Consciousness Mentor & Senior leadership Coach Guiding Leaders and Visionaries to Align Heart, Mind and Soul
Carla van der Leeden is a beacon of transformation and empowerment, dedicated to guiding individuals towards healing and discovering their true purpose. As the founder of Flow Your Energy, Carla draws from a profound personal journey marked by resilience and introspection. Growing up in a challenging environment as a twin and the youngest in her family, Carla navigated early loss and adversity with a deep-seated belief that life held greater possibilities beyond her immediate surroundings.
My journey began in a rough neighborhood, as the youngest twin in my family. Losing my mother at the age of five left me feeling deeply fragmented. Seeking solace, I often mentally escaped to distant places, believing there had to be a better life waiting for me. Through a journey of intense inner work and self-discovery, I gradually transcended my circumstances, paving the way to where I am today.
Your journey seems to have required self-mothering and a deep introspective process. Can you elaborate on how these experiences transformed you and influenced your path?
The absence of my mother heightened my awareness of the emotional needs of others. I became acutely sensitive to the pain and struggles people often hide beneath the surface. This empathy has been a driving force in my professional and personal life, motivating me to create environments where individuals feel seen, heard, and valued. I am deeply committed to providing the support and understanding that I once longed for, ensuring that others do not feel as isolated as I did.
Growing up in a challenging environment also taught me the value of perseverance and the power of a positive mindset. Despite the hardships, I learned to find joy in small victories and maintain hope for a better future. This optimism has been a guiding light, propelling me forward even in the darkest times. It has allowed me to approach challenges with a solution-oriented mindset, always seeking ways to turn difficulties into opportunities for growth.
What drew you specifically to healing and coaching? Can you share your initial experiences in this field?
My initiation into coaching and healing was deeply influenced by my personal journey and the realization of a critical missing link in my own experiences. Having lost my mother at the tender age of five and growing up in a challenging environment, I was acutely aware of the gaps in emotional support and understanding that profoundly impacted my development.
The turning point came when I began to explore personal development and healing practices. Through attending various studies and engaging in self-reflection, I identified the crucial elements that were missing in traditional support systems. It became clear that a profound understanding of one’s unique emotional and psychological needs was essential for true healing and growth.
Determined to address this missing link, I developed “The Crown” program, focusing on Energy Flow Mastery. This program is designed to provide the deep, empathetic understanding and customized support that I found lacking in my own journey. It is especially aimed at high-impact individuals such as directors, CEOs, and successful entrepreneurs, who often face immense pressure and isolation.
Reflecting on your personal healing journey, what was the catalyst that propelled you forward?
The catalyst that propelled me forward was a deep-seated need to help others, provide safety, and offer unwavering support. Early in my career, I encountered numerous individuals who were struggling to find their footing, both professionally and personally. Witnessing their challenges ignited a passion within me to make a difference.
I realized that I possess a unique gift – the ability to see through people, to understand their true needs and potential even when they themselves cannot.
This intuitive insight has allowed me to connect with individuals on a profound level.
Moreover, my extensive experience has equipped me with the knowledge and skills needed to create environments where people feel safe and supported. I understand the importance of fostering trust and security, as it is within such spaces that individuals can truly thrive and achieve their highest potential.
What advice would you offer your younger self?
Embrace every opportunity to learn and grow, even when it seems daunting. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone; that’s where the magic happens. Understand that failure is not the opposite of success but a part of it. Each mistake is a lesson that brings you closer to your goals.
Prioritize self-care and mental well-being. Success is not just about professional achievements; it’s about maintaining a healthy balance between work and personal life. Take time to relax, reflect, and recharge. Always stay true to your values and beliefs. Authenticity is a powerful tool that will attract the right opportunities and people into your life. Trust your intuition and follow your passion, even if the path is unconventional.
Could you tell us about your current offerings and upcoming projects?
For over four decades, I have collaborated with a diverse range of individuals and organizations across various levels. With this extensive experience, I recognized the need for a fresh approach. Thus, I developed “The Crown,” a program dedicated to Energy Flow Mastery. This program is specifically designed for high-impact individuals, including directors, CEOs, and successful entrepreneurs.
Currently, I launched a new website and focusing on a comprehensive one-on-one guidance program called ‘The Crown,’ spanning three to six months. This personalized approach emphasizes mastering energy flow, self-awareness, and discovering one’s true potential from the inside out. It’s not about external success alone but about fostering inner alignment and fulfillment.
How do you maintain balance and harmony in your life?
Maintaining balance and harmony in my life is a deeply intentional process, one that involves listening to my body and honoring its signals. Over the years, I have cultivated a holistic approach that integrates various practices to ensure my well-being, both physically and mentally.
Meditation plays a pivotal role in my quest for balance. Each day, I dedicate time to sit in stillness, focusing on my breath and centering my mind. This practice helps me cultivate inner peace and clarity, providing a refuge from the constant demands of everyday life. Meditation allows me to reconnect with my inner self, fostering a sense of groundedness and tranquility that permeates all aspects of my life.
Nature is my sanctuary, a place where I can recharge and find inspiration. Whether it’s hiking through lush forests, walking along a tranquil beach, or simply sitting in a garden, nature provides a profound sense of connection and renewal. The natural world reminds me of the beauty and simplicity of life, helping me maintain perspective and balance amidst the complexities of modern living.
Carla, your journey and insights are truly inspiring. As you continue to expand your reach and impact, what do you envision for the future of your brand?
My vision extends to reaching influential leaders such as directors, CEOs, and entrepreneurs, empowering them to create profound ripples of positive change. I’ve authored a book in Dutch and aspire to translate its insights globally, encouraging everyone to rewrite their stories and embrace their innate potential.
In essence, I envision a future where my brand stands as a testament to the power of compassionate, individualized coaching and healing. A future where it serves as a catalyst for personal and professional transformation, helping individuals unlock their fullest potential and live lives of balance, harmony, and fulfillment.
Lastly, is there a philosophy or mantra that resonates deeply with you?
My philosophy, which serves as the guiding star for my life and work, is rooted in a simple yet profound mantra: “Don’t ask why, but how and what can I do.” This mindset encourages a proactive and solutions-oriented approach, empowering individuals to see beyond obstacles and explore a world of possibilities.
By shifting the focus from questioning why something has happened to asking how we can respond and what actions we can take, we transform challenges into opportunities for growth and innovation. This philosophy fosters a sense of agency and freedom, reminding us that we are not bound by circumstances but are free to shape our own destinies.
Photography Credit – Alina Krasieva
