Why I Became a Life Coach
On Friday, Nov 9th, 2018, I took a leap of faith and started a coach training program. During the hour drive to Los Angeles, I felt scared, apprehensive, and insecure. My inner critic raged with thoughts of: Am I good enough? Am I smart enough? Am I too old to start a new career? It took all my courage to put one foot in front of the other and cross the threshold into that conference room.
In the months leading up to this day, I felt a lack of purpose and meaning creeping in. With my children off to college and on their own, I realized that a chapter of my life was coming to a close. I didn’t have a clear vision of what the next phase would look like. I knew I wanted to find a way to help others, but I wasn’t sure how to do that.
Two pivotal events occurred.
The first was a conversation with one of my friends who was struggling to adjust to life after helping her husband through cancer treatment. I listened intently because I really wanted to help her move through her feelings so she could begin to envision a new and different type of life. I noticed that I often found myself supporting friends and family during difficult transitions. I realized this was one of my strengths and the deep connections formed while in this role filled my life with meaning.
The second experience was an 8-week program on using mindfulness and coping skills to overcome stress and anxiety. This program had an immediate and positive impact on my family’s connection and communication. I was motivated to share these fundamental life skills promoting emotional wellness, stress management, and healthy relationships with my community.
Inspired by these two experiences, my career search eventually led me to Life Coaching.
During the coach training program, I went on a transformational journey of self-discovery.
I learned about my strengths of connection, empathy, and intuitive listening. I learned I struggled with feelings of self-doubt, worthiness, and belonging.
I learned I am valued whether or not I’m accomplishing a goal or being productive. I learned asking for help was not a sign of weakness. I learned if I prioritized my needs, I would still be loved by my family.
I learned being brave, courageous, and vulnerable makes me stronger and more empowered. I learned it’s ok if I don’t have all the answers right now.
My journey through the program went from not knowing what my next chapter would look like to renewed energy of a life filled with meaning and purpose. I have a deep desire to help people just like me overcome their challenges, identify what they really want, and develop a plan to get there. I can help motivated people who want to dream big and lean into their vulnerability in order to design their life to feel more engaged and joyful.
Are you looking for meaning in your life? Have you been showing up for others and now it’s time to show up for yourself? Don’t let your current struggles or your inner critic hold you back from living the life you desire. If I did it, so can you.
I am here to partner with you to make that happen.
You’re worth it.
“It’s not what you are that holds you back, it’s what you think you’re not.”
—Denis Waitley
