Unlocking True Fulfillment: How Lori McDowell Empowers High Achievers to Invest in Themselves and Thrive

In today’s fast-paced world, the concept of self-investment can often feel like an afterthought, buried under responsibilities and obligations. Lori McDowell, a former chemical engineer turned life coach and motivational speaker, knows firsthand the transformative power of prioritizing one’s own well-being. After a successful three-decade career in corporate America, Lori made a bold pivot, dedicating her life to helping others discover their true purpose and joy. Through her coaching, workshops, and speaking engagements, Lori empowers high achievers to create lives that are not only successful on paper but deeply fulfilling.

In this interview, Lori shares practical strategies for self-investment, offering insights into everything from mindfulness practices and gratitude journaling to the life-changing value of mentorship and coaching. She reminds us that investing in ourselves is not a selfish act but an essential step toward reaching our full potential. Her approach to personal growth is rooted in genuine connection, resilience, and a mindset that celebrates both the journey and the destination. Read on to discover how to cultivate a life aligned with your true purpose, guided by Lori’s expert advice and passion for helping others thrive.

Thank you so much for joining us, Lori! Our readers would love to get to know you a bit better. Can you tell us a bit about your backstory?

Absolutely, Stacey, and thank you for having me! My journey has taken me through some fascinating twists and turns. I began my career as a chemical engineer, eventually earning my Ph.D. and spending over three decades working in corporate America. While that career brought me success and fulfillment on the surface, over time, I sensed a deeper calling—a drive to explore a purpose that would allow me to help others in a more personal and transformative way. I wanted to make a tangible difference beyond just career success. That calling eventually led me into coaching and public speaking, where I could connect with people on a deeper level and guide them toward a life that feels true to who they are. Now, I work with high achievers—especially women—to help them find joy and purpose and create lives that align with their innermost values.

That’s amazing! You talk a lot about “investing in yourself.” What does that mean to you?

Investing in yourself is a powerful and multidimensional concept. It’s more than just attending a few workshops or reading self-help books. It’s about truly prioritizing your own well-being, growth, and dreams and understanding that you are worthy of time, attention, and development. This kind of investment can take many forms. First, there’s the internal side, which includes nurturing your mental and physical health, setting time aside for self-care, and building routines that support a healthy mind, body, and soul. It’s about practices like mindfulness, gratitude, or just giving yourself permission to rest. The other aspect is external support—this is where guidance from others, like a coach or mentor, becomes invaluable. A coach can see your potential clearly and help you tap into it by showing you a path you may not even realize is there. Both types of investment create a foundation for profound personal growth and make you a better partner, friend, and leader in all areas of your life.

I think many people struggle with self-care. There’s often guilt around taking time for oneself. Why do you think that is?

Guilt around self-care is incredibly common, especially in our fast-paced society that glorifies productivity and multitasking. Many people, particularly caregivers, and high achievers feel that they must put everyone else first and that self-care is somehow a selfish act. This mindset can leave people running on empty. It’s as if we’re taught that our worth is measured by how much we give to others rather than recognizing that taking time for ourselves allows us to give more fully. But self-care is essential; it’s the fuel that keeps us going. When we prioritize our well-being, we recharge our energy and build resilience, making us far better equipped to be present and supportive of those we care about. By reframing self-care as a necessary act of love—for ourselves and for those we serve—we begin to see it as vital, not indulgent.

What are some simple ways people can begin that journey of investing in themselves?

Starting small can make a big impact. Even dedicating 10 to 15 minutes each morning to mindfulness practice can create a huge shift over time. I encourage clients to start with meditation, breathwork, or just sitting quietly to reflect. This sets a calming and intentional tone for the day. Another powerful practice is keeping a gratitude journal. By listing three things you’re grateful for each day and aiming for new items each time, you gradually train your brain to focus on the positives. These practices may only take a few minutes, but they help create a more positive, focused, and calm mindset that serves as a foundation for everything else. Over time, as you build these habits, you’ll find that they have a compounding effect, shifting your entire outlook.

That’s wonderful advice. And I’d love to dive into the idea of having a coach. How can a coach impact someone’s growth journey?

A coach can be an incredible catalyst for change. It’s like having a dedicated partner whose sole focus is on helping you grow and reach your goals. A coach brings an objective perspective and can point out strengths, blind spots, or limiting beliefs that you might not see on your own. Friends and family may want to be supportive, but they often won’t challenge you in the same way a coach will. Coaches provide honest feedback, accountability, and guidance, all of which can be invaluable for personal growth. Working with a coach means you’re dedicating time and energy to self-improvement and progress, and that partnership often allows you to accomplish in months what might otherwise take years. They’re there to push you out of your comfort zone and inspire you to reach new heights in ways you might not even imagine possible.

