YOU are my WHY.

This morning I was asked, What is the "why" behind your coaching practice? Why do you do what you do? Has it changed since you first started coaching? I really appreciate the opportunity to reflect on the values behind my motivation. I think it's important to remain connected to the "why" in order to live a life with meaning and intention. A fair question for me, as I do a lot of work around intention and values in my sessions with clients.

As a resilience coach, I work with people to learn to withstand adversity and move through difficult life events with their heart intact. We work together to reframe, develop greater self awareness, and insight. To let go of resentments and even forgive in order to step into the most powerful and effective version of themselves.

The work I do is a direct result of my experience of sustained childhood abuse and toxic stress, the work I've done to heal, experience freedom, and live a life full of love. While I score a 10 out of 10 on the ACES scale of adverse childhood experiences, (which makes me something of an expert) I have been determined not to be a product of what research has found to be typical outcomes for people like me. ACE's are linked to a high prevalence of substance use, mental illness, chronic health problems, poverty, unemployment and so on. See ACE's scale and study HERE:

I am motivated by the compassion for others that comes from my own suffering, and just as importantly, I am deeply passionate in my belief that humans possess the ability to overcome challenges that otherwise would stunt a meaningful life or perpetuate toxic systems in their relationships.

Resiliency can be developed in anyone, and I believe it to be an essential tool as we navigate the complex times we live in socially, professionally and in our closest relationships.

Life is often messy, dirty, painful. But I see you working hard to grow. To learn. To do it better. To be free. You can and you will.

To all the wild and beautiful flowers pushing through dirt and concrete. YOU are my WHY.