What was the main challenge you had before starting coaching?
Before coaching, I felt at a crossroads. I had recently ended a long-term relationship, turned 45, and started a new job. I knew I didn’t want to just keep plodding along, but I also didn’t know what I did want.
I had ideas about further study, moving location, and a complete career change, but the options felt overwhelming. I didn’t want to drift into the next five years. I wanted to make proactive decisions based on me, rather than what other people expect.
What has been the biggest benefit you have gained from the coaching?
At one point, we used a tool called the Wheel of Work. It produced a real ‘aha’ moment for me. Incredibly, I realised my current job actually offered more of what I value than I had realised. In particular, that with a bit of what Leigh called ‘job crafting’, I could shape it further to suit me too.
I’ve made more progress in a month than I have in the previous year trying to figure things out on my own.
What did you like most about the coaching relationship?
I always felt properly listened to. Leigh has a way of picking up on things I didn’t even realise I was saying and playing them back to me to make me think more deeply.
It felt safe and non-judgmental. I could put anything on the table, even mad ideas, and explore them properly.
If you were to recommend Leigh to a friend, what would you say?
Leigh will help you untangle your thinking. She will never make you feel daft, even when you think you are being. And she will encourage you to think more kindly towards yourself in those moments.
I like that she never told me what to do or think; I had had enough of that elsewhere. I never felt judged. She asks questions which make you think more carefully about even your little throwaway comments, and from these, whole new thoughts appear. I really enjoyed working with her and will do again without a doubt.