In 1995, corporate trainer Sue Stockdale went on an Arctic expedition that changed her life.
Trekking across 350 miles of frozen tundra for a month, the Scottish-born Stockdale became the first British woman to walk to the magnetic North Pole, in northeastern Canada.
The event was a grueling test of endurance, willpower and teamwork. Long days hiking in single file, bundled up against extreme weather, gave her plenty of time to think. It was the first of several similar adventures she would participate in over the years.
Stockdale found that an expedition’s challenges brought out the best in her. She realized that some of the same inner qualities that helped her succeed in the Arctic were also crucial for achievement elsewhere in life, especially business.
She came through the experience inspired to help other people, especially women, discover their own personal best. Since then she’s traveled the world as a motivational speaker, written two books, and is the founder of Mission Possible, a company that helps women start businesses.
Stockdale was in Astoria last month for an event at the Blue Scorcher Bakery and Café. She spoke about "Motivation for Success for Women in the Workplace."
In an interview after the talk, Stockdale said it’s important to discover what you love most and expand on that.
"Be aware of what you are passionate about," she said. "We all have passions."
For people who don’t know what their passion might be, Stockdale recommended taking time for reflection - to connect inwardly and notice that to which they are drawn.
Identifying a passion is just the first step - next is to brainstorm how it might translate into a business opportunity.
"Why is it worth anything?" she said. "Who would want to buy that? There might be a way to sell it on the Internet."
Stockdale said that women in particular often feel that they have to be larger-than-life to succeed in business. She considers herself to be a fairly "ordinary" person, but one who has achieved some extraordinary things. That makes her a relatable role model for women who may be building the confidence to recognize their own hidden potential.
"I connect with people at a peer level," she said. "When I’m speaking to an audience, I consider that I am speaking to a bunch of my friends."
In keeping with her "everywoman" approach, Stockdale reminds clients to acknowledge that they are not perfect and be OK with the idea. That kind of thinking can come in handy - especially in the current economy - when a business venture doesn’t make it. It means redefining the concept of failure.
"People need to remember that just because the business is closed, it is not a reflection on you as an individual," she said. "You need to separate yourself from that and do something else - accept that what’s in the past is in the past."
Another thing entrepreneurs need to focus on in a down market is making the most of existing resources. It’s a lesson she learned during the polar expedition, where it was important to travel light.
"Think in terms of multipurpose," she said. "All the small businesses I know that are surviving are adaptable."
Above all, Stockdale said, a positive attitude is paramount - another lesson in Arctic survival. In such demanding conditions, it’s easy to feel like everything is against you. But a poor attitude can lead to unwise and even life threatening choices.
"I became very aware of my thoughts, and I could see if I was becoming negative," she said. "The quality of our thinking will determine the quality of the result."
Stockdale, who currently lives in England, is the author of "Secrets of Successful Women Entrepreneurs" and Kick Start Your Motivation," and is facilitator for the London Chapter of Women Presidents Organization.
WPO is an international organization for women presidents and CEOs of private corporations that have $2 million or more in gross sales.