That makes so much sense. What if someone doesn’t have a supportive network around them?

If you find yourself without a supportive network, it can be challenging, but the good news is you can intentionally create one. I often say that if the people around you aren’t supporting you, then you don’t have a circle—you have a cage. We’re deeply influenced by the people we surround ourselves with, so it’s essential to have individuals in your life who encourage your growth, cheer on your wins, and hold space for your dreams. Start by seeking out like-minded people who share your values and ambitions. This might mean joining groups, attending events, or even exploring online communities. It doesn’t mean you have to completely cut ties with people who don’t share your path, but you can choose to invest more time in relationships that help you grow.

How can people recognize if they’re stuck in routines or old habits that aren’t serving them?

The first step to breaking free from old habits is awareness. So much of our behavior is automatic; in fact, studies show that over 90% of what we do is habitual, driven by our subconscious. If we don’t regularly check in with ourselves, it’s easy to stay in routines that don’t serve our current goals. One way to recognize this is by examining how you feel about certain behaviors or patterns. Are there areas where you feel stuck, unfulfilled, or drained? Start noticing your actions and responses, especially in situations that tend to trigger stress or frustration. Once you’ve identified those patterns, you can take conscious steps to replace them with choices that align more closely with your aspirations.

It’s so easy to fall into that autopilot mode. Can you share a few tips for overcoming negative self-talk?

Negative self-talk is a significant roadblock for many, but there are ways to work through it. Positive affirmations are one powerful tool for shifting this inner dialogue. When you repeat affirmations like, “I am capable” or “I am enough,” you’re essentially reprogramming your mind to embrace a supportive, nurturing perspective. Another effective approach is to catch yourself in moments of negative self-talk and challenge those thoughts. Ask yourself if these thoughts are true or if they’re just old beliefs that no longer serve you. As you become more aware, you’ll find it easier to replace negative thoughts with positive ones, creating a mental environment where you can thrive.

How does journaling support someone on their personal growth journey?

Journaling is one of the most powerful tools for personal reflection and growth. By putting your thoughts on paper, you’re moving ideas from your subconscious into your conscious mind, allowing you to see them clearly. This practice gives you space to process emotions, gain clarity on your goals, and track your progress over time. It’s also a way to celebrate your wins and reflect on your challenges, both of which are essential to growth. For me, journaling has been instrumental in reinforcing positive changes, allowing me to identify patterns, and deepening my understanding of myself.

I love that. You mentioned that you have multiple coaches. How do you recommend people choose the right coach for themselves?

Choosing a coach is about finding the right chemistry and alignment with someone who resonates with your goals. Trust is vital—you want to work with someone you feel safe with and who inspires you. Each coach brings unique insights, so depending on what you’re seeking, you may want a coach specializing in career, wellness, or mindset, for example. I have multiple coaches for different areas because they each bring something valuable to the table. The right coach will encourage you, challenge you, and give you the tools and courage to step outside your comfort zone and achieve things you may not have thought possible.

Let’s talk about lifelong learning. Why is continuous learning so important?

Continuous learning is essential for personal evolution. It keeps us curious, adaptable, and constantly evolving, which is especially important in today’s fast-paced world. Learning expands our perspectives, helps us stay relevant, and enables us to adapt to new challenges. I encourage people to set aside time each week for learning, whether it’s through reading, listening to podcasts, or taking courses. By committing to growth, we stay open to new opportunities and enrich our lives. It’s one of the most valuable habits anyone can develop.

I couldn’t agree more. Can you explain the role gratitude plays in all of this?

Gratitude is a transformative practice. When we focus on what we’re grateful for, we shift our perspective from what’s lacking to what’s abundant. This mindset change elevates our mood, builds resilience, and helps us handle challenges with more positivity. Practicing gratitude doesn’t just make us feel good in the moment—it reshapes our entire approach to life. By consistently acknowledging the positives, we cultivate a more hopeful, optimistic outlook, which is essential for both personal and professional success.

I’d love to hear more about your book, The Reinvention Mindset. What inspired you to write it?

