From 20 Years in Tech to Creative Dreams: How Coaching Helped Me Find My North Star

What made you decide to try coaching in the first place?

I had a steady upward career in technology for 20 years. Returning to work after having two children, my career was still great on paper but I was feeling stuck and I wanted to change. I was advised to look into career coaching. I started looking around but everything seemed off and too much to handle, until I bumped into Amy’s profile. She was very approachable and friendly; even though I had no idea what I was looking for, she made me feel relaxed.

What was life and work like before coaching? Can you describe to me your situation when we first met? 

I was really confused and was feeling stuck and low. I had a steady career and I felt I should be feeling grateful for it, but I wasn't feeling like that at all. I didn't know what I really wanted to do next, I thought I was at a dead end and I couldn't see any way out or alternatives. It felt like I was giving Amy an unsolvable problem. 

What did you gain or learn through the coaching process?

First, I learned to trust my instincts and to listen to my heart. With Amy's guidance, I took the time to look deep inside myself: what I value most, what I dream about and how I imagine myself in years from now. I still use these tools to ensure I follow the right path to my north star.

What results have you experienced from coaching? What are you doing now, and how do you feel about it?

Firstly, I am healthier. My migraines have stopped immediately after finally making the decision to leave my company. This was the first steps for me to feel healthier and happier.

I also now know what I want to do in the future, what really inspires me and I have a plan on how to get there. I love fabric design and I found an online course that gave me even more energy to follow that path.

I have started with small steps, I have setup my first website (yay, steep learning curve!) and submitted my design work to three competitions with more coming! https://mariamelydesigns.com/maria-mely-designs-homepage 

I was scared to talk about it to my parents and had kept it a secret for many months. When I finally took the courage to tell my mother, she surprisingly said “you’ve found yourself again!”. That really means a lot to me.

What advice would you give to someone who relates to your story and is thinking about coaching?

Would you regret more for something you did or something you didn't do? Just try to see if this is for you. Especially if you’re not sure what you want or whether this is worth it. That means that there’s work to do and Amy is so easy to talk to and understanding. There is no pressure and the process is smooth and adjusted to your pace and life commitments. 

Looking ahead, what are your hopes or goals for the future?

I am working on my long term business plan at a pace that is comfortable with my current life. I have lots I want to do and I am now taking the steps to get there. Thank you Amy for helping me find my north star and for keeping me accountable for my progress, plan and next steps! To be continued..!