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Sarah Kalmeta has used the experiences she gained from making changes to her life to help others improve theirs.
What’s your story?
I’ve faced three career pivots in my life. From professional aspirations in figure skating, to corporate aviation to being a dual entrepreneur I truly earned the moniker “Sarah the Pivoter”. I’ve lived and worked in four different countries with the majority of my time spent in Asia – Singapore, mainland China, and now Hong Kong for the last 12 years. After traveling 90% of my time and “having it all” I finally hit a wall and imploded. I now focus on the other side of high performance and help others to live more integrated lives.
What excites you most about your industry?
The most exciting thing is the opening up and acceptance of health and mental wellbeing as a crucial part of being successful and living a successful life. The willingness of people to bring awareness to live more simply and consciously in ways that honour WHO they are and how they can help others, and not only what they do or how much money they make. Coaching is an intensely personal journey; people are starting to approach it as an enhancing component of their lives, rather than seeking it when things have “broken”.
What drives you in business to push beyond what other people consider normal?
I am curious and have a deep desire to learn. I grew up with an entrepreneurial mother, and that energy has proven contagious. When I’m passionate about something, I go after it with with focus, dedication and healthy boundaries so that my energy is sustainable.
My personal mission is to inspire others to be the best version of themselves. The thought that out there, somewhere, there is another person whose life is altered by something I have shared and knowing I CAN make a difference in another’s life in small, yet monumental ways motivates me to persevere.
What have been the most useful skills you have learnt and applied in your journey?
Self-compassion, empathy and the ability to “grow with the flow”. Instead of trying to control the outcome, I have learned to reframe, shift my perspective and view each situation as a learning opportunity. Learning self-compassion has allowed me to let go of the “should haves” and act from a more authentic position rather than doing things solely for external validation. Empathy has been crucial in connecting with others, both professionally and personally.
What’s the best piece of advice you ever received?
There is no need to water what you don’t want to grow. If it no longer serves you, let it go.
Who inspires you?
Anyone who is unafraid of living in their truth, even if it is unpopular or doesn’t fit “the norm”.
What have you learnt recently that blew you away?
That platypuses are biofluorescent, meaning their fur glows a bluish-green hue under ultraviolet (UV) light!
If you had your time again, what would you do differently?
This is a tricky question, as if I had done anything differently, I wouldn’t be who I am today. However, I would have worried less about what other people thought of me, trusted myself more and been more present.
How do you unwind?
I put on a playlist, (Nihls Frahm is often one of them), make a cup of tea and settle in with a book. Sometimes I journal to process the day, and when I have time I draw a bath with magnesium salts and essential oils!
What is a major mindset change, belief shift or ‘ah ha’ moment that you’ve experienced in relation to your business?
1) Major aha moment – there is always “one more thing” to do. Setting healthy boundaries to shut down and unwind is important so I can be my most creative, present and best self for the next day.
2) Belief shift – that I don’t need to do it all myself and it is OK to let others know I need help, including in growing my business and getting my name out there.
Everyone in business should read this book:
Crucial Conversations by Paterson et al – I recommend this to everyone! Not only does it teach you about communication in the workplace, but it also helps to shift your perspective and understanding in a way that benefits your personal relationships as well.
Shameless plug for your business:
I help people navigate life’s changes; the work I do around emotional mastery, healthy boundaries and communication are important aspects to not only being a stronger professional (or student), but also a better human. I bring awareness into the equation to empower people to make conscious decisions in their lives with confidence and conviction.
I offer 1-1 coaching, corporate workshops and educational outreach to help others to live more authentically, manage their energy and build courage to ask for help with compassion and science backed tools, such as breath work, mindfulness and Reiki.
How can people connect with you?
Check out www.sarahkalmeta.com, email me at info@sarahkalmeta.com or give me a ring at +852 5740 4132.
Social Media Links?
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-kalmeta/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahthepivoter/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pivotpointhongkong
This interview is part of the CallumConnects series.
