Introducing... My Coach Leah!

I started writing this post in February 2021… and now we’re here. I know what held me back from moving forward and hitting publish: fear. Fear of putting myself out there. Fear that others might judge me. Fear that I would fail.

This photo seemed like the only choice here. It’s a little trite but also a mantra that always inspires me.

It’s ironic considering that as a coach I work with clients to take action. Examining what they are afraid of, what has held them back, and where they have encountered roadblocks. So rather than be someone who can’t do and therefore teaches, I am resurrecting this draft, even if it feels like the cat’s already out of the bag.

If you follow me on Instagram, you likely know that in 2021 I became a certified personal and executive coach through The CaPP Institute. It may sound cliche, but coaching feels as natural to me as breathing and when I am working with clients, I feel like I am my fullest and highest self.

But what exactly is a coach? Great question! The International Coaching Federation (ICF) defines coaching as “partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential.” Through coaching you will develop insights into your behaviors and ambitions which will enable you to achieve your goals. Whereas psychotherapy explores your past and supports mental health, coaching is a present and forward-looking process, it does not treat medical conditions. As a coach, I help clients uncover what is holding them back, so that they can get “unstuck,” and develop actionable steps. My role is to support clients on their journey, celebrating their bravery and vulnerability, while also holding them accountable.

Ok cool, but what exactly do you coach people on? How do people work with you? Is this your full time job? Again, all good questions. I focus on career and executive coaching, helping clients with everything from workforce reentry to career change, interview prep, managerial skills, setting boundaries, and more. Currently, clients work with me 1:1, you can learn more and contact me if you’re interested or know someone who is here. Right now, coaching isn’t my full time job, but I hope that one day soon it will be.

Awesome! What inspired you to become a coach? Ahhh, the other question that I tend to get… After years (really decades) of being a sounding board, thought-partner, pep-talk provider, etc. for friends and family, I had an “aha moment,” and realized that what I was bordering on was coaching. I say bordering as I believe it is crucial to have proper training before calling yourself a coach and working as one. I looked at the various training programs available and when I found The CaPP Institute, with its focus on Positive Psychology, I knew I had found my program and my people.

Coaching often feels like a separate part of my life and by sharing it with you, I hope to continue integrating it with all the other aspects of me. I invite you to follow my coaching Instagram @mycoachleah and if you have any questions or would like to discuss working together, please reach out.

Questions? Comments? Have you ever worked with a coach? Leave it in the comments!