The Reinvention Mindset was inspired by the incredible resilience I’ve seen in people who have faced life’s toughest challenges and transformed them into something meaningful. These stories captivated me, and I wanted to explore what enables certain individuals to reinvent their lives in the face of adversity. The book shares their stories and provides readers with practical strategies for creating their own transformation. It’s a guide for anyone ready to make a change but isn’t sure where to start. I wrote it to show people that it’s never too late to reinvent yourself.

Where can our readers find your book?

It’s available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble, and you can also find it through my website, TheReinventionMindset.com. My goal was to make it accessible to as many people as possible because I genuinely believe in the transformative power of these insights and the impact they can have on anyone’s life.

Could you share more about the workshops you offer?

Of course! I run a one-day workshop called “Purpose, Power, and Play,” which is designed to help people reconnect with their purpose, find their inner strength, and bring more joy into their lives. The workshop is a hands-on experience filled with exercises that encourage deep reflection, exploration, and discovery. Participants gain clarity on what truly matters to them and learn practical tools for aligning their lives around those values. These workshops are held both online and in-person in Houston, so they’re accessible no matter where you are.

That sounds amazing. What can attendees expect to take away from the workshop?

Attendees can expect to leave with a clear sense of purpose and practical tools to help them integrate that purpose into their daily lives. The workshop helps people reconnect with their passions and learn how to incorporate joy into their routines. Meeting like-minded individuals in a supportive environment is another huge benefit—it’s inspiring to be surrounded by people who are also committed to personal growth.

I understand that you also do speaking engagements. What topics do you typically cover?

Yes, I’m passionate about helping others believe in themselves and pursue the life they desire. I speak on topics like resilience, mindset, and the limitless potential that lies within each of us. I share insights on how to overcome limiting beliefs, trust ourselves, and tap into our true potential. My talks are designed to empower audiences to see beyond their perceived limitations and start creating lives they love. I speak at summits, conferences, and other events where people are eager to make a positive change.

You have an assessment tool on your website as well. How does it work?

The assessment is a quick five-minute tool called “Celebrate Soul Success.” It’s designed to help individuals evaluate their current status across key areas of life, like career, relationships, and health. By understanding where you are today, it becomes easier to identify areas where you might want to focus your growth efforts. It’s an effective starting point for anyone looking to make improvements in a targeted way.

For many, the idea of investing in themselves can be intimidating. What’s the biggest barrier you see?

Fear is one of the biggest barriers—fear of change, fear of failure, and sometimes even fear of success. It’s completely normal to feel hesitant when considering self-investment because it requires vulnerability and a willingness to step into the unknown. But the rewards are incredible. Investing in yourself is a declaration of your worth and potential, and it opens up new doors and possibilities you might not have considered. The best investment you can make is always in yourself.

For those who may be hesitant, what would you say to encourage them to try coaching?

I would encourage them to think about their goals and consider how much they could benefit from focused support. A coach can help them clarify what they truly want, navigate roadblocks, and create a clear path to their goals. It’s about having a partner dedicated to your growth, someone who is there to hold you accountable and help you achieve your dreams. Coaching is transformative, especially for those feeling stuck or unsure of the next steps.

If you had to pick one daily habit for personal growth, what would it be?

Mindfulness is foundational. A few minutes of mindfulness each day can ground you, reduce stress, and create a space for reflection. Whether through meditation, breathwork, or quiet time, this practice keeps you connected to your inner self, making it easier to approach each day with intention and awareness. It’s a small habit with big returns.

Finally, how can our readers further follow your work online?

You can explore more of my work and resources on my website at reimagineyou.net, where I share insights, blog articles, and information about upcoming workshops designed to support personal growth and fulfillment. If you’d like to connect directly, feel free to reach out via email at [email protected]. For those ready to take the next step, you can book a personalized consultation at booklori.com. Whether you’re just beginning your journey or seeking guidance to elevate your life to new levels, I’d love to help you reimagine what’s possible!

Thank you so much for sharing your insights with us today, Lori. It’s been truly inspiring to hear about the work you do and the positive impact it has on people’s lives.

Lori McDowell is a passionate life coach, speaker, and founder of Reimagine You, dedicated to helping individuals transform their lives by reconnecting with their purpose and potential. With over 30 years of experience in corporate America as a chemical engineer, Lori brings a unique blend of analytical insight and heartfelt guidance to her coaching. Through her workshops, speaking engagements, and one-on-one sessions, she empowers clients to break through self-limiting beliefs and build fulfilling, purpose-driven lives. To learn more about Lori’s work, visit reimagineyou.net.