Today’s Notable Young Professional is personal trainer and nutrition specialist Sonia Jhas, who left an executive sales position to launch “Get Fit With Sonia” and help motivate people globally to lead a healthy, balanced lifestyle…
Elevator Pitch: Describe your job in a nutshell.
As a personal trainer and nutrition specialist, I provide my clients with fitness and nutrition counselling to help them achieve their health and wellness goals – whether that be through one-on-one sessions, online coaching, or classes at my fitness studio.
Why did you start working at your company? What was the inspiration for this career route?
Prior to jumping headfirst into the fitness industry, I was a sales executive in the technology sector. Despite having a great career, I was often stressed and unhappy, quietly wishing that I would “find my calling in life.” Since fitness had always been a passion of mine, I decided to get my personal training and nutrition certifications done in hopes that I would enjoy coaching and would take it up as a fun hobby. To make a long story short, I took on a several clients and quickly realized that I had found something that made me feel truly happy and authentic. In 2011, I decided to quit the corporate world and launch “Get Fit With Sonia” so that I could not only work with clients locally, but also help motivate people globally to lead a healthy, balanced lifestyle.
What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
The best part of my day is the one-on-one interaction I have with my clients. I love watching them push their limits and achieve goals they once thought would be impossible. The most challenging part of my day is juggling all of the other things that I have to do, such as managing my fitness studio, creating content for my online platform, or simply factoring in some recovery time.
What is one sign that you’ve seen over the years to suggest that your work/life balance is off?
When I first switched careers, I found myself burning out quite often. Every few months, I’d start to feel chronically fatigued, my workouts would begin to suffer, and I’d find myself unable to bounce back no matter how hard I’d try. Over the last year and a half, I’ve gotten better at pre-emptively scaling back when I feel like I’m in overdrive. I can’t say that I’ve figured out the perfect equation yet, but I’m definitely getting better at striking a balance.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
In the next five years, I’d like to see the “Get Fit With Sonia” platform continue to expand its reach so that I’m able to motivate and educate even more people from around the world. At this point, I also think I’d like to write a book and potentially create some fitness videos.
What is one major challenge that you’ve had to overcome in your career? How did you overcome it?
Oddly enough, trying to figure out what I really want from my career has been a challenge in my life. Growing up, I was always striving towards conventional success – a good degree, a prestigious job, high income, etc. Without much thought, I just assumed it was what I wanted. It wasn’t until I had actually achieved many of my goals that I realized I was on a path that made me unhappy. It was a real challenge for me to learn how to think beyond the black-and-white that I had confined myself to for so many years. It was a slow process, but I overcame my preconceived notions of success by getting in touch with my “inner voice,” having confidence in myself, and ultimately taking a leap of faith.
What does success look like to you? Does Money = Happiness?
In my eyes, money doesn’t equal happiness. Money can help with happiness, by allowing us to enjoy life’s many luxuries, but by no means does money buy happiness.
For me, success is feeling passionate about what I do. It’s about feeling like my most “authentic self” – the version of me that feels empowered, driven, balanced and happy.
What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
Opening up a fitness studio has probably been the highlight of my fitness career so far. When I was in university, I often dreamed of being an entrepreneur, as if it was something “larger than life,” attainable for others but not something within my reach. Launching a fitness studio made entrepreneurship a reality for me and made me feel like I’m capable of turning vision into reality.
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
Actively try to silence the little voice in your head that says, “you can’t do this.” Allow yourself to dream big and then go after your dreams with all you’ve got. Your choices may sound silly to others, but if you’re honest and authentic with yourself about what you want, then you’re on the right path.
Where is your favourite place to wine/ dine in your city and why?
Fresh is favourite “anytime” restaurant. It’s delicious, nutritious, and totally guilt-free.
When you’re not working how do you love to spend your “Me” time?
When I’m not working, I love to spend time with my husband, friends, and family. I’m pretty easy to please – all it takes is some good food and good conversation. In my spare time, I also like to read, watch copious amounts of Netflix, and experiment with baking healthy treats.
Where is your favourite place to travel? Why?
I have to say Bali has been my favourite place to travel so far. There’s just something about the culture and beauty that leaves you longing for more. I hope to go back for another visit soon!
If you had to choose a theme song, what would it be?
Move Your Body – Beyonce
If you weren’t doing what you’re doing, what would you be doing?
I’d be a sales executive in the technology sector, probably back at IBM.
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
The SickKids Foundation is a charity that I’ve always supported. The hospital is one of the world’s leading healthcare institutions for children and the money they collect helps push the frontiers of what’s possible in care and research.
What to you is notable?
People or pieces of work that make you view the world, or yourself, a little differently.
BlackBerry, iPhone, Android, or Other?
iPhone… but I do miss my BlackBerry!
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