Avra Lyraki is a Μaster Certified Executive Coach (MCC, ICF), Keynote speaker, and communication expert who has spent decades working closely with senior leaders across the globe. With a background that bridges corporate leadership and deep human-centered coaching, Avra’s work focuses on helping individuals manage themselves before they manage others. Humans of Fuzia is featuring Avra to spotlight her thoughtful approach to leadership, self-awareness, and emotional intelligence—insights that deeply resonate with our 5 million+ global community committed to supporting women, and creating more conscious, empowered leaders worldwide.
Q: Avra, to begin with, what inspired you to start your own entrepreneurial journey?
I always had entrepreneurship in my mind, even when I was working as a senior corporate executive. I was in HR, learning, and development, and I had established the first internal executive coaching program for the largest bank in Greece. When the right opportunity came, the timing felt right. But I want to emphasize that entrepreneurship is not just about quitting a corporate job to follow a dream. It takes years of preparation—building knowledge, gaining certifications, and equipping yourself with the skills needed to truly stand out. In my case, the seeds were planted nearly 15 years before I actually started my company.
Q: Who do you primarily work with today, and what does your work focus on?
My main audience is C-suite executives. Although my brand is called LifeSelfCoaching, my work centers on executive coaching and executive communication, based on ICF principles. Over time, I realized that even conversations with CEOs eventually come down to self-management—how they regulate emotions, coach themselves, and stay grounded under pressure. Senior leaders carry immense responsibility and often don’t have people who can truly challenge them. My work is very focused and personal. I prefer working with fewer clients and dedicating myself fully to helping them achieve excellent results.
Q: Many entrepreneurs struggle with imposter syndrome. Have you experienced self-doubt in your journey?
I see challenges as opportunities. For me, it was never about feeling “not enough,” but rather asking, “How can I become more capable to face this challenge?” That mindset motivates me instead of paralyzing me. I often speak about the art of bricolage—doing the best you can with whatever you have right now. We don’t know everything, and that’s okay. What matters is how we move forward with curiosity and intention.
Q: Looking back, is there anything you would have done differently when starting out?
You don’t know what you don’t know. What I truly believe in is staying curious and open-minded. The world is evolving incredibly fast, especially with technology and AI. Continuous learning is essential. What I can say is that the work I do today feels deeply fulfilling. Entrepreneurship doesn’t feel like a job—it’s something that makes you want to wake up every morning and contribute meaningfully.
Q: What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced as an entrepreneur?
You must work intelligently, strategically, and motivate yourself consistently. There are moments when you feel completely on your own. That’s where self-coaching becomes powerful—learning to speak to yourself the way you would speak to your best friend. Entrepreneurship shapes your personality. It teaches persistence, humility, and self-awareness. You have to remove unhealthy ego, stay open to learning, and remain connected to the world around you.
Q: How do you define success—personally and professionally?
For me, success is happiness. Not as a constant state, but as meaningful moments. Health—mental and physical—is essential. So is creativity, curiosity, and being fully present in what you’re doing. Purpose isn’t always about passion; it’s about those moments when you’re so immersed that you lose track of time. That’s where fulfillment lives.
Q: Is there anything exciting you’re currently working on?
I speak globally at conferences, both virtually and in person. One topic I’m especially focused on right now is how leaders can communicate with Gen Z. Many senior leaders find this challenging, yet Gen Z represents the future of work. I explore how leaders can better coach, understand, and connect with this generation—because the future is already here.
Q: What kind of legacy do you hope to leave behind through your work?
I hope people remember me through the moments we shared—the awareness we created together. I still remember my mentors and coaches, especially those who stretched me with positive intention. If I can help people uncover hidden parts of themselves and see the world more broadly, that’s a legacy I’d be proud of.
“Do the best you can with what you have right now—and stay curious enough to keep becoming who you’re meant to be.” — Avra Lyraki
Connect with Avra Lyraki:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/avra-lyraki
https://lifeselfcoaching.com/
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