Meet Sara Arjmand

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Sara Arjmand. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Sara, thank you so much for making time for us today. We’re excited to discuss a handful of topics with you, but perhaps the most important one is around decision making. The ability to make decisions is a key requirement for anyone who wants to make a difference and so we’d love to hear about how you developed your decision-making skills.

As the founder and owner of a marketing agency, I’ve really developed my decision-making skills over time, and a lot of it comes down to having clear goals and a strong vision. From the beginning, setting definite goals has made the decision-making process much easier. These goals act like a roadmap, guiding every step we take and making sure we’re always on the right track.
Having a clear vision for the agency has been crucial too. It’s not just about where we want to be in the next few months, but thinking long-term about where we see ourselves in the next five or ten years. This vision helps me make decisions that aren’t just about immediate gains, but about positioning us for future success in the ever-evolving marketing industry.
I make it a point to ensure that all our decisions align with this vision. Whether it’s picking the right clients, hiring the best talent, or choosing the technologies we use, everything is done with our long-term goals in mind. This way, our daily actions consistently move us closer to where we want to be.
An organic shift I noticed in my decision making was when I started working for my own business. That natural hunger to succeed and the position that relying on yourself leaves you in has made me start to trust my instinct more and more.
In a nutshell, developing my decision-making skills has been all about clarity and alignment. With clear goals and a strong vision, even the toughest decisions become more straightforward, ensuring that we’re always moving forward with purpose.

Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?

I am the CEO of Formula Marketing in the Gaslamp Quarter, where I handle marketing and public relations for the San Diego Dining Group. I’ve been a part of the Gaslamp Association for over 13 years and serve on the special event committee’s board, so I’m deeply connected to the community.

I founded Formula Marketing SD, a marketing and advertising agency focused on the hospitality industry. We specialize in digital marketing, public relations, and online presence for bars, restaurants, and hotels in San Diego. My entrepreneurial journey began in college at the University of San Diego, where I started DowFin Insurance Agency to help my fellow students with budgeting, insurance, and loans. Today, DowFin focuses on small business insurance and workers’ compensation.

I joined the San Diego Dining Group in 2007 as a marketing director and took on the role of general manager at Osetra Seafood & Steaks during the 2008 financial crisis. By increasing sales by 45%, I helped turn the restaurant around. In 2013, I became the director of operations for Greystone Prime Steakhouse & Seafood, revamping it into a local favorite that won multiple awards, including Best Steakhouse in California in 2015.

In 2019, I launched Butchers Cut Steakhouse. Looking ahead, I’m planning to form a nonprofit dedicated to advocacy and education for women in transition, providing support and a safe space for networking and assistance.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Reflecting on my journey, I believe three qualities have been particularly impactful. Firstly, self-discipline has been crucial. It helped me maintain focus, manage tasks efficiently, and stay committed to long-term goals despite challenges or distractions. Secondly, self-motivation has played a significant role. Being able to motivate myself daily, especially during tough times or setbacks, kept me moving forward and striving for success. Lastly, being a risk-taker has been instrumental. Embracing calculated risks allowed me to seize opportunities that others might have avoided, leading to significant growth and innovation in my career.

For those early in their journey, developing these qualities is essential. Firstly, with self-discipline, I recommend setting clear goals and creating a structured daily routine that aligns with your objectives. Practice prioritizing tasks, managing time effectively, and staying accountable to yourself. Secondly, for self-motivation, find what inspires you and keeps you passionate about your goals. Surround yourself with positive influences, whether it’s books, mentors, or supportive peers. Break big goals into smaller, manageable tasks to maintain momentum. Lastly, regarding risk-taking, educate yourself on the risks involved in your endeavors, but don’t let fear of failure hold you back. Start with smaller risks and gradually build confidence in your decision-making abilities. Seek advice from experienced individuals who have navigated similar paths.

Alright so to wrap up, who deserves credit for helping you overcome challenges or build some of the essential skills you’ve needed?

My mother has been the most influential figure in shaping my ability to overcome challenges and develop essential skills for success. As a single mother widowed at 36, she exemplified boldness and fearlessness, setting a powerful example of how to take risks in life and career. Her resilience was evident when she migrated from Iran through Europe with my sister and I, navigating unfamiliar territories and cultures. Her decision to move to America further underscored her determination and adaptability, instilling in me the values of courage, perseverance, and a global mindset that have been instrumental in my journey

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