All eyes on Sanne

Sanne is the type who never sits still. A mother of two daughters, owner of Kinderpraktijk Veldhoven and Carpe Idea, she's always looking for the person behind the mask. Where others see difficult behavior, she sees the beginning of something beautiful. With humor and a healthy dose of positive energy, she helps children and adults rediscover their inner strength.

Her very first job says it all about her drive. Curious what it was? You can read all about it here. Who are you in a nutshell?

I'm Sanne, mother of two beautiful daughters, and owner of Kinderpraktijk Veldhoven and the training and coaching program Carpe Idea. I'm always searching for the person behind the masks and behavior. Who are you truly, and why aren't you succeeding right now? I do this with children and adults. Because when you are completely yourself, life flows effortlessly, and that ultimately makes the world a more beautiful place.

Trashious's payoff is: Where some see trash, we see opportunities. How does that resonate with you?

Where others see annoying or offensive behavior, I always see the good in people. And returning to that with humor, fun, and relaxation—that's where the opportunities lie.

When do you feel at your strongest?

When I see people dare to take a step or let go of something that no longer serves them, that transformative power makes me feel at my strongest.

But also when I do spontaneous things with friends. Like grabbing a drink on a terrace, flying somewhere, or throwing a party.

Who or what gives you that kick in the butt when you need it?

I've been an entrepreneur for quite some time now. So I have to give myself that kick in the butt regularly, because no one else does. Although I do have some really great people around me who occasionally hold up a mirror to me.

What choices in your life make you proud?

Actually, those are mainly the choices where I followed my gut. If things weren't going well with my daughter and there was a report I disagreed with, my gut told me to take a different course. Or we decided to move abroad as a family for a while. That felt good too, and it turned into a mega adventure.

How do you motivate yourself on days when you'd rather stay under a blanket?

Sometimes I actually allow myself to lie down with that blanket. But usually, my sense of responsibility is so strong that I go to work anyway. And those are often the best days. Besides, we've had a puppy at home for a few months now. He definitely motivates me to get out every day.

How do you minimize your footprint on the world?

I'm trying to fly less (but I find that quite challenging). We eat vegetarian quite often, so I'm careful about buying food in bulk and often eat leftovers from the day before.

If your bag could talk, what would it say about you?

Maybe tone it down a little. I'm always busy, always on the go, always on. A little more calm wouldn't hurt.

What was your first job?

At 13, I started helping out in the company restaurant of an institution for the mentally handicapped. That wasn't allowed at all because I was too young. But I was so eager for a summer job that I was perfectly happy to be paid in tourist vouchers.

What's the best compliment you've ever received?

That I radiate a lot of positive energy and that makes it very safe for people to share their story.

Which woman inspires you? Who would you like to share an evening of wine and wisdom with?

Brené Brown – the expert on vulnerability, courage, and leadership. She manages to make complex topics lighthearted and human. Her stories immediately make you think about how you dare to live and lead yourself.

What was the biggest challenge in your life and how did you deal with it?

My family's care needs. One daughter was diagnosed with autism after years of searching. The other daughter underwent seven surgeries in three years. I also have a husband who is often away for work. I've had to adjust my career and life accordingly, but I was ultimately able to make it my profession by working with children myself.

In which 3 hashtags would you describe yourself?

#spontaneous #caring #humor

In which 3 hashtags would you describe Trashious?

#beautiful #sustainable #stylish Inspired? We'd love to hear your story and feature it. Share it here >>