training enables an individual to improve personal attributes, communicate efficiently and manage relationships in a business environment. Increasing adoption of digital platforms, swiftly growing social media, and growing competition among youths are some of the leading trends in the soft skills training market that spur industry demand. The market is gaining traction with continued globalization, and incumbents are switching to virtual platforms to conduct live chats, workshops, and webinars. An inspirational leader dedicated to transforming others, Anita Lawrence, the founder of Exceed Excellence, leads the company and people's lives towards greater heights. Exceed Excellence strives to enable individuals to realize their true potential and excel in different spheres of their lives.

A leadership consultant, trainer, and author with 23 years of rich experience positively impacting different lives, Anita Lawrence helps people to become the voice of change and live life as they desire.

Anita Lawrence engages in an exclusive interaction with Women Entrepreneur Magazine. Here are the highlights.

Tell us about your early educational journey and prior industry experience.

I have received an Advanced Diploma in Business Administration and Post-Graduate Diploma in Training and Performance Management from the University of Leicester, UK. I enjoyed friendships more than studying during my school life, which moved me closer to understanding myself and my passion for people. Earlier, I worked with a training company and found the people development field extremely meaningful. Later, I moved into Business Development, where I met clients and discussed their training needs to grow their workforce. My first training session was in 1999, and I still experience the same overwhelming feeling of awe and joy every time I conduct my training sessions.

What are some essential features of your expertise as a business leader? Throw some light on your work as an author of 'Inspirational Women of the World'?

I have a relentless passion for people and their personal and professional development. I thrive on creating a positive impact on people and helping them overcome barriers to being the best version of themselves so they can live the life they desire. My ever-constant pursuit of personal and leadership growth is crucial to my expertise as a business leader. My extraordinary journey of change began over two decades ago and involved honing abilities that play a vital role in my entrepreneurial life today. I empower others to do the same, so they can use adversities to their advantage and turn trials into tools for transformation. When the pandemic hit in 2020, I was given an opportunity to co-author "Inspirational Women of the World". My contribution was the first chapter, where I recounted how the greatest tragedy of my life shaped me into who I am today and how it became a catalyst for my continuous growth. I also got to share what I believe to be the ingredients for success in life. It was an experience to be cherished and I look forward to writing my next book in the upcoming years!

Tell us about the underlying idea behind Exceed Excellence and some of its most unique features.

I believe being in the people development field was the best way to live out my calling and contribute to society. I founded Exceed Excellence in 2003 with the vision to contribute to building a nation with caring organizations and united families fulfilling their dreams. Exceed Excellence exists to unlock the potential of people from all walks of life to perform at their best – personally and professionally. We empower people to sustainably make significant enhancements in their lives by connecting them to a deeper level of motivation and assisting them in discovering their passion and purpose. I am thrilled that many have successfully transformed their relationships, mindsets, careers, and personal and professional lives due to my training programmes.

"Lead with vision, inspire with heart, live the example"

What are some of the most significant milestones you have achieved throughout your professional journey? What has been the driving force behind your success?

I became a Certified Personality Trainer (US) in 2000 and met the late Florence Littauer. She was truly inspirational in the way she loved and taught people. I became a Certified EQ Practitioner and Assessor with Six Seconds USA to assist organizations in developing their workforce by increasing their emotional intelligence. The opportunity to become part of the Maxwell Leadership Certified Team in 2017 widened my horizons and gave me great mentors like John Maxwell and his faculty. I have been organizing and hosting Live2Lead, a leadership and personal growth event in Malaysia, since 2017, where many leaders came together to network, learn and grow. I also worked with clients from reputable companies, like Intel Microelectronics (M) SdnBhd, Intel Technology SdnBhd, Sony (EMCS) Malaysia, and many more. I believe that my driving force has always been my passion for people and the transformation of lives. The joy of knowing that I have played a small role in impacting thousands of lives over the past 23 years keeps me going. Additionally, having a community of people to support me, hold me accountable, and help me see my blind spots was crucial in my journey toward being an effective leader.

What is your take on the low representation of women in top leadership roles across industries and geographies?

As long as women desire to grow into top leadership roles, the opportunities will present themselves; they must prove themselves through their competence, credibility, and character. Organizations need to be willing to transition from what is considered a norm to making changes for the future,which includes allowing more women to showcase their talents and capabilities. Women who have been juggling their roles as moms, wives, and professionals need to ask themselves whether they are living the best life and, if not, what is the one thing that can change their lives for the better.

What would your advice be to young women and girls aspiring to become business leaders and entrepreneurs in the future?

By consistently giving your best and doing meaningful work, opportunities will begin to unfold. During life's challenging moments, exercise positivity, stay hopeful and resist the temptation to look at yourselves as victims. Because a victim's mindset can rob you of the opportunity to do the very thing that could turn things around. No matter how unfair life may seem, we can still accomplish things if we choose to. The truth is that the world is sorely in need of individuals willing to step up every day and make a positive difference wherever they are. So, why can't that person be you?

Anita Lawrence, Founder, Exceed Excellence

With a strong passion for nurturing positive growth, Anita Lawrence utilizes her background in training and people development to help others live life intentionally. She believes in exceeding expectations and bringing out the best in people.

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A Business Leader You Admire

• John C. Maxwell