Early Life and Background
Kristina Karlsson, fondly known as “kikki,” grew up on a small farm in rural Sweden, where she developed a deep appreciation for nature and creativity. Her journey began at the age of 22 when she ventured far from home to explore the world, ultimately landing in Australia. Armed with little money and a dream, Kristina was determined to create a fulfilling life for herself.
The Birth of kikki.K
In her new home, Kristina experienced uncertainty about her future. A pivotal moment occurred during a 3 a.m. bout of frustration when her partner, Paul, encouraged her to write down her dreams. This exercise set the stage for the inception of kikki.K, a global Swedish design and stationery business. Kristina and Paul sold everything they owned to launch their dream, opening their first store in November 1996.
Over the next 20 years, kikki.K evolved into a beloved brand, celebrated for its authentic, purpose-driven philosophy and Swedish design aesthetic. With retail locations spanning across six countries and an extensive online presence, the company served stationery enthusiasts in over 150 countries.
Challenges and Resilience
Despite her success, Kristina faced numerous challenges, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to significant difficulties for the business. After a heart-wrenching departure from kikki.K in 2021, Kristina found solace in reflection and embraced the opportunity to pursue her passion anew.
Dream Life and New Ventures
Today, Kristina is the founder of Dream Life, a venture dedicated to empowering individuals worldwide to discover and chase their dreams. With a mission to inspire over 101 million people, Kristina encourages others to write down their dreams and take actionable steps toward achieving them. Her coaching programs, global book club, and new stationery brand reflect her commitment to personal growth and wellbeing.
Kristina’s journey embodies resilience and the power of dreaming big. She advocates for women to pursue their aspirations without limitations, emphasizing the importance of staying true to one’s values and purpose.
Recognition and Impact
Kristina has garnered international acclaim as a sought-after coach, mentor, and speaker. Her experiences and insights resonate with audiences, offering valuable tools for personal and professional growth. Her story serves as a powerful reminder that with determination, optimism, and commitment to self-improvement, anyone can overcome challenges and realize their dreams.
Conclusion
Kristina Karlsson’s remarkable journey from a small Swedish farm to the global stage illustrates the importance of resilience, creativity, and a genuine desire to inspire others. As she continues to empower people worldwide, Kristina’s passion for helping others create their dream lives remains at the forefront of her mission. Through her work, she invites everyone to join her in writing their dreams on paper and transforming them into reality.
