M: Now the challenging questions: How do you think a woman can successfully balance her career and personal life?

L: Women have so much to offer, we are so intuitive and so capable. Key is finding the balance by being present in the moment. We miss so many opportunities around us by looking way too much in the past and way too much into the future.

M: What's the most important thing to remember when it comes to your personal life?

L:  There's one of me. Balancing and reminding myself of my responsibilities . Replenishing ourselves is so important. We are on stage all the time playing so many different roles, and we play all of it very well. Being able to be present and not worry about other things for that hour that I am with my daughter. Being fully engaged in what's in front of us.

M: How do you see your leadership style?

L:  I often get asked this question and I think the best way I can describe it is "Tom Sawyer."  He was able to get the neighborhood kids to paint his fence! Now that's a talent.  The only difference is I stay and paint as well; I try to lead by example. 

M: Do you have any messages for Iranian-American women?

L: Find what you love, go after it, and don't give up. Every time you encounter an obstacle, take a step back and ask yourself, "What is the lesson in this for me?" It's much easier said than done, but definitely has helped me personally get over many hurdles. Don't give up. Just think of your effort, push forward, and believe in whatever it is that you are doing.

 

M: If you could start over and do it all over again in your career, what would have been your favorite job? 

L: My daughter always asks that question! She says, "Well, if you had to do it all over, would you do it differently?" The answer is no. I would stay true to what I'm doing today, I love working with people. We live in a world of influence, and as a leader you are continually influencing.