Something is revitalizing about the prospect of change, of turning the page and embracing a fresh start. For many of us, the urge to shift life in a completely different direction feels both exhilarating and daunting.
I'm still processing last month's big news and finding my way forward with an emphasis on self-care, respect, and kindness. It’s been more challenging than I expected, but not impossible. Creating safe spaces and finding healthy outlets has been a big help, though I wasn’t fully prepared for the decisions unfolding. I’m staying informed without becoming consumed. I won’t deny it—my heart feels shattered.
With the new year on the horizon, I’m determined to keep looking forward. I’m setting goals for my coaching practice and reflecting on the journey that’s brought me here.
The Influence of the Written Word
After years of working in professional services, I felt something inside nudging me toward a change. Call it intuition or just the realization that life is too short to stay comfortable for too long. In 2023, I ventured into professional writing, publishing two collaborations, and sharing my journey through a challenging marriage and into a life and career that has tested, nourished, unsettled, and sometimes disappointed me, yet still left me striving for more. Writing proved to be incredibly therapeutic; I loved sharing my story. Even with a small audience, I could see the impact it made.
As a learning professional, I’ve witnessed many individuals transition into coaching, but I never initially desired to follow that path. From a practical perspective—and with a doctoral degree already in hand—I didn’t feel the need to add more credentials to my name. However, during the collaborative book process, my perspective shifted. I met many certified coaches, each with unique journeys and backgrounds different from mine, yet we all shared a common goal: helping people live life to the fullest and become the best version of themselves.
Journey to Coaching
Coaching is a profession that’s rooted in both art and science. Earning a coaching certificate wasn’t just about learning how to help others; it was about deeply understanding myself first. It required me to confront limiting beliefs, practice vulnerability, and embrace continuous growth. As I dove into coursework, engaged in real-life coaching sessions, and studied various methodologies, I realized that coaching is more than a skillset—it’s a way of living.
At the same time, I felt like I had to tackle everything all at once. In any coaching program, you’re surrounded by ambitious entrepreneurs, and the pressure to establish an LLC, create a website, and draft a business plan can feel overwhelming. But as an overachiever, I couldn’t resist diving in. I charged full steam ahead, designing a website probably sooner than needed. I was determined to complete my coaching hours within a year to apply for certification, convinced I could juggle it all while working full-time.
I was in for a rude awakening. I faced a major conflict in my professional life—the second one in my career—and struggled with passing my recorded coaching sessions with my mentor as quickly as I’d hoped. Discouraged, I doubted my decision and even put coaching on hold for several months. But eventually, I realized how close I was to finishing and felt a renewed sense of purpose. I returned with a mindset that embraced coaching as part of my true path, knowing that my choices wouldn’t always resonate with everyone—and being okay with that.
This process has transformed me on a personal level. I’m not just preparing to help others navigate their journeys—I’m also reimagining mine. The tools I’ve acquired give me confidence in my career and how I show up for myself and others in life.
Living Life to the Fullest—Now
The thing about major life shifts is that they often remind us of the fragility of time. It’s easy to delay our dreams, to tell ourselves, “I’ll pursue my passion someday,” but deep down, we know that someday never comes unless we actively make space for it. I'm so grateful I took the leap into writing and eventually coaching. It was challenging, but the time invested was worth it. I’m not fully dedicated to this space yet, as practical matters like finances and life events still play a role. However, I can see myself making that transition in the future.
My past health and personal challenges have taught me valuable lessons, especially the importance of living in the present and boldly pursuing my dreams without waiting for the "perfect time." Life is happening now. Embracing this mindset has allowed me to focus on happiness, gratitude, and purpose in my day-to-day existence. Whether it’s savoring my morning coffee, spending time with loved ones, or tackling a new project, every moment becomes an opportunity to live fully. So go for it—take that trip, get the new sweater, use those vacation days, and try out that new recipe! What’s holding you back?
Looking Forward to the Year Ahead
Looking ahead to the coming year, I feel a deep excitement, even with all the uncertainty in the world. I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t scared—scared of certain people, events, and the vast unknown. But I can’t let fear keep me in a bubble.
The newness of my coaching career is full of promise, and I’m ready to lean into this next chapter with confidence and curiosity. I’m setting goals that challenge me to grow professionally and personally, and I’m eager to work with others seeking transformation in their lives.
This year, I’m choosing to focus on three key areas:
- Embracing Growth: In both my career and life, I’m dedicated to staying open to learning and seizing every opportunity. Real growth often comes from discomfort, and it’s in those challenging moments that we uncover who we truly are. If we’re too afraid of risk, we’ll miss out on the beauty waiting beyond our comfort zones. Sometimes, we must embrace discomfort to find a deeper sense of ease and fulfillment.
- Serving Others: As a coach, my goal is to help others unlock their potential and live their most fulfilling lives. Witnessing someone’s transformation is truly one of the greatest rewards of this career path.
- Fostering Happiness: It’s easy to get caught up in goals and to-do lists, but I’m making a conscious effort to savor the happiness in each moment. I’m choosing to stay present and embrace what each day brings.
This year has been challenging and uncomfortable in countless ways, but it’s also been incredibly empowering. It’s just the beginning of an exciting journey, and I'm embracing each lesson, challenge, and victory. I’ve learned that life is far too precious to watch from the sidelines. I’m stepping into 2025 with an open heart and mind, ready to make the most of every opportunity. This is a life shift, and I couldn’t be more prepared for it.