Testimonial from a coaching client (in her own words)

I wanted to share this testimonial as I feel that it really goes to the core of why I do what I do as a coach. I think sometimes coaching gets a bad wrap. Lots of coaches training other people to be coaches - and that’s cool if that’s your bag. But my focus always has and always will be working 1:1 with clients. This is where I know I do my best work. This client was referred to me by a mutual friend - she was at a crossroads in life and didn’t know what to do next. She was feeling anxious, had crippling imposter syndrome yet admits she was maintaining to the outside world that everything was ok. I am so proud of this client, and hope her journey helps and inspires someone else.

‘I was introduced to Emily in her capacity as a business coach by a good friend. Recognising that I had been struggling with some significant life changes, she knew that Emily’s unique style could help me break through some of the unhelpful thoughts, feelings and limiting beliefs I had created a narrative around for myself.

On the surface, I had perfected an appearance of success, happiness and fulfilment, however inside I felt very differently.

I had gone through a marriage breakdown and with that the joy that is modern day dating – I mean, you could write several books on that subject alone. A change of job with the insecurity and imposter syndrome that serves up when you find yourself in a much bigger pond. Financial isolation – suddenly being the only breadwinner – make or break, win or fail, always a step away from either providing for my daughter or not. Oh, and don’t forget perimenopause – thanks! It was a lot, however on the surface I maintained an appearance of isn’t life great. 

The reality is that it was anxiety inducing on a daily basis. Why did this happen to me? Too fat, not interesting enough, not intelligent enough, didn’t dress well enough, will I ever feel happy again, will I lose my house, will I be a good enough role model for my daughter, am I too quiet - I’m just not good enough. It was on repeat and debilitating.

I needed help with boundaries; a successful people-pleaser in the hope that someone would validate me – that I’m enough as I am.

I couldn’t carry on like that. I was in a loop of despair. I was self aware enough to know that I needed to take a step back from myself and my never-ending thoughts of self loathing and rejection to know that I needed help to reframe and trust my intuition and like myself enough to just know I can actually do anything and to back myself.

When I met Emily, she instantly put me at ease. I unpacked everything that had weighed down heavily on me very quickly. She has an unassuming and non-judgmental way of sitting with you, so you feel completely comfortable doing this. Well timed questions, incredibly pertinent observations and reframing along the way have been a gamechanger for me.

Sometimes when we’re in things ourselves, we fail to see a different way of thinking about something. We can do it for others, in fact I’d say in my role I’m pretty skilled at it, but I just couldn’t apply it to myself. Emily has offered me what I happily did for others but failed daily to do for myself and that is the time and space to consider my thoughts and limiting beliefs and how I could overcome these. 

Steadily we’ve discussed my role at work, navigating relationships with people both professionally and personally - believe me it crosses over, and has helped me to see things as they are. She’s held a mirror up to me and my life and helped me to find my truth, authenticity and challenged me to like myself more than I ever have. 

The beauty of Emily is that there is never any pressure or expectation from her that you continue past that first “unpacking” consultation. That alone is insightful and helpful. She’s happy to support you in whatever capacity is helpful for you. She has many techniques and tools to assist professionally and personally, however importantly it’s a holistic and bespoke experience to suit you. You can expect homework because the magic happens way after the appointments. Whilst you reflect on past experiences and reactions to them, I’ve loved the way its helped me to understand my why and how I can navigate that differently in the future. The results are tangible and immediate if you’re prepared to put the effort and work in.

For me it was a no brainer to continue past the initial consultation, in fact it’s singularly one of the best investments I’ve ever made in myself and has made a considerable difference to my life this year.

My confidence in myself has improved. I think it will always be a work in progress, however I now try to think of myself much more kindly and celebrate the small wins daily. I understand what I’m prepared to tolerate in others and have clearer boundaries and therefore healthier relationships.

The imposter syndrome has lifted – I still get nervous or anxiety with certain situations, which I believe is very human, but it's no longer crippling me daily. I’ve got very comfortable with myself and being ok if I’m not for everyone. I set clear expectations with others. I’ve got my own house in order; taking a look at my financial circumstances and how I can set in place better spending and saving habits, planning more effectively for the future and taking back control. 

Emily is incredibly professional. I think when you talk to someone, a common fear is what if it doesn’t remain confidential. It’s never been a concern with Emily. She is considered, genuinely cares about the working relationship and supports you along your personal journey, however never crosses the line. It’s a supportive yet business like relationship.

There is empathy, but challenge.

Space to talk and listen, yet progression and growth. I can honestly say that every session I’ve had, I’ve come away feeling hopeful and excited for the future. I understand my professional needs much more clearly through Talent Dynamics, I navigate relationships better, I’m moving toward a place of greater financial stability and for the first time in a very long time, I have a sense of strength, calm and contentment that has eluded me.

The growth and reflection has been just incredible and I’m even starting a new venture. Most importantly for me, I know I’m showing my daughter that to like and love ourselves is empowering and with that self belief we can truly create the life we desire. A woman standing in her power.

My journey hasn’t ended, there is still work to do, but if you’re suffering from imposter syndrome, perhaps an eternal people pleaser, navigating life’s challenges as we all do, then just maybe coaching with Emily could be a paradigm shifter for you too. 

So, if you’re on the fence, just take the first step and contact Emily, you honestly won’t regret the investment in yourself. Emily is a sincere, authentic and a skilled professional and I think everyone should have an Emily.’

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If this resonates with you, please get in touch to talk through how we can work together in 1:1 coaching.