We strive for a fulfilling, stable life both professionally and privately. We want to advance in our careers while also being present for our families. Yet everyday life often tells a different story — one of time pressure and lack of time, high expectations and the feeling of not truly doing enough, neither at work nor at home. Yet it is precisely what we demonstrate to children that shapes not only their future but also our own mindset — Jay Feldmann is convinced of this. Being a role model does not mean being flawless, but acting consistently and dealing openly with setbacks. Learning takes time, failure is part of the process, and challenges help us grow. Jay Feldmann experienced this himself. He grew up on a farm in Münsterland — between a horse stable and holiday apartments. In his twenties, the family business was on the verge of bankruptcy. “That was a deep turning point in my life — emotionally, financially and existentially,” he says. “But it was also the starting point of my personal hero’s journey. Because that’s when I realized: obstacles are not stop signs, they are tests. They challenge us to change our thinking, take responsibility and grow beyond ourselves.”

Turning Point - After this experience, he made a firm decision that neither he nor his family should ever face such existential situations again. So he began building an online publishing business — with e-books and digital products designed to reach readers worldwide. Success proved him right. Today, Jay Feldmann is an internationally certified Human Performance Coach with more than 15 years of experience in personal development. He works with entrepreneurs, executives, creatives, athletes and parents. “Many of my clients are at a turning point — professionally or personally — and feel that they are ready to become a new version of themselves in order to live the life they truly want. They no longer want to compromise between success and quality of life.” In coaching, he supports these people in achieving their goals. His conviction: “True change does not begin on the outside, but on the inside — with one’s identity.”

Energy, Work, Love - His approach is based on three key areas of life: Energy, Work and Love. Energy refers to our daily energy level, our physical and mental health, and the decisive factors behind it such as sleep, nutrition and movement. Work stands for professional fulfillment — whether self-employed or employed — for creative output, productivity and personal visions. And last but not least, Love focuses on the quality of personal relationships — with a life partner, children, family, friends or colleagues. The goal is to help people perform at a high level while also finding fulfillment in other areas of life. His own journey from back then shapes the mindset with which he works today. “When I realized what is possible with the right mindset and clear strategies, I went to the United States to train there as a certified coach. Because I firmly believe that every person is capable of consciously shaping their life — exactly the way they truly want it. And if I can help with that, it is the greatest fulfillment for me.”

Highs and Lows - Today he leads two successful companies — his coaching and media business, as well as a farm with riding facilities and several holiday apartments that he runs together with his wife Sarah. “She is also the one who has accompanied me through all the highs and lows and has always supported me — for almost 20 years now. I am extremely grateful for that. Because even though I travel a lot for my business, my family is and always will be my center.”

In his role as a father of two young sons — Leo is four and Jona is six years old — it has become especially clear to him how strongly children are shaped by role models. “It’s not about what we say, but about what we demonstrate.” As parents, they try to encourage a growth mindset in their children. “Our boys should know that anything can be learned — with perseverance, curiosity and a healthy approach to mistakes. We don’t only praise results, but above all effort, courage and willingness to learn. And we try to be present — not with gifts, but with genuine attention. True to the motto: ‘Kids want your presence, not your presents.’” Whether in family life or in coaching, Jay Feldmann’s work is always about reconnecting people with what he calls their inner compass — with a mindset that makes change possible. A central element of his coaching philosophy is the concept of the hero — someone who not only thinks of themselves but has strength and power for two. “Because every person is the hero or heroine of their own life story. And it is never too late to rewrite the script.”