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Breaking Free: Stop Holding Back, Start Being You
“Dreams turn into hope when we bring useful action to the work. Shannon Talbot’s book is a powerful step on that journey.”
-Seth Godin, author of The Song of Significance
If you feel stuck in your career or life. If you've been holding back at work or at home. If you feel something is missing but you're not sure what it is or how to get it...
If you want to say a big heck yes to living the life of your dreams…This book is for you.
From discovering what lights you up, to exploring the fears and excuses that hold us back and how to move past them, Breaking Stop Holding Back, Start Being You is a heartfelt journey that will inspire women everywhere to go after what they want in their careers and in their lives without guilt, compromise or sacrifice.
In her book, Corporate Executive, Certified Coach and Keynote Speaker Shannon Talbot includes real-life stories from remarkable women—including Mabel’s Labels co-founder Julie Cole and former Second Cup CEO Stacey Mowbray—alongside practical, step-by-step tips and tools that will help readers call BS on the stories they tell themselves and learn to write new ones.
Sharing her own struggles with rejection, loss, anxiety and stress as she works to balance motherhood with ambition, Talbot shows women how they can pursue ambitious career goals while also prioritizing relationships and well-being. Through her book, readers will be guided to visualize their dreams, overcome obstacles, and break free of limiting beliefs, doubts and bad habits so they can create the life and career of their dreams.
-Seth Godin, author of The Song of Significance
If you feel stuck in your career or life. If you've been holding back at work or at home. If you feel something is missing but you're not sure what it is or how to get it...
If you want to say a big heck yes to living the life of your dreams…This book is for you.
From discovering what lights you up, to exploring the fears and excuses that hold us back and how to move past them, Breaking Stop Holding Back, Start Being You is a heartfelt journey that will inspire women everywhere to go after what they want in their careers and in their lives without guilt, compromise or sacrifice.
In her book, Corporate Executive, Certified Coach and Keynote Speaker Shannon Talbot includes real-life stories from remarkable women—including Mabel’s Labels co-founder Julie Cole and former Second Cup CEO Stacey Mowbray—alongside practical, step-by-step tips and tools that will help readers call BS on the stories they tell themselves and learn to write new ones.
Sharing her own struggles with rejection, loss, anxiety and stress as she works to balance motherhood with ambition, Talbot shows women how they can pursue ambitious career goals while also prioritizing relationships and well-being. Through her book, readers will be guided to visualize their dreams, overcome obstacles, and break free of limiting beliefs, doubts and bad habits so they can create the life and career of their dreams.
- GenresNonfiction
260 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 15, 2024
2 people are currently reading
11 people want to read
About the author
Shannon Talbot
2 books1 followerShannon Talbot is a Human Connection Expert and Workplace Well-Being Speaker dedicated to fostering trust, collaboration, and well-being in workplaces and beyond. With over 15 years of corporate leadership experience in financial services and advertising, Shannon’s work reflects her passion for building stronger connections that help individuals and teams thrive.
Her unique insights are informed by her MBA from the Schulich School of Business and expertise in transformational coaching, offering a blend of practical strategies and relatable stories. Shannon’s work has been featured on CBC Radio and in Today’s Parent, Chatelaine, LifeHack, and Thrive Global.
Shannon lives just outside of Toronto with her husband and two sons. Outside of her professional work, she loves exploring new destinations, singing karaoke, and finding joy in everyday moments.
Her unique insights are informed by her MBA from the Schulich School of Business and expertise in transformational coaching, offering a blend of practical strategies and relatable stories. Shannon’s work has been featured on CBC Radio and in Today’s Parent, Chatelaine, LifeHack, and Thrive Global.
Shannon lives just outside of Toronto with her husband and two sons. Outside of her professional work, she loves exploring new destinations, singing karaoke, and finding joy in everyday moments.
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
March 13, 2024
Have you ever read a book where you are constantly nodding your head in agreement and saying, “Yup, I’ve definitely felt that way before!” Well, I just did!
