We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Paula Torraco a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Paula , we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.
I’ve been through many transformations, from being an industrial designer to a people manager, culture manager, and now a coach.
I believe we all share a fundamental purpose: to leave this world better than we found it, to elevate its vibration.
My journey to finding my true calling wasn’t straightforward. At a crucial point in my career, instead of following the expected path of pursuing an MBA, I followed my heart.
This led me to explore deeply about purpose (dharma) and ikigai, realizing I possessed valuable tools that others needed, especially in combating burnout then.
I crafted a role in my organization to utilize these skills, but in 2020, circumstances pushed me to leave the corporate world.
This marked the beginning of my solo entrepreneurial journey. It was then, my first coaching client approached me, having witnessed my entire transformation, asking, “How did you do it?” That question marked the start of my coaching career, where I now dedicate myself to helping others navigate their paths to self-discovery and fulfillment, making decisions that are true to them and no longer living by others’ expectations.
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?
I’m Paula Torraco, and I guide conscious leaders and high achievers on a transformative journey from being observers to creators of their own life, on their terms. My approach intertwines wisdom from Human Design, recognizing that we each have a unique path and way of operating in this world.
My practice, To Be Honest (www.tobehonest.eu), is more than just coaching – it’s about helping individuals rediscover who they truly are at their core. It’s a process of deconditioning, reclaiming inner power, and embracing authentic living.
What truly excites me is witnessing the moment someone reconnects with their essence. It’s like watching someone turn the lights on in a room that’s been dark for too long. There’s a newfound sense of power, clarity, and purpose that comes alive.
Currently, I’m focusing on expanding my reach, so more individuals can embark on this journey of self-discovery and empowerment. I’ve recently launched an online course titled “Nothing Changes if Nothing Changes,” which is designed to facilitate personal transformation at a pace that suits each individual. This course is a culmination of my experience and knowledge, offering practical tools and insights for anyone seeking a more fulfilled life.
Alongside this, I continue to offer 1:1 coaching and Human Design Readings, both in private and business settings, keeping my doors open to those who prefer a more personalized approach. Together, these services aim to foster deeper connections and empower individuals and teams in business settings through transformative workshops such as Human Design for Teams.
Through my work, I hope to create a ripple effect of conscious living and leadership, where more and more people step into their power and live life on their terms.
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?
Self-Awareness: This is the key to everything. It’s all about recognizing how you’re being and showing up in the world. What’s the vibe you’re bringing to each interaction? Remember, you can only transform what you’re aware of, so this awareness is a total game-changer.
Surrendering: It’s about letting go and trusting life’s journey for you. It’s not just about what you want from life but also being open to what life wants from you. This means being purposeful in your actions but also being cool with letting go of the outcomes. Often, we don’t get what we want, but we always get what we need. It’s about embracing life’s flow.
Openness and Curiosity: Dive into the unknown with excitement. I used to stick to what was known and proven, but I’ve learned that embracing the mysteries beyond our understanding is what really opens us up to a world of possibilities.
Advice: Start right where you are, with what you’ve got. Every small step matters. Trust the wisdom of your body; it’s your compass for the right next steps, even when they seem out there. Connect with those who are ahead of you on this journey. Remember, your path is your own, but you don’t have to walk it solo. We thrive on connection, so use that to your advantage.
Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?
First and foremost, I’ve got to give a shoutout to myself. Real talk – overcoming challenges and personal evolution is a commitment you make with yourself. It’s all about putting in the effort, staying disciplined, bouncing back after setbacks, and trusting the process. No one can do that for you.
The role of people in our lives: Here’s where it gets interesting. They say you’re the average of the five people closest to you, right? I’m lucky to come from a place of privilege, with a supportive, loving family. Sure, we’ve all faced our own challenges, but the foundation was solid. And then there’s my crew of childhood friends, my chosen fam. They’ve been my rock, supporting me every step of the way.
Since diving into this transformative journey, I’ve been blessed to have coaches, guides, and mentors who’ve been pivotal. They helped me tap into my inner truths, break through limiting patterns of thought and behavior, and discover more of who I really am. Investing in myself, in this way, has been the biggest and most rewarding investment of my life.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.tobehonest.eu
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iampaulatorraco/
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/paulatorraco
- Youtube: www.youtube.com/@tobehonesteu
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@iampaulatorraco

Image Credits
Photographer: Birgit Loit.
