As I sat down in the York College of Pennsylvania recital hall, I was unsure of what to expect from “Auntie” Anne Beiler. At the time, all I knew of her was that she had developed what I consider to be the perfect shopping mall snack.
But as she began her presentation entitled “Twist of Fate,” I discovered her story involved much more than a pretzel. Anne was fully engaging, and she proposed some serious, funny and thought-provoking subjects that were relevant to all business professionals at any stage in their career.
The development of Auntie Anne’s Inc. began on a difficult path, and we all certainly can relate to facing obstacles and challenges. One of Anne’s daughters passed away at only 19 months old, which drove a deep divide between her and her husband. She faced major depression. And yet, Anne stood before me in the recital hall a successful, joyous woman.
I was puzzled—how did she succeed through such tragedy?
“All things are possible, but it depends on how you think.” – Anne Beiler, founder of Auntie Anne’s Inc.
“Purpose will give you the power to overcome any obstacle,” Anne said. With purpose, you are not a “ho-hum” person. With purpose, your passion grows and you become a positive influence among your peers. I couldn’t believe my ears. Here I was, anticipating a quick story about a pretzel. Instead, Anne was presenting me with some really inspiring life lessons!
At one point, Anne said, “We can become cynical, rather than become successful... If you’re not careful, you start whining and complaining, and that’s where you get stuck.” Anne’s message encouraged us all to push forward in our fields—regardless of whether we were recent college grads or experienced business professionals—and to be passionate about whatever we do and to genuinely care about each other.
“Auntie” Anne Beiler is proof that true success grows from purpose and passion. Her pretzels have led her down a path she never anticipated, and now those pretzels are inspiring others to go out and be successful, too. I’m passionate about writing and travel. What are you passionate about? Is it a company, or maybe a profession? Anne has demonstrated what is possible when you direct purpose and passion. What direction will it take you?
What can you do with a pretzel?
Erin Donovan, Spring 2013 Susquehanna Style intern, Millersville University