•
Shannon has absolute validated every feeling I’ve ever had about myself as a working mom. Her words have made me realize, “Man, I am enough and I am doing a heck of a great job! If people don’t realize that- their loss!” 🤣
•
Here are my top 5 quotes I absolutely love from her book:
What Lights Us Up: “It’s time to press delete on every negative thing you’ve ever heard of thought when it comes to chasing your dreams.” (Seriously- the whole chapter is a win!)
⭐️
The other F word: “What gifts of yours is the world missing out on when you let fear of failure hold you back?” (Yup… really think about this!)
⭐️
Bad Habits: “Not only is trying to be someone you’re not exhausting, but it’s also keeping the world from all your incredible gifts.” (Let that true personality shine everyone!!)
⭐️
Drive your own “darn” car: “Until you realize you are the only person in control of your life, you won’t fully commit to taking the steps required to create and live the life of your dreams.” (Stop people-pleasing and be honest, you know you’ve been there.)
⭐️
Quit the 3 P’s: “Own your fabulousness! Forget what others think about you and how you compare to them- it doesn’t matter. You were created unique for a reason and now is your time to shine.” (ALWAYS BE YOU!)
•
Shannon’s personal stories make this book truly authentic and a joy to read. She gets you to embrace your confidence and challenge your fears.
•
Thank you Book Publicity Services for sharing this copy with me. All views are my honest and unbiased opinions.
•
Shannon has absolute validated every feeling I’ve ever had about myself as a working mom. Her words have made me realize, “Man, I am enough and I am doing a heck of a great job! If people don’t realize that- their loss!” 🤣
•
Here are my top 5 quotes I absolutely love from her book:
What Lights Us Up: “It’s time to press delete on every negative thing you’ve ever heard of thought when it comes to chasing your dreams.” (Seriously- the whole chapter is a win!)
⭐️
The other F word: “What gifts of yours is the world missing out on when you let fear of failure hold you back?” (Yup… really think about this!)
⭐️
Bad Habits: “Not only is trying to be someone you’re not exhausting, but it’s also keeping the world from all your incredible gifts.” (Let that true personality shine everyone!!)
⭐️
Drive your own “darn” car: “Until you realize you are the only person in control of your life, you won’t fully commit to taking the steps required to create and live the life of your dreams.” (Stop people-pleasing and be honest, you know you’ve been there.)
⭐️
Quit the 3 P’s: “Own your fabulousness! Forget what others think about you and how you compare to them- it doesn’t matter. You were created unique for a reason and now is your time to shine.” (ALWAYS BE YOU!)
•
Shannon’s personal stories make this book truly authentic and a joy to read. She gets you to embrace your confidence and challenge your fears.
•
Thank you Book Publicity Services for sharing this copy with me. All views are my honest and unbiased opinions.
March 7, 2024
This book was an optimistic, upbeat guide to creating change that will fit right in with the rest of the “You Go, Girl” type help manuals. The author leans heavily into her own experiences and seems like a likable person and someone I could probably get along with in real life. She offers thought exercises and suggestions to help her readers explore themselves more deeply. However, the best part of the book, for me, were her almost off the cuff thoughts about creating more time and space for yourself within in a busy corporate setting. Her ideas about that felt practical and realistic, and I would have liked to read more from her about that.
July 3, 2024
The title captured my attention. I also wanted to see if this would be helpful for me, and those I work with, and have programs for such as "I See Her". I did find a couple quotes immediately when reading it to see how we can introduce them to the male group in "I See Her" support group. Furthermore, I am blessed the author responded quickly to my email request to see if she would like to be a featured guest, speaker, or coach to keep the men hopeful, and see transformative power in each one of them. New, and former members sprinkled in the group.
p12 or 17: "go back to the age and pretend you have the whole world ahead of you, where nothing is stopping you." A time where you had a 'clear vision' and knew you could dream without any worries. Therefore, I would like them to think of such, even with a significant other, or future being. Further on speaks on 10 dreams in 10 years to see how they are building in their relationship/s.
