I am so excited to share my first Woman of the Month selection with you all! — Sarah Carlson!

In the fast-paced world of finance, where challenges are ever-present, Sarah stands as a shining example of resilience and determination. With sheer grit and hard work, she has climbed the ladder despite the twists and turns of her career.

But Sarah’s story isn’t just about her professional success—it’s also about balancing work with family life. Yes, you heard it right: she’s a proud mom of four children, including two sets of twins! Despite facing challenges, she has never allowed them to slow her down. With the constant support of her family, she confronts every obstacle head-on and emerges even stronger.

Get ready for this exciting interview as we delve into Sarah’s extraordinary journey—a journey marked by resilience, perseverance, and the unwavering pursuit of balance amidst life’s challenges.1.What achievements or milestones have you reached in your career that you’re most proud of, and what journey did it take to get there?

I have a service heart and love helping others; I have been in the financial industry my entire career. I so enjoy helping our clients simplify and solve their financial needs. The financial industry is very competitive and challenging, and I am proud to have survived and thrived through having a family and creating the right balance. At times, I had to dial back and sometimes thrust forward to make my career work for my life. During that journey, I raised my four children (two sets of twins), went through a contentious divorce, and navigated a life-altering accident ( being a pedestrian in a hit-and-run car accident). I am thankful for the many beautiful experiences and relationships I have had through time. I have been a Financial Life Manager my entire career, and it is so satisfying to see our clients achieve their life goals because of the strategies and investments we have helped them with.

 2. As a successful woman, how do you balance your professional responsibilities with self-care and personal fulfillment?

I am thankful I have chosen a career that does not feel like work; my career and personal life are the same. Money issues seem whimsical and fun. I built a business so I would have control over my time and my income. Balance to me means true wealth: to spend time where you want, with who you want, for as long as you want. I schedule self-care with the systems I commit to my clients and loved ones.

3. Who are the key supporters or mentors in your life that have helped you along your journey, and how have they influenced your success?

I do what I do because of my four children. I want to be a role model and have a strong relationship with each of them. I am proud of each of my children and the young adults they have become. My children have always motivated me to do my best and to learn from my failures. I have learned more from my failures than I have from my victories.

My husband, Andy, is my muse and my biggest supporter. Andy processes information differently than I do, and with his love and support, he has encouraged me to take on challenges that I otherwise would not have. As a result of his emotional support, my personal and professional life has grown ten times in the last nine years we have been together. I believe in the power of love and the abundance it brings.

4. Can you share a challenge or obstacle you’ve faced in your career and how you overcame it?

I care deeply, which is my biggest asset and most significant liability. I would mentor and help employees in business only to realize my trust was misplaced. I had one person steal from me, and I had to go after him legally, and I won. I learned from that man that you need to believe people the first time they reveal who they are. In business,  you need employment contracts; if things go sideways, those contracts will help protect your reputation and business.

 The bottom line is never to stay in a relationship, either personally or professionally, that is unhealthy. The only things we all have a limited amount of are time and energy. How you choose to spend your time and energy is precious.  I believe adversity does not build character; it reveals it.

5.What advice would you give other women aspiring to succeed in their careers while maintaining authenticity and staying true to their values?

I recommend women pursue their dreams; they are worth it. Small actions add up, so even if you think an effort won’t make a difference, it does. Over time, those small actions will help to alter your trajectory and lead you to a place you would never otherwise attain if you did not take that action. Too often, as women, we prioritize our children, partners, bosses, and clients over ourselves; we think we will have more time, resources, and options. I want to tell women you are worth it. You are worth prioritizing yourself and investing in yourself. The one thing you have a finite amount of is time and energy, so use yours wisely.  Money does not solve money problems but good advice will.