Can you tell us what type of business you run and how long you've been operating this business? 

I’m running an online health coaching program, “LEAN with L.E.S.S” dedicated to helping overwhelmed female expats reach their fitness goals by doing less, so they have more time & energy to thrive abroad! My principle in life and in helping my clients is simplicity. Leonardo Da Vinci said that simplicity is the ultimate sophistication, and I couldn’t agree more.

I have been in business for less than 1 year. 

I started my fitness journey 6-7 years ago, wanting to lose weight. I was hooked immediately with strength training, not only my body composition is improving, but my mood and energy level are increasing. People noticed the change and I started to get questions about fitness. A year ago, I had a mental breakdown that impacted my health. The doctor gave me the ultimatum to drop whatever work I was doing or ‘else’...

During my recovery, I found myself more and more every day. I worked with coaches and spiritual teachers. I decided that my breakdown won’t stop me. So,  I immersed myself in doing the most thing that I love: learning and fitness. I pursue personal training certification. Since then, I also graduated from health coaching study & life coaching training and worked with international men & women from all over the globe. You can say what got me to the industry is my breakdown.

The breakdown brings my BREAKTHROUGH.

The challenge is running a business in a country where I am not a citizen or speak the language yet. I’m based in Germany at the moment &, I’m planning to move to Switzerland in 2022. About me, I was born in Indonesia and moved to Europe/The Netherlands in 2014 to pursue my Master study. The bureaucracy can be frustrating sometimes since everything is in German. So, I delegate the legality aspect of my business through a consultant. 

The other (fun) challenge is that I offer my service in English, which is not my native language, and work primarily with non-native English speakers. Sometimes, we both lost in translation haha. But, it is rewarding when you are able to overcome the ‘differences’ and connect in the deeper level. I used to think that my accent may hinder my success as an expat entrepreneur, but now I embrace it - it is what makes me ME.

I’m also still working 9-5 which doesn’t allow me a greater flexibility on the timing. But, with a consistent time-blocking/planning on your priorities, it is still possible to run my coaching here in Germany.

I enjoy the nature of being surrounded by people from different cultures. You can learn so much about yourself and literally from people in front of you. It is incredible to still connect with people who look different from you, talk in another language, and have a different outlook. There are no dull moments. Ultimately you learn that connection is all about authenticity. You show up as your TRUE self, and people are attracted to that.

How important is it to dream big and believe you can accomplish what you desire?

The big dream is the ultimate foundation that fuels me in taking action. Without a big dream, I would already throw a towel months ago when hitting roadblocks. For me, the entrepreneurial journey is the unknown journey. There is no ‘safety net’ nor paycheck at the end of the month. The uncertainties can be overwhelmed, especially when you are just starting. BUT, beyond the hurdles and uncertainties - what would be available for me after overcoming the hardship is worth striving for! Therefore, it is crucial to always anchor yourself with your WHY - your big dream. 

After that, you need to honestly BELIEVE that whatever goals you have in mind are AVAILABLE & POSSIBLE for you. You may have no idea yet how to get there yet, but as long as you have the unshakable WHY, you will find your way. 

I know from our previous talk that you work primarily with women. What made you want to inspire female expats and give them hope?

I think as a female, it is in our DNA to look after others before ourselves. However, when living abroad and establishing a new life, life can be chaotic and unpredictable. As an expat, you don’t always put your need and your health as no.1 priority since you are busy setting up a new life. When you are too long being in survival mode and forget that you are a LIVING being who needs to be nourished as well, your physical and mental health take the tool.  Ultimately, you cannot pour from an empty cup. It is my goal to help female expats truly living their best live abroad with a fullness in their heart & with the healthiest body that they can achieve.