From Procrastination to Purpose: Finding a Career That Fits School Hours

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

When I first met Amy, I had been procrastinating about what to do next. I was working on a supply basis in a job I enjoyed and fitted perfectly with family life. However I knew I wasn't making the most of my skills and strengths. Before having children I'd worked for a big charity in a fulfilling role, and I was looking for a career that brought my passions and strengths together again, but couldn't see how it would be possible to do something flexibly/within 9-3 school hours. Every time I thought about starting a new career, I'd find a reason why it wouldn't work, and I needed someone to guide me and stop me going round in circles!

What did you get out of coaching?

What I gained most from Amy's coaching was being gently pushed to remove my limiting beliefs and dream big! She helped me to explore career options that I'd dismissed, including plucking up the courage to have a session with a voice coach (which was brilliant!), and also options I'd not thought about, like setting up my own business. The coaching went far beyond current skills and interests; the 1:1 sessions and weekly work helped me reflect on my life, passions, values and purpose. By combining the reflective and the practical work, I could see clearly what was most important to me. This was so helpful as I felt confident about my decisions when it came to identifying my top career possibilities.

What are you doing now / plans for future?

From the work that I did with Amy, I feel really excited to start working towards a career in career development. I'm going to be volunteering/shadowing at a secondary school over the next few months to learn more about their careers work, before applying to do a postgraduate diploma in career development and employability to start in the new year.

Is there any advice you would give to someone who relates to your story?

If I'd not done the coaching, I think I'd have always been wondering whether I could have done something else that felt more true to me. The limiting beliefs I had on what options were available to me within a 9-3 day were holding me back. So if you're in a similar situation, my advice would be to take a leap of faith - coaching has opened up possibilities to me that I didn't know were there before. It has also given me the confidence that I CAN do a role that brings together my skills and passions and have family/work balance. What's more, Amy has given me the encouragement and accountability I needed to start putting plans into action!

What are your hopes for the future career?

After completing the postgraduate diploma and gaining more experience in different settings, my hope is to go freelance in career development. I would love to work with young people, supporting and empowering them in making decisions on their future careers.