Claire Painter
What makes Claire Wildly Capable?
“While her titles and accomplishments are vast, Claire is always putting others first, reflecting that when you invest in the people and communities around you, they are changed for the better. She is a world changer through the work she does and the love she shares!” KATHERINE KOCH
What makes you feel proud?
I feel the proudest when those I love succeed. I don’t just mean career success, but overall accomplishments in life or growth. Recent examples include my niece taking her first steps after extensive physical therapy, my husband winning a much-deserved exceptional performance award, multiple dear friends having children and showing so much grace and empathy throughout their motherhood journeys and one of my students realizing a long-term friendship was not good for their mental health and making the choice to cut things off. I love my people and nothing makes me prouder than seeing them happy and succeeding in small and large things.
One year from today, how do you hope you’re different?
I hope a year from now that I’m better at granting myself the same kindness I so easily give to others. The saying “you are your own worst critic” is so true for me. I am so much better at loving myself than I used to be, but I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t still something I struggle with at different points in time.
Who is the biggest influence in your life? Why?
My granddad Jack. He passed away a few months ago and I miss him every day. He was such a rare person in all of the best ways. He taught me what it looks like to love without limits, to accept what we cannot change, to practice gratitude and how to not take myself too seriously. He made the best waffles (no contest) and made everyone around him feel seen and accepted no matter their story. He taught us all what true love for the Lord looks like. He was the ultimate writer, storyteller, and supporter. So many of my best attributes are due in large part to his influence on my life. He was the true definition of a leader in every sense of the word and I hope to one day be half of the exceptional person that he was.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” -Maya Angelou
