“Your brilliance isn’t something you need to earn—it’s who you already are when you stop living for others and start honoring your truth.”
– Nicola Salter
In a world where women are often expected to play roles defined by others, Nicola Salter is a trailblazer helping them rediscover the power of living authentically. As a leadership coach and transformational mentor, Nicola works with high-performing women—from CEOs to creatives—guiding them to reclaim their voice, redefine success, and live unapologetically in their brilliance. Through her personal story of reinvention and professional work empowering others, she teaches that true brilliance doesn’t come from external validation, but from radical self-trust and alignment.
In this inspiring and soul-stirring conversation, Nicola opens up about the life experiences that led her to walk away from societal expectations and step into her power. She shares practical tools to help women navigate fear, release the need for perfection, and begin the journey of self-discovery. Whether you’re in a period of burnout, at a life crossroads, or simply craving something more meaningful, Nicola’s message is clear: your brilliance is already within you—you just need to make space for it to rise.
Thank you so much for joining us, Nicola! Our readers would love to get to know you a bit better. Can you tell us a bit about your backstory?
Thank you, Stacey. It’s always wonderful being here. As you mentioned, I work with women in leadership, creative industries, and entrepreneurship to help them redefine who they are and what success means to them. I guide them through personal transformation so they can gain a fresh perspective on their lives and accomplishments—and more importantly, on what’s next. I’ve walked that path myself, and now it’s a privilege to help other women do the same.
What does it mean to “live in your brilliance”?
It means no longer living someone else’s version of your life. It’s that shift from constantly performing for others to finally showing up as your true self. Sometimes it starts with burnout, or a quiet nudge that grows louder over time until you say, “I can’t do this anymore.” That’s not a breakdown—it’s actually the beginning of your brilliance. It’s the moment when you decide to unapologetically live your own story.
Was there a turning point in your life that led you to embrace your brilliance?
Yes, there was. It took the end of a long relationship and a divorce to wake me up. I had been living my partner’s dream, not mine. Even though no one explicitly told me I couldn’t pursue my own goals, I just fell into that pattern. Turning 50 was a major turning point. I felt completely disconnected from myself and knew I had to change. So I took time to be alone, reflect, and reimagine my life—from finances to friendships. I had to rebuild from the inside out and find my own brilliance before I could help others do the same.
What were the first steps you took toward living your own story?
The very first step was realizing I had been living according to other people’s expectations. I had to ask myself whose voice was guiding my decisions—was it mine, or someone else’s? I also started questioning what “success” really meant to me. That clarity only came when I slowed down and created space for reflection. I stopped rushing and started listening to my own inner compass. That’s where the shift began.
Why do you think so many women struggle to live authentically?
We’re taught to be peacemakers, to support others, and often that means we abandon ourselves in the process. We seek safety in relationships, approval from others, or identity through external roles. But real safety—the kind that sustains us—comes from within. Until we recognize that, we keep chasing validation and living by someone else’s script.
You mention “seasons of stillness.” Why are those so important?
Those quiet seasons are essential. Society pushes the hustle, but brilliance often emerges when you pause. In my case, I literally retreated to a friend’s guest house and allowed myself the gift of solitude. That’s when the real inner work began. When we stop reacting out of fear and start trusting ourselves, unexpected clarity—and even financial abundance—can show up. Stillness isn’t laziness; it’s preparation.
How did creating space change your life?
It was everything. Creating physical and emotional space helped me reconnect with who I was beyond the noise. It wasn’t about quitting everything—it was about aligning what I was doing with who I truly was. When I let go of the need to hustle constantly, things actually started flowing more naturally—clients, opportunities, even unexpected income. It was proof that when you live in your truth, the universe responds.
How do you begin helping women step into their own brilliance?
I help them notice when they’re outsourcing their power. We look at their habits—how often they seek approval or avoid conflict by staying small. Then we shift that. I teach them to become their own safe space and to treat themselves with the same love and reverence they offer to others. When your inner voice becomes kinder, everything changes. That’s when decisions become grounded, not scattered.
