Journey From IT Management To Fitness – Exclusive Interview With Vanessa Werner

In the narrative of the transition from IT management to the domain of fitness and nutrition coaching, Vanessa's journey unfolds as a testament to the transformative potential inherent in the pursuit of personal passions. Gifted with an unwavering belief in the realization of heartfelt aspirations, Vanessa's story traces back to early childhood. At the age of 5, a request to acquire a horse was expressed to her father, who wisely suggested obtaining one when the ability to afford it was attained. Thus, the journey into financial independence commenced at an early age, culminating in the purchase of the first horse at the age of 12.

In the course of her corporate career, she came to the realization that successful women frequently encounter distinctive challenges when striving to strike a balance amidst the demands of a high-powered profession. Armed with a background in IT management, she honed strategic thinking, time management, and leadership skills. The amalgamation of her corporate experience and a steadfast dedication to holistic well-being now serves as the foundation for assisting ambitious women in achieving success on their fitness journeys.

Recognizing the need for a customized approach that seamlessly integrates with their hectic schedules and aligns with their broader life objectives, she leverages her expertise to provide practical, results-oriented strategies for these women.

Vanessa Werner, Personal Coach

Vanessa, how do you empower women to balance careers and well-being through your "Feel Your Power" approach?

"Feel Your Power" is all about enabling women to utilize their bodies as powerful assets. I focus on personalized fitness and nutrition solutions that seamlessly fit into their daily lives, crafting strategies aligned with career demands to optimize time and energy.

For instance, Nora, one of my clients, who was used to prioritizing her duties as senior manager over her personal well-being, found motivation through fitness training. My holistic approach in "Feel Your Power" convinced her to participate, aiming for increased fitness, energy, and a true work-life balance. She was surprised to see that with only minimal additional net time investment she could even overachieve her well-being goals. “This is possible because Vanessa’s program itself and the new tailor-made habits I adopted are both extremely efficient and fully aligned with my professional and personal routines.”

You've emphasized work-life balance and fitness for ambitious women. Can you provide practical strategies?

Let me share another example: Sabine, an IT consultant, was previously stressed out by finding some time in the evening trying to make up for her lack of movement throughout the day. With my strategies she found a way to integrate regular mild physical exercise like stretching into her office day. She even started to put her laptop onto a pile of books to create a standing desk and incorporate some additional steps by walking in place during online meetings. This way she never has a bad conscience and starts her evenings feeling relaxed.

As a woman in leadership, how do you exemplify a positive role model, and what lessons can others learn from your journey?

I openly showcase that achieving a balance between career success and personal well-being is possible through tailored strategies and consistent effort.

Encouraging authenticity and adapting work setups to support unique talents is crucial, whether under the umbrella of New Work or Self-Leadership.

For instance, in my earlier managerial years, I hesitated to openly display breaks or exercise habits, fearing it might be perceived as weakness. However, I learned that openly sharing such decisions sets healthy boundaries for the team, making it easier for them to take care of their physical and mental well-being. Don't be afraid to stand out; you're already a role model demonstrating how to lead a happy, healthy, and successful life!

How do women, embracing your holistic fitness and nutrition approach contribute to a healthier, more empowered community?

My approach brings inspiring transformations to women, fostering collective well-being and empowerment.

Clients experience increased energy, improved health, and newfound empowerment, like a busy executive maintaining productivity through self-care. These transformations contribute to a healthier, empowered community, inspiring others.

I am always touched by Miriam’s journey. Due to PCO syndrome she not only suffered from nasty symptoms like facial hair, but she was even fearing that she would not be able to have children. Miriam started with our Easy Eating method and then incorporated more and more fitness training and other healthy habits. She regained her positive attitude and happiness.

Still during the Feel Your Power program she became pregnant. After the “baby break” we started training together again. Imagine how wonderful it is to see her son running around as we do the exercises.He experiences his mother as a balanced, fit woman. He is used to a healthy, relaxed nutrition. No dieting, no body shaming, no constant stress levels.What a good start into a healthy and happy life and maybe habits which he will adopt and even pass on to his children.

And that’s my drive: to improve ambitious women’s lives and help them to achieve their desired outcomes. But it not only has individual benefits for each woman, it also strengthens overall purpose-driven leaders. I want as many ambitious women as possible to experience the extraordinary, transformative potential of "Feel Your Power“. And above all, I also want us as a community to continue growing.

What are your top three tips for achieving a balance between career success and personal well-being?

1. Prioritize self-care: Allocate time for self-care activities that rejuvenate your mind and body. This could include exercise, meditation, or simply taking a break to relax. Make it a habit to increase the number of breaks the busier you are. And remember small steps do count! A daily routine has a bigger and more sustainable effect than a yearly vacation break.

2. Delegate and collaborate: Don't hesitate to delegate tasks at work and collaborate with others. This holds true at home as well! You can share the load with family members or service providers.

3. Manage your energy instead of your time: While owning your schedule is a non-negotiable basic, it is even more important to get rid of any activities which decrease your energy level and learn how to re-generate energy. Hint: you can use your body as a beautiful powerhouse.

Most likely your journey to a fitter and more balanced version of yourself will not happen overnight. So, take time for regular reflection on your goals, values, and overall well-being. Adjust your approach as needed.

Remember, finding the right balance is a continuous process that may require adjustments based on changing circumstances and priorities.

And never forget to celebrate even small successes.

Women who would like to exchange and reflect on how to lead a fitter, healthier and more balanced life are invited to apply for a Feel Your Power strategy call with Vanessa Werner.

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