Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Kala Simmons. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Kala, so good to have you with us today. We’ve got so much planned, so let’s jump right into it. We live in such a diverse world, and in many ways the world is getting better and more understanding but it’s far from perfect. There are so many times where folks find themselves in rooms or situations where they are the only ones that look like them – that might mean being the only woman of color in the room or the only person who grew up in a certain environment etc. Can you talk to us about how you’ve managed to thrive even in situations where you were the only one in the room?
Growing up on the Tennessee/Northern Alabama Border, I know exactly what it’s like to be the only person in the room that looks like me, and how that difference can impact your self-esteem, confidence, and sense of what is acceptable or desirable. Fortunately, I was blessed with a family that valued reading, education, and hard work. Despite blatant occurrences of discrimination or disrespect, we were never allowed to use our heritage as an excuse for lack of accomplishment or poor effort. Instead, we were instructed to study harder, show up bolder, and communicate with clarity at all times. While it may sound harsh to others, this hardwired me for adaptability, teachability, and a near insatiable desire for learning and personal growth. I have applied these life lessons in academia, the corporate office, and my entrepreneurial journey. Being a black woman in leadership in the deep south, is not always easy, but it’s never an excuse for my voice to quake and it’s always an opportunity to show someone what’s possible when you stand in your power and commit to success.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
As a Transformation Coach, I support women to identify their highest self and own their power. I genuinely believe that owning who you are and regularly testing your potential by getting uncomfortable is the secret sauce to happiness and continuous growth. The most rewarding part of being a Life Coach is getting to play a fundamental role in lending others one the most important virtues in life- hope. Each day I sew seeds of self-belief, reaffirm worth, validate feelings, and map out journeys to success. I love seeing people overcome obstacles and shock themselves with all they are able to accomplish. Whether women partner with me for individual sessions on Self-Discovery or Goal Strategy, or they choose a more in depth journey such as my 90-day, 1:1 program, I am passionate about transformation and I love making an impact
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?
Without doubt my journey to success was paved by adaptability, perseverance, and teachability. No matter how much effort you put into planning, life has a tendency to throw you a curve ball. Learning to adapt and not letting unforeseen circumstances derail your dreams is crucial. This quality goes had in hand with perseverance. Far too often, I find that people give up on new ideas, plans, or goals at the first sign of adversity. Give yourself grace and allow space for the confidence and competence to develop. Remember, “Every master was once a beginner.” Lastly, maintaining a teachable attitude, even long after you have mastered an art or skill is imperative to continuous fulfillment and growth.To make a meaningful impact on the community and society, you must remain open to learning and embracing change.
How would you describe your ideal client?
My ideal client is a woman who is seeking support in identifying who she is and her purpose in the world. I am ready to empower those who recognize that they are made for more, but need direction and clarity in developing a plan for goal execution and attainment. Additionally, women who struggle with perfectionism, people pleasing, poor boundaries, and self-confidence may also benefit from my services and programming.
Contact Info:
- Website: heycoachk.co
- Instagram: instagram.com/heycoachk
- Facebook: Facebook.com/heycoachk
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@HeyCoachK1
Image Credits
Photos by: Jayson Rivas, L.J. Russell, & Lenise Zika
