Ten years ago, I was unfamiliar with the concept of being a coach or being coached. I had heard of people working with coaches, primarily in sports, but the idea of executive, leadership, and health coaches was new to me. Over the past five years or so, I have focused intensely on my passions and how to build my life around them. The saying, "work to live, not live to work," comes to mind. Even my day job integrates elements of my personal passions within the complex world of human resources and public sector work. Detailing the journey that brought me here in chronological order would be overwhelming, so I'll simply say that through years of meditation, journaling, courses, articles, videos, books, joining a Buddhist temple, and attending silent retreats, everything I've studied and done has led me to this moment. This present moment. I am grateful.
Observing many friends, acquaintances, and strangers grapple with anxiety, depression, health issues, and stress, I recognized that everyone needs some level of support. While I can't help everyone, maybe I could help someone in need simply by listening, being present, and accepting without judgment. Although I'm not a counselor or psychologist, my expertise aligns with a level of Maslow's hierarchy of needs - probably the 3rd level up after physiological needs and safety. As long as those needs are met, and someone is in the love and belonging, esteem, or self-actualization stage, I believe a coach can be a great asset.
I love to help those who strive to achieve their goals but may need accountability or someone to listen as they navigate challenges. I can be that person. That coach. So, when I realized that, I decided to seek out a way to do that. After some internet searches, I found the perfect program, Guiding Mindful Change. I enrolled immediately and after speaking with the founder, Billie Frances, NBC-HWC, I knew I was on the right path.
Now I am a certified Mindful Change Coach, on the path to becoming National Board Certified. Yes, there are many coaches out there. If you are curious about working with a coach and how they could help, talk to a few and see who you resonate with. It's great if you can find someone you feel comfortable talking to and that you feel safe to share with. I weave mindfulness into my coaching style because I know how much mindfulness has helped me with my own self-awareness, stress, and anxiety. I want to share that with others.
Mindfully yours,
Anika
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