"Find someone who believes in you and the start of a new journey can propel you forward (28)." If not, keeping looking since they're out there. We are getting the men to be vulnerable last week and they are seeking someone who allows them to be such, also believes in their vision(s) and see them move forward in their transition(s).
" So many opportunities come down to the right time and right place with a little
bit of luck, so the best thing you can do is keep going. Start chalking
up those rejections as a sign that you’re on the right track and doing
the work. Pat yourself on the back for taking action, knowing you’re
getting closer to your goals and dreams every step you take (54)." This is what I am undergoing now, no need to be stressing but instead keep pressing to the mark--know that you are on the right path even if it may not feel like it. I am an empath, which is not easy to shake my emotions off.
I love her self-truths and experiences shared since I considered fertility procedures but after seeing how she spent up to 100K without success, yet she was blessed to adopt two sons. She borrowed and will have to pay back, no telling how long that will take. She did not explain the trial/error or emotional rollercoaster but enough for me to gather to not consider this option since I only saved up to $30K.
Invest--Risk--Outcome. Invest in your dreams--agree, speak a lot in my title "God is in the Equation" how to accomplish your goals and dreams in mathematical equations and biblical passages. Her book doesn't speak on faith, or biblical principles yet is practical and factual insight form her life, my girl Viola Davis, and others.
Repeated Fears--uncomfortable, anxiety driven situations.
Overcome our:
1. BS
2. Fears
3. Excuses
4. Beliefs
5. Bad Habits
We discussed some of these with my co/facilitators to help bring men into healthier relationships--like traumas (fears of the unknown or past), triggers, beliefs, habits, and/or excuses but love how she added BS since I hear a lot of that as fabricated excuses due to fears/traumas/triggers.
She also adds exercises to heal or overcome past behaviors/habits. Love beliefs-->thoughts-->actions-->results!
I created two lesson plans for the "I See Her" Groups to do in the future, and in hopes, she will be a part of these sessions.
Shannon shares this: "I also felt shame and embarrassment that my colleagues would wonder
what was wrong with me–how could someone who was “Acting Director” not get the role after three months? It was a blow to my self-confidence (134)." This reminds me of when I walked into my promotion, I prepared and prayed, and went through the process that took 3 months or so to start the actual position. However, the person I had to train with was bitter and unsure if it was because of shame/embarrassment after acting as for a year she claimed, not to get the position. She left 8 months later to work at my former job at the same place(s) I last worked for/area(s). This shocked me--back where I left and came from, now she works there. Hm.
Overall, I enjoyed this read and treasure the nuggets of wisdom, working power, and taking the activities and apply them in your own life--dreams into a reality is my motto. I have gleaned and gained 3 lesson plans for the support groups that I facilitate of no more than 3 pages each lesson! valuable insight to grow and become--no more BS. be the best version of you--and this book is the wakeup call to gear into it. Inspirational.
She has been a jewel in a rough place for our groups; God willing I may take this "I See Her" support group as a non-profit for those incarcerated to transform on the outside.
Adrienna Turner
Senior Librarian
Facilitator, Coordinator, Organizer of 4 groups, including "I See Her" and Book Clubs.
Author of "Unleashing the Spirits, v3" now in paperback, already in eBook versions.
p12 or 17: "go back to the age and pretend you have the whole world ahead of you, where nothing is stopping you." A time where you had a 'clear vision' and knew you could dream without any worries. Therefore, I would like them to think of such, even with a significant other, or future being. Further on speaks on 10 dreams in 10 years to see how they are building in their relationship/s.
"Find someone who believes in you and the start of a new journey can propel you forward (28)." If not, keeping looking since they're out there. We are getting the men to be vulnerable last week and they are seeking someone who allows them to be such, also believes in their vision(s) and see them move forward in their transition(s).
