My Journey: Becoming a Coach

The Spark that Led to Coaching

When I first started working with a coach, I was both intrigued and intimidated by the idea of coaching. I admired the skill set, but I wasn’t sure if I had what it took to step into that role. However, as I continued my self-reflection and awareness journey, I realized that I had the most fun when I was helping others become the best versions of themselves. Their successes felt like my successes, and that feeling was exhilarating.

The turning point came when I was working with my career coach. I was doing an exercise on visualizing my dream job, and suddenly, it became clear—I wanted to help people navigate the same types of challenges where I once felt lost and unsupported. Workplace struggles, including being bullied and undermined, had left a deep impact on me. I knew firsthand how hard it was to navigate those experiences alone. That realization fueled my decision to become a coach.

The realization was entirely my own, but conversations with my career coach helped solidify my decision. He provided resources, guidance, and encouragement, allowing me to explore the field in a structured way. Ultimately, I knew that coaching was the right path for me.

The Challenges Before Coaching

Before I became a coach, I had sought coaching in two different areas of my life. The first was when I began my self-reflection journey. My coach helped me identify my limiting beliefs and guided me through the process of working through them. The second time I worked with a coach was during a job search. Having a coach kept me on track, provided much-needed accountability, and offered a support system when the inevitable rejections became overwhelming.

Through these experiences, I saw the profound impact that coaching could have. I realized that what had been missing in my career and personal life was a strong advocate—someone to help me see my strengths and push me forward when I felt stuck. I wanted to become that person for others, especially for those afraid to speak up for themselves.

The Learning Process & Training

I officially began my coaching training on January 6 with a program at iACT Center, which is an ICF-approved certification program specialized in ADHD coaching. From the start, I felt fully aligned with my choice.

Surprisingly, I never experienced imposter syndrome while training. I had a deep knowing that this was exactly where I was meant to be. However, the hardest lesson I had to learn was that coaching is not about giving advice—a common misconception. Coaching is about guiding people to their own insights, not telling them what to do.

My lived experiences, including ADHD, cPTSD, workplace challenges, and masking, have shaped my coaching philosophy. These challenges have given me deep empathy and an ability to see struggles from multiple perspectives.

My Coaching Style & Philosophy

At the core of my coaching practice is a holistic approach. I firmly believe that coaching cannot be limited to just ADHD, menopause, or career struggles in isolation—because everything is interconnected. Nutrition, sleep habits, emotional regulation, and mindset all play a role in a person’s well-being and success.

Many coaching approaches focus solely on one aspect of a person’s challenges, but I believe that a whole-person approach leads to the best results. For example, ADHD and menopause influence each other, and both can impact career performance, mental health, and daily routines. Addressing only one of these factors without considering the others would be incomplete.

At the heart of my work is kindness. I believe that everyone deserves kindness and a safe space to share their story. My personal hardships and experiences with workplace bullying have shaped my deep commitment to creating that safe space for my clients.

The Transformation: Becoming a Coach

The most rewarding part of coaching so far has been helping others see their own potential. Seeing my clients grow, break through barriers, and step into their confidence has been one of the most fulfilling aspects of my journey.

Through coaching, I have also changed personally. I find myself becoming more open-minded, more present in conversations, and more attuned to listening deeply rather than rushing to provide solutions. Everything in my journey so far has felt like it is falling into place, as if I am being guided toward this path.

I knew coaching was the right decision for me when I realized that every session, every breakthrough, and every conversation left me feeling energized and inspired. My feelings from the beginning have not changed—I still know this is the right path.

What’s Next in My Coaching Journey?

Looking ahead, I have a vision of becoming a thought leader in the coaching space. I want to continue expanding my knowledge, particularly in areas related to nutrition and hormones, and how they impact ADHD and menopause. These areas are often overlooked, yet they play a crucial role in mental health and executive function.

I see my coaching business growing rapidly, expanding into courses, group coaching programs, and eventually speaking engagements. My goal is to broaden my impact so that more people can benefit from the insights and strategies that have helped me and my clients.

Advice for Future Coaches

If you’re considering becoming a coach, my advice is to look into programs accredited by the International Coaching Federation (ICF). Getting certified is incredibly valuable—not just for credibility, but because it provides you with essential skills that set great coaches apart from casual mentors.

Coaching might be the right path for you if you are empathetic, open to truly listening, and willing to guide rather than advise. A great coach doesn’t tell people what to do—they help people discover their own answers.

If you’re curious about coaching, start small. Visit the ICF website, read about different certification paths, and explore whether this aligns with your strengths and passions. Coaching is an incredibly rewarding career, and if it’s the right fit for you, it can be life-changing—not just for your clients, but for yourself as well.

Coaching Has Transformed My Life—Could It Transform Yours?

If my story resonates with you, or if you’re considering coaching as a career, I’d love to connect. Whether you’re looking for guidance in your personal journey or exploring coaching as a profession, I invite you to reach out.

Schedule a session today and take the first step toward creating meaningful change.