Name
Sarah Tefs
Where do you live?
Saint Joseph, MI
Company or Organization
Saint Joseph Pilates
What is your job or role there?
Owner
How do you think that Bold Women of Business demonstrate being bold?
The boldest women that I know are unique in their leadership style. They’re bold because they don’t fear that the success of others diminishes their success. They elevate those around them. They’re confident in their positions of prominence and, so, they are are inclusive and humble.
Bold women are often defined by a number of descriptors. Please choose from the following descriptors to produce the top three that you would say most exemplify your personality?
Confident
Brave
Distinctive
Please provide an example of when you feel you were at your very best in taking action on the job or in your role.
The best moments of my job are when I’m able to use my knowledge to solve a client’s problem. Several clients turn to Pilates when they’ve completed PT or are avoiding surgery. Taking action to create a plan that helps them find relief are the best parts of my job .
What’s the funniest thing that ever happened on your road to success?
My career trajectory is humorous in itself. I have a business degree and worked in advertising for over a decade. When I felt unfulfilled in my career, I became a registered yoga instructor – and eventually a Pilates instructor – to teach part time as my “fun job”. I would have never expected all those years ago that my fun job and full-time job would converge in the way that they have.
Who most inspires your personal drive for success every day?
I’ve always been driven, but when I told my kids I was going to be a business owner I was blown away by their excitement. I never expected it to mean so much to them. They were so proud of me! It was a complete role reversal, but it has inspired me to dig even deeper to ensure success.
What is your best advice to women in Southwest Michigan looking to succeed, as you have, in business?
Seek the support and advice of other females in business. Running a business or succeeding in business is challenging but you don’t have to do it all alone. I’ve been lucky to have female mentors in my career who’ve inspired my method of leadership. And now, I’m lucky to have friendships with other female business owners who’ve advised me and to whom I can look for input or just to commiserate.
What does your selection to the ranks of the Bold Women of Business from Moody on the Market mean to you?
It’s incredibly flattering and motivating! I’m so moved by the words of my client who nominated me and I’m determined to continue doing the work that means so much to so many.
