Sharon Rolph, a 77-year-old behavioral scientist and author, has spent her life exploring human potential and helping others discover their purpose. From overcoming a childhood marked by invisibility to becoming the “Queen of Courage,” Sharon embodies resilience and wisdom. Humans of Fuzia is featuring her story to inspire our global community of 5 million members—reminding us all that it’s never too late to embrace your spark, find your voice, and live with fulfillment.
Q: Sharon, could you share a little about your early journey and what led you toward personal growth and helping others?
I’ve always been curious about potential—my own and others’. From a young age, I would help my siblings with flashcards and later supported friends with resumes. But my real drive came from a deep desire to feel safe and visible. After retirement, I realized how much of my life had been spent in the shadows. That’s when I began intentionally exploring self-expression and personal growth.
Q: You’ve spoken about “feeling invisible” in your earlier years. How did that shift for you?
During my first coaching class after retirement, I had this sudden realization—it’s not okay to be invisible. That moment changed everything. I began embracing visibility, wearing hats to symbolize self-expression, and leaning into my role as an influencer, even though it felt foreign at first. Over time, I understood that I wanted to light fires in others—to help them reconnect with what truly matters.
Q: Tell us more about your work around retirement and purpose.
Many people prepare financially for retirement but neglect the emotional transition. They lose their titles, projects, or roles and sometimes forget who they are. My work focuses on helping people rediscover their inner spark—the passions and truths that make them come alive. In my book, Fresh Courage in Retirement: Finding Purpose, Essence, and Fulfillment, I guide readers to reflect on their lives and uncover what gives them joy and meaning.
Q: What’s your perspective on women in leadership today?
For a long time, women either didn’t feel they had a voice or weren’t truly heard. I’ve been there—sitting in meetings with important leaders and realizing I didn’t have the courage to speak up. Over the years, I’ve grown bolder, learning to voice what others might be afraid to say. Courage has been my constant companion, reminding me that worry is just a misuse of imagination. Women bring innovation, empathy, and resilience, and the world needs that more than ever.
Q: What message would you like to share with aspiring women leaders and entrepreneurs?
Never underestimate the power of a planted seed. Sometimes fulfillment comes step by step—you don’t need to know the entire path, just the next step. And as Thomas Wolfe said, if we don’t use our talents, we fail ourselves. But when we use them fully, we succeed gloriously. My message is simple: live from what matters to you. That’s where courage, fulfillment, and joy are found.
“As long as you’re alive, it’s never too late to reignite your spark and live from what truly matters to you.” — Sharon Rolph
Connect with Sharon Rolph
You can connect with Sharon on Instagram or visit her website SharonRolph.com.
Want to be featured?
If you’d like to be featured in the Humans of Fuzia series, email us at fuziatalent@fuzia.com.