What role does fear play in this journey?
Fear is a huge part of the process. It’s what keeps women in unhappy relationships, jobs, or environments. But fear can also be a guide. I help women see that fear is often just a signal that change is needed. When you face fear and take aligned action anyway, you build confidence. It’s not about eliminating fear—it’s about walking forward despite it.
You mentioned your client who struggled with safety. How do you guide someone like that?
We take baby steps. I help her recognize the moments she looks outside herself for validation—whether it’s asking someone’s opinion on her appearance or choices. Each time she notices that pattern, she’s reclaiming a piece of her power. The goal is to gradually become the source of your own safety, so you can trust your own voice.
What are some simple ways women can begin living in their brilliance today?
Start by creating quiet time for yourself. Notice how you speak to yourself. Begin saying no when something doesn’t align. Stop betraying your truth just to keep the peace. Even something as small as not seeking external validation is a huge step. You’re building self-trust with every intentional choice.
How can women overcome the fear of being alone or unsupported?
I’ve had to face that head-on. My family has passed on, and I don’t have children. I had to rely on myself in a big way. It’s not easy—but it’s deeply empowering. You might cry, doubt, or feel overwhelmed—but those are growing pains. Life isn’t punishing you—it’s shaping you. As you take baby steps and connect with others in new ways, you start to discover strengths you never knew you had.
What mindset shifts helped you stay focused through the tough times?
I kept myself grounded by setting goals. I refused to fall into victim mode. When fear crept in, I used it as fuel. I encourage my clients to do the same—stay busy with tasks that are aligned with your goals. That way, your energy stays focused on what you want to create, not on what you’re afraid of losing.
Once you started living in your brilliance, what changes did you notice in your life?
I felt a deeper connection with the women I served. My empathy grew. I could speak openly and vulnerably. I stopped tolerating situations that didn’t align with my values. I became more intuitive and more discerning. I started showing up fully—without apology. That shift created more meaningful relationships and greater fulfillment.
Do you think living in your brilliance makes you a better leader or coach?
Absolutely. It’s not about having all the answers—it’s about being present, authentic, and in service. When you lead from that place, people respond. You become a catalyst for others to step into their brilliance. And the impact is far-reaching—at work, at home, in the world.
You have a powerful masterclass coming up. Can you tell us more about it?
Yes! It’s called Redefine Yourself and it’s a six-month masterclass designed for women who feel stuck—even if they look successful on paper. It’s for women ready to move beyond outdated ideas of success and align with something deeper. You’ll get five hours of coaching per month—four in a group, one individually with me—and a monthly meditation session. It’s intimate, powerful, and life-changing.
What kind of transformation can women expect from this masterclass?
They’ll gain clarity, confidence, and a renewed sense of purpose. They’ll break old patterns and discover new ways of living and leading. We go deep—emotionally, spiritually, and practically. The community is small, so everyone receives personalized support. The goal is sustainable transformation, not just inspiration.
Where can people sign up?
Visit www.redefineyourselfmasterclass.com to book a free 30-minute discovery call with me. I want to ensure it’s the right fit before you commit. We only have 12 spots available to keep the group intimate and focused, so I can work closely with each woman.
How can our readers further follow your work online?
You can find me at nicolasalter.com. I’m also on Instagram and Facebook as @nicolasalter. Feel free to reach out or DM me—I’d love to hear your story and see how I can support your journey.
Nicola, thank you so much for this enlightening and heartfelt conversation. You’re doing incredible work, and I know this masterclass is going to change lives. I’m honored to be a part of it.
Thank you, Stacey. I loved being here with you today. Your support and insight mean the world. I can’t wait to connect again and continue this journey of helping women step into their brilliance.
Ready to step into your brilliance and realign your life with purpose? Sign up now at redefineyourselfmasterclass.com.