" So many opportunities come down to the right time and right place with a little
bit of luck, so the best thing you can do is keep going. Start chalking
up those rejections as a sign that you’re on the right track and doing
the work. Pat yourself on the back for taking action, knowing you’re
getting closer to your goals and dreams every step you take (54)." This is what I am undergoing now, no need to be stressing but instead keep pressing to the mark--know that you are on the right path even if it may not feel like it. I am an empath, which is not easy to shake my emotions off.
I love her self-truths and experiences shared since I considered fertility procedures but after seeing how she spent up to 100K without success, yet she was blessed to adopt two sons. She borrowed and will have to pay back, no telling how long that will take. She did not explain the trial/error or emotional rollercoaster but enough for me to gather to not consider this option since I only saved up to $30K.
Invest--Risk--Outcome. Invest in your dreams--agree, speak a lot in my title "God is in the Equation" how to accomplish your goals and dreams in mathematical equations and biblical passages. Her book doesn't speak on faith, or biblical principles yet is practical and factual insight form her life, my girl Viola Davis, and others.
Repeated Fears--uncomfortable, anxiety driven situations.
Overcome our:
1. BS
2. Fears
3. Excuses
4. Beliefs
5. Bad Habits
We discussed some of these with my co/facilitators to help bring men into healthier relationships--like traumas (fears of the unknown or past), triggers, beliefs, habits, and/or excuses but love how she added BS since I hear a lot of that as fabricated excuses due to fears/traumas/triggers.
She also adds exercises to heal or overcome past behaviors/habits. Love beliefs-->thoughts-->actions-->results!
I created two lesson plans for the "I See Her" Groups to do in the future, and in hopes, she will be a part of these sessions.
Shannon shares this: "I also felt shame and embarrassment that my colleagues would wonder
what was wrong with me–how could someone who was “Acting Director” not get the role after three months? It was a blow to my self-confidence (134)." This reminds me of when I walked into my promotion, I prepared and prayed, and went through the process that took 3 months or so to start the actual position. However, the person I had to train with was bitter and unsure if it was because of shame/embarrassment after acting as for a year she claimed, not to get the position. She left 8 months later to work at my former job at the same place(s) I last worked for/area(s). This shocked me--back where I left and came from, now she works there. Hm.
Overall, I enjoyed this read and treasure the nuggets of wisdom, working power, and taking the activities and apply them in your own life--dreams into a reality is my motto. I have gleaned and gained 3 lesson plans for the support groups that I facilitate of no more than 3 pages each lesson! valuable insight to grow and become--no more BS. be the best version of you--and this book is the wakeup call to gear into it. Inspirational.
She has been a jewel in a rough place for our groups; God willing I may take this "I See Her" support group as a non-profit for those incarcerated to transform on the outside.
Adrienna Turner
Senior Librarian
Facilitator, Coordinator, Organizer of 4 groups, including "I See Her" and Book Clubs.
Author of "Unleashing the Spirits, v3" now in paperback, already in eBook versions.
July 11, 2024
In the realm of self-discovery and personal transformation, "Breaking Free" by Shannon Talbot emerges as a beacon of hope and a powerful guide for every woman seeking a more fulfilling life. This book is not just another self-help read; it's a transformative experience that will ignite your inner fire and propel you toward your true potential.
Shannon Talbot, with her compassionate voice and deep understanding of the challenges women face, takes you on a journey of self-discovery. Through her step-by-step actionable steps, you'll confront your excuses, shatter limiting beliefs, and embrace the life you truly desire.
One of Shannon's brilliant exercises is identifying your "BS" - the excuses that have held you back for far too long. With her guidance, you'll uncover the root of your fears and doubts, empowering you to take the first steps toward breaking free.
But Shannon doesn't stop there. She takes you on a captivating adventure, reminding you of your innate creativity and helping you envision the life you desire ten years from now. This isn't just about setting goals; it's about unleashing your imagination and allowing yourself to dream without limits.
