My Story

Growing Up a Good Girl

I've always felt very ordinary, nothing special. Like most girls of my generation I was encouraged by my parents and teachers to keep a low profile. Keep your head down and your nose clean, don't make a fuss and all will be well. I was a good girl.

In those times and in the settings I found myself - school, with family or friends' parents - this advice was a recipe for success. Everyone was pleased with me, everyone liked me. That's how girls should be, right?

I continued with my good girl strategy at work, replacing pleasing parents and teachers with pleasing bosses. I was slowly working my way through the ranks, priding myself on being whoever I needed to be for each manager that came my way, I would 'get along' with everyone and never 'let anyone down'.

But honestly - the constant shape-shifting was exhausting and I felt like I didn't really have my own identity. I didn't know who I was unless a manager was heaping on the praise. When it came to times that I was asked for my thoughts, I often couldn't find the words.

My Coaching Story

Coaching is what helped me find my voice, to know myself deeply and to come to accept it, flaws and all, whilst recognising I'm always a work in progress. I was able to establish my values and what lights a fire in me, understanding where I find myself in flow and how I can make a contribution to the world that feels meaningful for me.

Coaching has been the tool that finally helped me let go of my need for approval from others. Now I want to help others to work out who they want to be, what they want to stand for and what do do about it.