Are you too hard on yourself? Do you create debilitating mental habits? Is success linked to happiness? If you said yes to any of these questions, then it’s time to shape pain into power and failure into a fortune. How? By being authentic, tapping into your vulnerabilities, and making big strides with small steps! Professionals are often misguided when it comes to the connection between success and happiness. Gi Gi O’Brien, CEO at Global Intelligence Initiative, author of The Self Quarantine Handbook, The Trauma Handbook, and The Intelligence of Happiness as well as the Founder of 111 Entertainment and Nathazelis, says that nothing should ever come at the expense of happiness. Not for your job, not for your clients, not anyone.  Drawing from mental health struggles and her fusion of skills in journalism, business, and various sciences, Gi Gi thrives as a consultant, social entrepreneur, and visionary. In this episode of Lisa Buyer’s Social PR Secrets podcast, Gi Gi O’Brien discusses her new book, The Intelligence of Happiness: How to Thrive Using Authenticity, Self-Alignment, and Simple Neuropsychology, how to apply the five C’s to your personal and business life and the best ways to eliminate imposter syndrome.  How the Worst Life Moments Became Gi Gi’s Biggest Assets While sitting in a hospital bed after a severe mental breakdown, Gi Gi transcended her suffering. She tapped into many years of emotional neglect and made the ultimate promise: to live a life of authenticity, ambition, and happiness.  Years later, during the COVID-19 lockdown, similar darkness seeped into her space once more, where feelings of shame and pain served as catalysts to continue writing her book.  The Intelligence of Happiness ensures a more abundant life. It opens doors to new opportunities, re-instills confidence, and unlocks brilliance. Gi Gi is an expert in turning pain into power. Her decades-long mental health and entrepreneurial journey have ultimately led to a deeper understanding of true happiness. And by applying the principles of neuropsychology to the art of authenticity as well as aligning your emotions, thoughts, beliefs, and behavior, you can master it, too. The Power of Networking Big breaks don’t magically fall into laps, no matter how hard we wish they did. Really, it takes a lot of persistence, networking, and authenticity to achieve any goal. Gi Gi says that connecting with others brings her the utmost joy. By joining Facebook groups, creating social media accounts, and putting yourself out there, you will establish genuine and substantial lifelong bonds. But it’s not just about gaining an endorsement. It’s about adding value to your life and theirs.  If you look at the inside cover of her book, you’ll find incredible testimonials, including one from Nelson Mandel’s grandson. How did this happen? Through the power of confidence, influence, and passion. If you simply sit back, the greatest of opportunities will end up passing you by. And if you’re looking for motivation, reliance on o