In the ever-evolving world of business, intuitive action can be an invaluable asset, guiding leaders through uncertainty and complexity. Missy Kelly, the Co-Founder and CEO of CatTongue Grips, exemplifies how embracing intuition can lead to remarkable achievements. From pioneering non-slip solutions to mentoring entrepreneurs, Missy’s journey demonstrates the power of trusting one’s inner voice. 

From a Surreal Experience to a Guiding Principle

Missy Kelly’s connection to her intuition was catalyzed by a life-altering experience at the age of 17. While shopping for a Father’s Day gift at Robinsons Department Store, she unexpectedly heard a voice in her head saying, “RUN!” Acting on instinct, she ran. Seconds later, a 1,000-square-foot section of the overhang, including the store sign, had collapsed, missing her by mere feet and nearly crushing her with 1.5 tons of concrete and debris. 

This near-death experience was life-altering and was the first time Missy became aware of a higher power. She reflected, “I was given an opportunity to truly live and take the reins of my own life.”

The Path to Purpose: Overcoming Perfectionism to Create a Life of Impact

After this eye-opening encounter at Robinson’s, Missy’s path to harnessing intuition in business was far from linear. Faced with the daunting task of charting her career post-college, Missy found herself at a crossroads, yearning to make a meaningful impact but unsure of the right direction to take. As a young woman, she didn’t yet know how to connect deeply to her inner voice, struggling with perfectionism and external pressures of what she “should” do to be successful. After a summer internship at a law firm, she abandoned the idea of law school and took a sales job to pay the bills. Around this time, her father said something she never forgot: “Most people work so that they can live, Missy. They do not live to work.” Missy knew she wasn’t destined to work to live and felt determined to build a life of purpose and impact. 

Bridging the Gap: Missy’s Journey Towards Self-Trust and Intuition

Missy’s path to intuitive leadership required a profound mindset shift, and she confronted feelings of unworthiness and perfectionism head-on. At age 36, she attended her first spiritual retreat in Tucson, Arizona, which was a life-changing, healing experience. Missy revealed, “I learned to appreciate all my dimensions—the light, the dark, and the imperfect.” This poignant revelation marked a turning point in her journey, allowing her to embrace vulnerability and rekindle her connection with her intuition. Missy discovered a newfound capacity to trust her instincts, paving the way for authentic leadership rooted in self-acceptance and resilience.

Intuitive Action in Business: The Evolution of CatTongue Grips

At the heart of Missy Kelly’s entrepreneurial journey is CatTongue Grips, a pioneering business she co-founded with her husband Matt. The company started at a serendipitous moment in 2015, when a simple observation at a phone store sparked a revolutionary idea to create a non-slip, non-abrasive grip material. Since then, CatTongue Grips has become a global leader in a diverse range of industries, with 10 product types, over 200 SKUs, and retail partners in the United States, South America, the United Kingdom, and Australia.

Missy’s entrepreneurial journey demonstrates how intuitive action can drive business success. Driven by a chance encounter with Paralympian Chris Waddell, who recognized the life-changing potential of their signature Gription Roll to prevent essential items from slipping out of grasp in a wheelchair, Missy’s vision expanded beyond commercial success to a vehicle of purpose and impact. “I trusted my intuition and allowed it to guide me toward solutions that resonate deeply with my values and vision,” she shared. In this way, Missy broke through entrepreneurial barriers and rose to a greater domain of innovative, visionary leadership. Her ability to trust herself created trust in her team and allowed her to prioritize her family, self-care, and well-being while growing her company. 

Empowering Others Through Intuitive Leadership

Missy’s success is a direct result of her mindset and leadership philosophy. “Leadership is not just a title or a position—it’s about motivating others to be the best they can be,” she explains. This belief in empowering and inspiring others is evident in her roles beyond CatTongue Grips, as a mentor for entrepreneurs with organizations like WBENC and facilitating mastermind groups for Pinnacle Global Network.

Furthermore, Missy believes a cornerstone of intuitive action is learning to balance feminine and masculine energies. “I believe in women supporting each other in business, acknowledging the unique power of intuition and creativity that may sometimes be undervalued in a traditionally male-dominated environment,” Missy notes. This balance has enabled her to harmonize inspiration with logical analysis, driving innovation and success. 

These skills have allowed Missy to navigate the ups and downs of entrepreneurship with perseverance and resilience. Despite facing challenges and biases as a female entrepreneur, she has stayed true to her vision. As a result, Missy is truly inspired by her work and the way her company is changing lives. Her unshakeable trust in herself makes her an extraordinary role model for other women and allows her to contribute to a more inclusive and equitable future for all.

Missy Kelly’s Legacy in Entrepreneurship and Beyond

In conclusion, Missy Kelly’s journey with CatTongue grips illustrates the transformative power of intuitive action in business and leadership. By trusting her inner guidance, she has navigated challenges, inspired others, and achieved remarkable success. Missy’s story is a testament to the enduring impact of intuition, resilience, and empowering leadership in today’s dynamic business landscape.

Published By: Aize Perez