"Breaking Free" is more than a book; it's a catalyst for change. It's a call to action that will inspire you to shed the weight of societal expectations and embrace your authentic self. With Shannon as your guide, you'll embark on a transformative journey that will leave you feeling liberated, empowered, and ready to seize the life you deserve.
Don't wait another moment. Dive into the pages of "Breaking Free" and begin your journey of self-discovery and personal transformation today. It's time to break free from the life that no longer serves you and step into the extraordinary future that awaits you.
Carmen Hecox of Create The Best Me
Shannon Talbot, with her compassionate voice and deep understanding of the challenges women face, takes you on a journey of self-discovery. Through her step-by-step actionable steps, you'll confront your excuses, shatter limiting beliefs, and embrace the life you truly desire.
One of Shannon's brilliant exercises is identifying your "BS" - the excuses that have held you back for far too long. With her guidance, you'll uncover the root of your fears and doubts, empowering you to take the first steps toward breaking free.
But Shannon doesn't stop there. She takes you on a captivating adventure, reminding you of your innate creativity and helping you envision the life you desire ten years from now. This isn't just about setting goals; it's about unleashing your imagination and allowing yourself to dream without limits.
"Breaking Free" is more than a book; it's a catalyst for change. It's a call to action that will inspire you to shed the weight of societal expectations and embrace your authentic self. With Shannon as your guide, you'll embark on a transformative journey that will leave you feeling liberated, empowered, and ready to seize the life you deserve.
Don't wait another moment. Dive into the pages of "Breaking Free" and begin your journey of self-discovery and personal transformation today. It's time to break free from the life that no longer serves you and step into the extraordinary future that awaits you.
Carmen Hecox of Create The Best Me
March 19, 2024
This book is an empowering guide that not only encourages readers to pursue their dreams but provides tangible tools to do so. Talbot's inclusion of insightful exercises fosters deep reflection, and helps you uncover your true desires and take actionable steps towards achieving them.
What sets this book apart is Talbot's candidness, as she vulnerably shares personal stories, making the journey towards self-discovery feel relatable and attainable. Moreover, the sections addressing common excuses and bad habits offer invaluable insights, equipping you with the knowledge to overcome obstacles standing in the way of your success. The book is a source of inspiration for anyone seeking to break free from limitations and create a fulfilling career and life.
What sets this book apart is Talbot's candidness, as she vulnerably shares personal stories, making the journey towards self-discovery feel relatable and attainable. Moreover, the sections addressing common excuses and bad habits offer invaluable insights, equipping you with the knowledge to overcome obstacles standing in the way of your success. The book is a source of inspiration for anyone seeking to break free from limitations and create a fulfilling career and life.
May 26, 2025
I didn't "finish" this book, because this isn't the type of book you read cover to cover. (Well, we moved and I set it down.) It's not a novel, but a collection of tips for career-driven women making big moves. Specific chapters will fit your life, but others may not, depending on where you are in your career. But even if you're in a coasting part of your career, there are so many great tips everyone can take away, such as bad habits we are making and need to break free from, and how to set your priorities and ask for what you want.
June 4, 2024
Breaking Free by Shannon Talbot is an easy to read book about figuring out who you are and how to get where you want to be in this world. It’s grounded in a lot of personal stories which can be hit or miss - it will feel overly lengthy and fluffy if you are someone who prefers to get right to the point, or personal and relateable if you like storytelling. It’s respectful, welcoming, well written and understanding.
May 8, 2024
Got this as a gift from my sister. It's another 'wish it, want it and you'll achieve it' type of book.
Not much help for those of us with bills to pay and mouths to feed.
Not much help for those of us with bills to pay and mouths to feed.
November 11, 2025
It is admirable that the author completed a book and I think there was good advice in here. I just don’t know that it needed to be delivered in book format.
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews