Life Lessons:
La Tondra Murray
1. Are you happy at the moment?
Yes, I am finally clear about my priorities and the choices that I need to make to be at my best for myself as well as the people I love. I truly see life as a gift, and I want to make the most of every moment.
2. If you could go back and say anything to your 16-year-old self now, what would it be?
I would tell myself to stress less and enjoy the journey. As lover of math and science, I?ve always been focused on outcomes. I’ve learned, however, that the process for pretty much everything in life matters just as much if not more than the results.
3. What’s the most important thing you’ve learned this year?
I have learned how to say ?no? with confidence and a smile. I’ve become much more intentional about how I invest my time and energy in support of the activities that matter most to me. If I don’t say no, I risk compromising the very things that I am already committed to do.
4. What do you most want to achieve in the next 12 months?
I want to grow and extend my coaching business to reach 1000+ women STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) professionals globally. I am passionate about helping others realize their fullest potential, and I know with absolute certainty that my life’s mission is to teach others how to take responsibility for the creation of their own joy.
5. What’s your secret to happiness?
I believe that happiness comes from being present and thankful. Gratitude doesn’t require perfection, so I know that in this moment I have and I am more than enough.
6. What one ritual or practice keeps you grounded?
I laugh a lot. Humor is a cornerstone for all of my relationships. A bit of levity can diffuse the more somber aspects of life and remind us just how blessed we are on a daily basis.
7. What’s your biggest regret?
I regret allowing fear to hold me back. For the longest time I focused on the goal of not being afraid of anything. Now I know that I’m going to be afraid, but I’m bold enough to go for my dreams anyway!
8. What’s the most important lesson you’ve taught your kid(s)?
Love yourself completely and treat others the way you want to be treated.
9. What bad habit would you most like to change about yourself?
I procrastinate more than I should, especially when I am trying something new. I’d like to get better at diving in with both feet, even when I don’t have all of the answers.
10. Aside from motherhood/fatherhood and marriage what are you most proud of in your life?
I’m proud of the way that I embrace my authentic self. I continue to grow and evolve as a person, but I really like the woman that I am right now. I have my share of challenges, but I’m working through them with grace and a positive attitude.
11. When were you happiest?
I am the happiest that I’ve ever been right now. My story is complex but the dots all seem to connect and converge in a meaningful way.
12. What ten words best describe you?
Hopeful, Dynamic, Driven, Analytical, Generous, Empathetic, Inspired, Enthusiastic, Courageous, Reflective
La Tondra Murray, Ph.D. is a certified personal coach and educator with a background in information technology, business and academia. As the founder of ONA Partners, she helps technical professionals use evidence-based, data-driven techniques to lead happier, more productive lives through the delivery of customized workshops and coaching services.
La Tondra coaches individuals in the areas of talent assessment, work-life integration, productivity and emerging leadership. She is a Certified Personal and Executive Coach (CPEC) and well as a Certified Gallup Strengths Coach, well versed in the StrengthsFinder assessment. La Tondra has 16 years of leadership experience in large-scale technology-based corporate and higher education environments. You can learn more at www.latondramurray.com.
