Meet Sara Abbas: Entrepreneur | Author | Singer | Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Sara Abbas and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Sara, have you built meaningful relationships at networking events? What makes you want to connect with someone, and what are things people do that make you want to steer clear?
Over the years, many factors have contributed to someone making an outstanding first impression on me. Because relationship capital is vital, I’ve learned to get a better feel for who to connect with early on, and there is one key component that stands out when networking: *How do they treat other people?* Is this person respectful to those whose business may not benefit their own or to those who may be considered their competition? When someone is swift to snub another because they cannot see what’s in it for them or if they are overly competitive, I strongly consider if this is someone with whom I want to associate. Similarly, if someone does not tip the server/bartender or show appreciation to the event host (when given the opportunity), it makes me think values may not be aligned. However, when someone can show genuine gratitude and respect for all they encounter, it’s a truly magnetic quality. I am compelled to connect with those who carry themselves in a more “conscious” manner as this tends to indicate a more mindful way of doing business or simply interacting, and greater success on all levels down the road.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’ve always been a problem-solver, and I was blessed with a very clear “vision” of my future for as long as I can remember. My businesses revolve around forward thinking, implementing solutions or strategies with the future in mind. With my designs, I invent beautiful pieces that serve a purpose but aren’t yet available. With my music, I often like to put words to tough situations or sing about feelings that may not be easy to express. Most of my projects / businesses (the agency, my writing, the online store, etc.) are linked on my website and all have an underlying theme of creating solutions. When I discover a need for something of significance, my mind immediately shifts to, “how can I create this”? It’s a challenge because there’s rarely a blueprint and mentorship can be hard to come by when no one is really doing the thing you want to do. It must all happen very organically. One of my fellow futurist friends, Ti Caine, helped me to understand that the Future creates the Present; I often think of that concept and it excites me even more about what lies ahead. As much as I love and appreciate being present with life as it is lived, I believe that too often our current circumstances may cloud our vision. We sometimes don’t see the greatness that lies ahead – never lose sight of that.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I could write a list a mile long and it still wouldn’t be enough to thank everyone who has impacted my success, but just to name a few; I’d like to send a massive Shoutout to both of my wonderful parents who have been encouraging my creativity and curious spirit since the dawn of (my) time – without them, none of this would be possible. Eric Moore, thank you for helping me “think like a genius” – your insights on money and business have inspired so much greatness in my world. Ania London, your abundant grace, business acumen, and beauty (inside as well as out) provide constant motivation. Greg S. Reid, thank you for the magic you create and the people you bring together – I hope everyone reads each of his fantastic books and has the opportunity to hear him speak. Teju Owoye, thank you for keeping me on my toes with your many audacious contributions to humanity – you never cease to inspire and amaze. And, thank you to everyone across the globe helping me bring my projects and vision to life. My “team” spans across continents, and I’m so grateful for each and every person involved – from southern Italy to northern Thailand and everywhere in between!