In this interview, we delve into the remarkable story of how Shirin Ariff, the Founder, Author, Life Transformation Coach & Speaker of 7 Arcs Creative Works, embarked on her path to success. Join us as Shirin shares her experiences, notable accomplishments, leadership style, and the values that have guided her along the way. Discover what sets 7 Arcs Creative Works apart from other companies, how Shirin navigated the challenges of the evolving coaching and publishing industries, and her aspirations for the future. Get ready to be inspired by Shirin’s journey as a CEO and her relentless pursuit of excellence in the field of life transformation and coaching.
Leadership Qualities Contributing to Success
Shirin Ariff’s transformation from an unhappy, scared, and disempowered woman to a free, powerful, and joyful leader is a testament to her strong leadership qualities. Her journey has been guided by a vision that drives her forward, making her an audacious dreamer with clear goals and dedicated actions. Shirin’s curiosity propels her to take risks, and her honesty is a constant that people can rely on. Despite setbacks, she remains undeterred in pursuing her vision. Through her speaking, writing, and coaching, Shirin humbly serves humanity, inspiring leadership in others.
Key Trends and Challenges in the Industry
The coaching, speaking, and book publishing industries are evolving rapidly, with several key trends and challenges shaping their future in 2024 and beyond. The accessibility of the internet and social media has led to an unprecedented surge in public speakers, authors, and coaches. People worldwide are struggling with mental health issues and seeking life transformations but often don’t know how to achieve them. The demand for niche coaching in areas such as wellness, diversity, and leadership is rising. Technology is enhancing personalized coaching experiences, while hybrid models combining virtual and in-person sessions offer flexibility. However, maintaining personal connections amid technological advancements is challenging. The rise in mental health issues and suicides underscores the need for effective coaching and platforms for self-expression. Despite the increase in coaches, many programs focus on offerings rather than client needs, leading to a sense of being “coached out.” Quality and credibility are concerns, with many self-proclaimed publishers and coaches failing to deliver promised results. The industry must establish robust standards and accreditation to ensure quality. Additionally, the fast-paced changes in workplace dynamics require coaches to continuously update their skills. The global reach of social media has empowered people to share their experiences and seek support, increasing the demand for authentic and effective coaching.
Adapting to the Changing Landscape
Shirin Ariff has established a strong online presence and transitioned from in-person coaching and workshops to creating online platforms to broaden her reach. She has refined her focus to specialize in her areas of expertise and has taken courses to upgrade her skills in technology, enabling her to deliver her programs and connect with clients globally. Staying updated on current trends, Shirin is exploring the use of AI to support her work, ensuring her business adapts and thrives in the changing landscape.
Overcoming Major Obstacles
Shirin Ariff overcame major obstacles and failures by seeking coaching and fully committing to the process, following through on her commitments. She supported herself with kindness and accepted help and support when needed, demonstrating resilience and determination in the face of challenges.
Fostering a Culture of Innovation
To cultivate a culture of innovation within her organization, Shirin Ariff promotes open sharing of ideas and feedback among team members. She emphasizes continuous learning and experimentation with new approaches. Collaboration is crucial, and she invests in tools and resources to support advancement. Furthermore, Shirin actively seeks input from industry experts, clients, and stakeholders to acquire fresh insights and ideas that can drive further innovation.
Impactful Resources and Learning Experiences
The personal development and emotional intelligence programs from Next Level Trainings and Landmark have profoundly shaped Shirin Ariff’s leadership style. These experiences have established a “circle of influence” in her life, surrounding her with individuals who are achieving remarkable things, supporting her if she falters, and challenging her to realize her potential.
Building and Nurturing a Strong Team
Shirin Ariff fosters a space of mutual love, respect, appreciation, and admiration within her team, ensuring that no one is taken for granted. Clear communication and transparency are key, along with acknowledging and addressing any breakdowns. Shirin maintains zero tolerance for toxic behavior, delegates responsibilities appropriately, and celebrates success to drive business success.
Incorporating Social and Environmental Responsibility
As a woman of color, Shirin Ariff is committed to fostering a culture of respect and inclusion and supporting small and local businesses. She conducts most of her work remotely to minimize the carbon footprint. Additionally, she contributed over $5,000 from the proceeds of the first anthology, Cancer Heroes, on the first day of its launch to cancer research at the Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation.
