Coach In The Spotlight - Zara-Dee Hannay

What has led you to coaching? 

I felt something was missing from life. I wanted to spend my time doing something meaningful that gave me a solid purpose and crucially was helping others. I’d had various career paths and although they were rewarding I still craved something that would have more of a lasting impact on someone's life. I sat with this feeling for a long time never quite knowing when would be a good time to take a different direction. 

It wasn’t until lockdown hit and I had the space to slow down and re-evaluate that I realised I had to do something. The desire to help and support others became my main priority and this is when I began researching roles of this nature. I love people and my friends and family always commented on my positive attitude and outlook on life. When I found coaching it was like my eyes had finally been opened to a career I felt passionate about. It was not only exciting but hugely rewarding and I couldn’t wait to continue my learning.

Most people become a coach to change the lives of others… How has coaching benefited your own life? 

Massively! Improved levels of motivation, healthier lifestyle, greater empathy, improved relationships and communication. There are too many to list! I didn’t realise at the start of my coaching journey just how much of an impact it would have, it really is a life-changing experience! Not to mention the amazing people I’ve met along the way. 

How did the qualification slot in with your busy life? 

Pretty easily! The structure and format of the diploma allows you to work on it as and when possible. There are no time pressures or deadlines to hit. The diploma is designed to work around you and you are the one in charge of your progress and development. It's great practice if you are looking to become a self-employed coach. 

What was the most rewarding part of your Coaching journey? 

Seeing the happiness and smiles on my client's faces having achieved what they originally thought was not possible. Watching the amazing breakthrough moments happen where a fresh idea is born. Hearing about their wins and successes and feeling proud to have been a part of their journey.

How are you using your coaching skills? 

I support women who are ready to live and not just survive. I help my clients to understand what they want from life so they can get excited about the future again. We focus on the strengths, qualities and achievements that empower them to feel amazing and I build confidence by challenging the limiting beliefs that have been holding them back. Many struggle with confidence and decision-making due to the fear of being judged or they worry about what other people think of them. I’m passionate about making sure that no one ever feels unworthy of achieving their dreams. I aim to support and inspire my clients to live life to its full potential.

What’s the biggest area in coaching you are curious about and why? 

I think it's the adaptability and abundant learning available when it comes to coaching that excites me. I want to continue developing as a coach and exploring how I can incorporate past and future skills into coaching to give my clients the best experience possible. I have an Acting degree and I would love to explore how drama and improvisation could work with coaching. I also really love Yoga and Mindfulness and this is another area I would like to explore. Watch this space! 

What advice would you give someone wanting to pursue a life coaching career? 

If you’re ready to improve your quality of life and start building a rewarding career that will give you the skills and tools needed to help and support others, then don't waste years of thinking about it just go for it!  I signed up to the free Introduction to Coaching Webinar which was packed full of interesting information about coaching and what the diploma involved. Go into it with an open mind and a willingness to learn and grow and don’t forget to have plenty of fun along the way! 

What are the best resources that have helped you along your coach training journey? 

The Coaching Academy provides you with so many resources to support you on the journey. One of the most valuable ones for me was the Facebook Coaching Academy Student community where you can meet other coaches in training and more experienced graduates. It’s an excellent tool to be able to reach out to other coaches and it’s great to have a support network there if you want it. I was lucky enough to buddy up with another coach who started the course at the same time as me. We worked with each other throughout the journey and still support each other now (we even-handed in our final papers at the same time.) This would be one of my main tips! Find another Coaching Academy student at a similar stage to you and become coaching buddies, having someone to share the journey with was invaluable. You also have lifetime access to the online learning platform which is full of information and tools to progress your learning! 

Thank you Zara-Dee for sharing your coaching journey with us!

If you are feeling inspired and would you like to have a coaching business you can run from the comfort of your own home, then do join us on our Introduction to Life Coaching webinar - choose from available dates here.   

Are you already qualified as a coach? Our wide range of coaching training events, webinars and courses will enable you to upskill in your career or grow your coaching business – you can see the booking calendar here.