For as long as I can remember, I’ve been writing. I have more than 35 years worth of writings, including “poetic stories” as named by my dear friend Tamara Thomas. They look like poems and read like stories. I write about all that makes us human: loss, rejection, regret, healing, and deep love. One of my life-long dreams has been to publicly share my writing.

I’m so thrilled to say that – after many years of planning, some apprehension, and a whole lot of passion – I’m now doing this! I just launched a new website at www.shellymcnamara.com.

A big part of who I am is a storyteller. I also have the privilege and platform of working as an HR executive at a great company. My motivation is to open hearts and minds through storytelling. My stories are personal to me and my life, but the lessons are universal.

We have people all around us who have been made to feel “less than.” I believe we have an obligation as leaders to reach out to them. To value, respect, and include.

It begins with understanding. When people sit along the edges, we miss the gifts of wisdom and insight they offer. We miss relationships. We miss the opportunity to connect as human beings. We miss the impact they can have on our organizations and communities.

We rely on our diversity to drive innovation. The emotion of “empathy” is a precursor to all innovation, as well as the bridge to true relationships.

I welcome you, my friends and colleagues, to read more on my website and share your feedback with me. And if you feel so inspired, I would love for you to follow me and share my writings on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

I’m on a journey to open hearts and minds, and I’d love for you to join me on that journey.