Importance of Digital Transformation
Digital transformation is crucial for businesses in 2024. Shirin Ariff’s company has adopted advanced technologies such as AI and automation tools, developed a robust online presence, facilitated remote work, and utilized strategies like content marketing, SEO, and social media advertising. Using analytics and hiring advanced tech experts are steps taken to embrace digital transformation.
Essential Skills for Success
Several skills and qualities are essential for success in the business world, according to Shirin Ariff. Being a visionary, demonstrating strong leadership, adaptability, strategic thinking, effective communication, problem-solving abilities, emotional intelligence, resilience, financial skills, networking, empathy, and a commitment to ongoing learning are vital for business success.
Why Follow Shirin Ariff’s Leadership Journey
Shirin Ariff offers a blend of visionary thinking and practical execution. Her leadership is authentic and grounded in a commitment to fostering a culture of respect, inclusivity, and innovation. She emphasizes continuous learning and adaptation, ensuring that her approach evolves with the changing business landscape. By prioritizing both personal and professional development, Shirin models resilience, strategic thinking, and emotional intelligence. Her focus on ethical practices, social responsibility, and supporting community initiatives reflects a holistic approach to leadership that aligns with the values and needs of today’s world. Through transparency, dedication, and a genuine commitment to making a positive impact, Shirin aims to inspire others and drive meaningful change.
Influencing the Future Business Landscape
Shirin Ariff envisions empowering others by mentoring and supporting emerging leaders, helping to nurture the next generation of visionaries and innovators. Through thought leadership, including speaking, writing, and sharing insights, Shirin will continue to shape industry discussions and provide valuable perspectives on emerging trends and best practices. Strengthening community ties and supporting meaningful initiatives will contribute to societal well-being and foster strong, positive relationships. Shirin aims to set a benchmark for integrity and sustainability that inspires others to follow. Advocating for continuous learning and adaptation, she promotes agility in response to evolving trends.
Significant Achievements and Milestones
Shirin Ariff, B.A. (Eng. Hons.), B. Ed., is a 6x international best-selling author with over 3 million global views of her viral speech “Love Conquers All.” As a Life Transformation Coach, she equips her clients with tools and distinctions to access their personal power and live a life of authenticity, joy, freedom, and dignity. Shirin’s heart-wrenching story of resilience as a mom of four children is etched in her international best-selling book, “The Second Wife.” She has overcome facial paralysis, cancer, and two failed marriages. Shirin uses her life experiences to empower others, earning the affectionate title “Coach Yoda.” Her story “Beauty and the Beast” from the “Dream Big” docuseries by Ethnic Channel Group was featured at the New York International Women’s Film Festival and short-listed at the Toronto International Women’s Film Festival 2021.
Shirin Ariff serves her community as the Founder of 7 Arcs Creative Works, creating inspiring books and anthologies like the Cancer Heroes book series. She has crafted and delivered several workshops and individual and group coaching programs under her Be Your Own North Star brand, imparting transformative learning. Shirin is the proud recipient of numerous awards, including the International Women Achievers Award 2020 as a Woman of Purpose, the Spiritual Writer/Composer Halo Award 2020, and the Woman on Fire Award 2023. She was also nominated for the Top 25 Immigrant Women in Canada 2022, the Remarkable Mothers Award 2024, the IAOTP Top Transformation Coach Award 2024, and the Universal Woman of Inspiration Award 2024 (nominee). Her work has been featured on multiple platforms, including CTV News, Toronto Guardian, SiriusXM, and many more.
In conclusion, Shirin Ariff’s journey from personal adversity to becoming a prominent leader in the coaching and publishing industries is a testament to her resilience, visionary thinking, and dedication to serving others. Her ability to adapt to industry trends, foster innovation, and maintain a strong commitment to social and environmental responsibility sets her apart as a leader. Shirin’s achievements and contributions through 7 Arcs Creative Works inspire others to pursue their own transformations with authenticity and courage, making her a truly exceptional leader to follow in 2024 and beyond.
