Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Sylvia Baffour. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Sylvia, looking forward to learning from your journey. You’ve got an amazing story and before we dive into that, let’s start with an important building block. Where do you get your work ethic from?
I would say my work ethic is a culmination of observing the many people who have surrounded me over the past four decades. However, the two most impressionable influences have been my parents, Eric and Emma Baffour. They set me on the path of caring deeply about showing up, working hard, following through on commitments, and always doing the right thing.
The reason they’ve been so instrumental is that I got to witness their work ethic in action throughout my life—not just through words, but through consistent, solid behavior. It’s easy to preach one thing and live another, but my parents have always walked their talk. Their actions were unwavering examples of making people feel valued and respected, even in moments of disagreement.
To me, a great work ethic is not just about the effort you put into tasks; it’s also about how you treat those you interact with along the way. We often forget that our work does not exist in isolation but in relation to others. My parents demonstrated that a respected and appreciated work ethic includes treating people with kindness and respect, ensuring everyone feels valued. This holistic approach to work ethic is something I strive to embody every day.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
Originally from Accra, Ghana, my love for travel has taken me to over 35 countries and seven places I’ve called home. Along the way, I’ve picked up five languages and a rich appreciation for diverse cultures, shaping how I connect with the world.
My career began in Finance and French, driven by my father’s influence. However, a year as a business consultant revealed a deeper passion for understanding the human mind and emotions. In 2001, I became a certified Life Coach, beginning a journey that would lead me to focus on Emotional Intelligence (EI).
Today, I help people use EI to build stronger relationships, navigate challenges, and truly thrive. I’ve had the privilege of working with notable clients like The World Bank, Marathon Petroleum, Whirlpool, and Doctors Without Borders, helping them cultivate emotionally intelligent leadership.
What I believe makes my work meaningful is the heart I bring to every presentation. I take the time to understand each audience’s unique needs, making EI practical and relatable. Being recognized among HubSpot’s Top 15 Female Speakers, alongside Oprah Winfrey is a proud achievement, but what I value most is the integrity and authenticity I bring to my work.
My brand, Dare to Care™, reflects my belief in empathy, connection, and genuine care. It’s about living EI every day and helping others do the same.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Curiosity, humility, and self-belief have been pivotal in my journey, both professionally and personally. Curiosity keeps me open to new opportunities and perspectives, driving me to explore and learn continuously. It’s been a catalyst for growth, pushing me to embrace experiences I might otherwise shy away from. Humility reminds me of my roots and the giants whose shoulders I stand on. I endeavor to never forget where I came from. It also keeps me grounded and focused on maintaining genuine connections with others. Self-belief helps me overcome imposter syndrome, reinforcing that I deserve my achievements through faith in my abilities. It enables me to push past self-doubt and strive for what I deserve in life.
For those early in their journey, I say, nurture your curiosity by exploring diverse interests and remain open to learning. Engage with new ideas, ask questions, and never stop learning (from both your successes and failings). Keep in mind that success is often a collective effort. Stay grounded and connected to your roots. Cultivate self-belief by setting small, achievable goals that build confidence over time. Sometimes, we shoot for the stars in ways that diminish our self-worth when we miss. Celebrate your victories, no matter how small, and use them as stepping stones to larger successes.
Remember, comparison can be detrimental. Focus on your own path, moving at a pace that feels authentic to you, even if it pulls you out of your comfort zone. True growth and success often lie beyond the boundaries of comfort. Embrace these qualities, and you’ll be well on your way to a fulfilling and impactful journey.
Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?
Giving us the opportunity to travel around the world and live in multiple countries was, hands down, one of the most impactful things my parents did for me. My father’s remarkable nature and the high regard in which he was held often led to opportunities abroad, and we got to tag along. This exposure to different cultures and languages helped me and my brothers develop the ability to relate to people from various walks of life.
This skill has proven invaluable in my adult life, especially as a professional speaker and executive coach. Traveling extensively has not only broadened my horizons but also enriched my understanding and empathy, which I find crucial for connecting with diverse audiences. Being well-traveled allows me to bring a global perspective to my work, making my message more relatable and impactful wherever I go.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://sylviaspeaks.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sylviaspeaks/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sylviabaffour/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/sylviabaffour
Image Credits
Photo credits: shalaphotography.com
