From Corporate America to Corporate Coaching & Consulting
After living a very active and successful corporate career, I realized that the part of my career that I found the most fulfilling was helping both my clients and employees reach their full potential. I like to help people reach within themselves to find their own answers -the role of a coach.
I began my career in Advertising as an entry-level Account Executive over 30 years ago. Since then, I have had almost every role and responsibility within an agency. My final position was SVP of the North Division of TMP Worldwide, one of the largest at the company, where I was responsible for overseeing the largest account in the world (think packages).
My corporate job allowed me the opportunity to travel, raise my kids as a single mother, save for college and retirement and develop lifelong connections. I loved many parts of my job, but most importantly, I loved that my kids saw a successful woman executive. I tried to show my kids every day that anything is possible with hard work and passion.
There were two times over the 30 years where I left my job. The first time I left was after my son said to me “you don’t spend enough time being my mom” – which shot me in the heart. I did not click with a new boss, felt unappreciated, was slightly burnt out and I decided it was just time to go. The second time I left was to go on my own consulting.
There were pros and cons to each new experience I ventured into, but I soon realized that many of the problems that led me elsewhere stayed with me wherever I went. I believed that I would be able to manage my workaholic tendencies… However, before too long, I was working at the same intense level as before. I simply was not able to shift my behavior and actions.
I realized the changes I needed to make were not just external (i.e. switching jobs). These were behaviors, beliefs and actions that I needed to address in order to be the best version of myself- a better leader and employee, and a more present friend, fiance and Mom, no matter the environment or position.
It was so clear to everyone but me that my work/life balance was completely out of whack. Perhaps, I did not have enough confidence in myself to really explore elsewhere because I was comfortable, and I was paid well, which helped me justify the situation. My company was a family for me, but I was neglecting my own. Deep in my soul, I finally knew that it was time to go, and for one of the first times in my life, I made a decision to do what was best for me.
I know for sure that working with a coach would have helped me tremendously. It would have raised my awareness and kept me from running in place all the time. It would have kept me on track and accountable to myself, not just to others. I also know that it would have helped me make changes much faster than I did. And that’s what I’m passionate about now- helping others move forward; providing the support that I never knew I needed, but most certainly would have benefited from.