In 2018, for the first time in my life I "hit the wall" at work and, for my own well-being, my supervisor transitioned me off of a major project I was leading. I felt like a quitter and a failure. I was demotivated and uncertain about what I wanted both personally and professionally. My work/life balance was not healthy, I didn't have a clear understanding of myself, and I couldn't figure out how best to move forward.

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Seeing some of my struggle, a colleague suggested working with an Executive Coach. Although I only had a general understanding of what an Executive Coach was and did, I decided to go ahead and try working with a Coach. I was fortunate and my employer was willing to invest in me and pay for coaching as part of my personal development and training. After interviewing several people, I found a coach that resonated with me and we entered into an 8-month coaching agreement. We completed the sessions remotely, using telephone and video conference. Given the timing was pre-Covid that was not the norm but, with busy schedules and factoring in the time travel would have required, it was the best option for me.

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If I had to choose one word to describe what working with Coach was like, I'd tell you it was transformational. In two words, I'd say it was life changing. One of the most profound things I realized is that learning about yourself, focusing on you first, is key. I walked away with a different and improved understanding of myself and with more comfort and confidence in who I am and what I wanted. I also had more tools to apply which increased my ability to achieve goals and positive outcomes working with others. One of the realizations I solidified was that my 5-year plan included retiring from my corporate job to focus on our farm business and other priorities. I recognized that my motivations were not climbing the corporate ladder but rather making a tangible contribution and a difference. I also learned that I had an interest in coaching and that assisting others to transform and achieve their goals is very fulfilling for me.

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I accepted one final challenge as Project Manager of a multi-year corporate transformation project. It was the most challenging and rewarding experience of my career and a chance to apply the skills and wisdom I had gained over the years. During that period, I also focused on informally coaching and mentoring colleagues, helping them to grow and advance themselves. In spring of 2023, the project concluded very successfully and I followed through with my plan to retire from corporate life.

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At that time, I decided to honour my passion and become a Life Coach. I wanted to enhance my knowledge and skills in coaching to continue my own growth and transformation. I also wanted to position myself to skillfully and effectively coach others and, in doing so, support them in their transformation and ability to shine brighter.

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Recognizing the power of coaching, but also the responsibility, I choose to complete the Rhodes Wellness College Life Coach Certification. The program is certified by the International Coaching Federation (ICF) and is both intense and extensive. Through classroom and practicum, the six month program places equal focus on learning the knowledge and theory of coaching and on applying and practicing your coaching skills.