GLOSS Issue 20 FEB 2015 | Page 52

1 In Conversation With Carol Yang Tell us a little about your business and what you do I spent more than 20 years building a successful global marketing career only to pack it in a few years ago as I wanted more for my life. At that time, I didn’t know whether I was brave or crazy ! Now I know it was the best thing I have ever done for myself. I’ve always believed in living life with few regrets - something that’s difficult but I’ve tried my best to do. That’s why I left a perfectly good job and career. I was convinced I could have a better life - doing work that was more meaningful and a life that took into account all the things that mattered to me. I didn’t want to regret not giving myself the chance to figure this out. I’m glad to say I did. And that’s how Spring Forward came to life. It’s my way of paying it forward as I know many successful women reach crossroads where they seek greater meaning and purpose, yet are often confused and undecided about their next path. Spring Forward is about daring to believe that you can lead the life you really want for yourself. It is about getting back in touch with what truly matters to you and allowing that to guide your decisions as you journey through life. I guess, in a way, you could say that I’m your personal travel planner for your life’s journey. I help you get to where you want to go. By working with you to figure out what’s most important to you in your (life) journey, and trouble shooting your travel plans to get there. Quite a change from being the Vice President of Global Marketing but I’m loving it! 2 What’s the bravest decision you have had to make in your business ? Being vulnerable to share my personal journey publicly to inspire others and help them learn from my highs and lows. This was a huge step coming from someone who cringes at the very thought of sharing personal stuff on social media… look at my personal Facebook page and you’ll see what I mean ! My personal journey was the inspiration for Spring Forward - that’s a fact. But it took me a long while to come to terms with making my story so front and centre for the business. In the end, it was clarity of purpose that helped me overcome my discomfort. What’s your vision for your business ? For Spring Forward to be the trusted go-to source of inspiration and guidance for women feeling confused and conflicted about their next path in life. I know firsthand what it is like to be ‘successful’ yet feel stuck, confused and lost. And I also know the peace of mind, renewed vigor and clarity of purpose once you’ve successfully moved past these crossroads. The need is universal for both genders yet there are few solutions that are tailored specifically to address this unique need. Our long term goal is to expand to also include men in our programs; and to take the business globally. 3