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Is this where you thought you would end up?
I was hoping, yes! I landed on the role that I wished for myself in autumn 2019 as I was closing my 2 years journey in Indonesia. I knew that there would be a second chapter of my Asia adventures ahead. Now as I wished, I have the chance to run expansions for a company from my country, Estonia, in Asia and it is amazing.
What do you consider your biggest weakness?
Overthinking. I say it is a weakness because it creates an environment/situation that allows you to over analyse which often ends up something that holds you back from moving forward and adds a great deal to demotivation.
As a female leader, what has been the most significant barrier in your career?
Doubting my abilities for no reason. Every woman needs to aspire more and own up to the role because we are always in a particular position for a reason. Learning how to give myself a pep-talk to override the negative talk and opinions is a must for success. Believing that I can do anything that comes on my path has been my mantra.
Who inspired you and why?
My mother. By being a strong woman and so incredibly solution-oriented. Having that kind of role model has provided me with the tools to get through any obstacle. Also, Sara Blakely, founder of Spanx and self-made billionaire. She is all about trial, error, and hard work that leads to success which resonates with my beliefs.
How do you balance work and life responsibilities? What have you sacrificed (both personally and professionally) at each stage of your career?
In the beginning, I sacrificed the money for learning. The next one was not being able to see my family and missing out on family events due to living abroad. A balance between work and personal life is of utmost importance to me. I'm strict with my schedules and plan regular calls with family and friends. I also make sure that I socialise enough and plan activities for myself to keep the balance and not lose out on life. Work hard, play hard. Extremely important for focus and balance is exercising - proven theory, please try.
What advice would you give to the next generation of female leaders?
First, think sustainably. Engage with activities that have a long-term goal and benefit to the Earth/society. We females have the empathy, ability to think holistically about the subject, engage and care. We are ready to work hard. This combo is a winner! Get out there and do YOU!
Second advice: however the society and habits of the younger generation are working against it (social media, instant gratification, etc.), be patient, give more and work hard, it always beats the talent.
If you had to start over from scratch, knowing what you know now, what would you do differently?
I'm certainly still at the beginning of my journey and the learning curve is quite steep but one thing for sure, I'd be even more courageous, learn how the economy works and allow myself to make more mistakes - life is a marathon.
What is an accomplishment that you are proudest of?
I'm proud that I took a leap of faith in Indonesia and decided to move there. It was completely out of my comfort zone. I'm proud that people around me or from my teams have set big goals and are achieving them.
What is one core message you received from your mentors?
To get, you first need to give. There is always a way – with these combined, my life mantra is "No is not an option, make it happen!"
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