Coach

I’m not afraid to ask the hard questions. Sometimes these questions come immediately upon our meeting. These interactions often leave my husband quickly and uncomfortably attempting to explain that this very intrusive person they’ve just met is, in fact, a career coach. It’s what I’m trained to do. I myself often warn people that I’ll keep asking until they stop answering. However, I would be lying if I tried to pass this off as professional habit; I’m genuinely nosy. I can assure you, though, that’s it’s very well-intentioned prying. I actually care about what you are saying! I’m not making small talk. I’m sincerely invested in you and your story.

Because of this interest in others and because I’ve found a career that leverages it, I have been the privileged recipient of thousands of amazing stories. The details of my own life are more hazy. I can’t tell you the year that anything happened or remember a birthday to save my life. Literally, in some twisted game show: “Shelby, ultimate lifeline here; What is the date of your maternal uncle’s birthday?” Forget it. I would simply say my goodbyes and walk off the stage. It’s okay, I lived a good life full of love and interesting people.

But where was I? Oh yeah, while details elude me, overall ideas and common themes jump out. As a result, I’ve developed a set of core beliefs as the foundation of my coaching. The goal is to support who you are and where you are; address your challenges and goals. When are you most productive? Most creative? When do you have to be in the pick-up line at school? When do you work out? None of these things should keep you from working towards your dream. I help you create a framework for your life and your circumstances. Isn’t it wonderful that we are not all the same! Honor what makes you different. Honor your circumstances. Within that, we will find your motivation, make a plan, and move you forward.

I get it, it’s a lot to unpack. That’s what this blog is for. Other blogs are for baking. (I love those blogs too.) And like life, this blog will sometimes be direct, sometimes meander, sometimes ruminate, and sometimes tease. Because we are going to explore what it means to be intentional with your time, even though it may not be a straight path. We are going to push to be truly self-reflective and aware. We are going to break big dreams into small steps, and we are going to accomplish something everyday. So, today, this blog. Tomorrow, the world.