This week's coach in the spotlight is Neema Lakhani. Neema is a Coaching Academy graduate with a 20-year background in education and a passion for helping parents find balance in their lives. Drawing from her experience in psychology and her dedication to effective coaching, Neema empowers parents to shed guilt, establish healthy habits, and rediscover joy in both their family and professional lives. Join us as we explore Neema’s inspiring transformation from educator to life coach and the invaluable lessons she has learned along the way.
What has led you to coaching?
My journey to coaching started with my love for teaching and supporting families over the past 20 years. Working in education has given me the chance to connect with parents, doctors, caregivers, and others who play vital roles in a child’s life. As a mother myself, I know firsthand the juggle between family, work, and personal dreams. Coaching felt like a natural next step—a way to support parents who, like me, want to be fully present at home while still pursuing their own goals, without feeling overwhelmed or guilty. I believe that parents need to take care of themselves first to truly show up for their families.
How has coaching benefited your own life?
Coaching has been a game-changer for me. It’s helped me face my own challenges with a calmer, more open heart and given me tools to approach setbacks with a fresh perspective. From sudden job changes to family dynamics, coaching has taught me to focus on what truly matters and let go of unnecessary guilt. It’s brought me a sense of balance I didn’t know was possible, and I love helping my clients experience that same feeling.
Tell us about your journey as a TCA student.
Joining The Coaching Academy to do the Life Coaching Diploma was a step that just felt right. The structure fit perfectly with my daily life, allowing me to study while being a present parent and managing other responsibilities. The support and encouragement I received throughout made all the difference. The learning journey was deeply rewarding, and it’s been wonderful to connect with others who are equally passionate about helping people through coaching.
What was the most rewarding part of your coaching journey?
The most rewarding part has been seeing the positive shifts my clients make. Helping parents let go of guilt, understand the beliefs that might be holding them back, and build supportive habits makes such a difference When they tell me they’re feeling less stressed, more present, and better equipped to handle their responsibilities, it’s incredibly fulfilling. Knowing I’m helping people, especially parents, feel happier and more balanced is exactly why I became a coach.
What are the best resources that have helped you?
The Coaching Academy's hands-on resources—especially the practical exercises and real-life coaching scenarios—were so helpful. They allowed me to build confidence and skills step-by-step, which I now bring into my sessions. The mentorship and support network at The Coaching Academy also gave me the encouragement I needed to succeed. It was truly brilliant.
How are you using your coaching skills?
I focus on supporting parents who are juggling both family life and personal goals. My coaching sessions are designed to help them understand and shift beliefs that might be limiting them, let go of guilt, and create routines that bring calm and focus to their lives. I believe in building healthy habits and helping clients explore what lies behind their inner blocks so they can move forward with confidence. My online sessions fit easily into their lives, giving them simple, actionable tools to feel more balanced and fulfilled.
What is your favourite coaching tool or question to use?
One of my favourite questions to ask is, “What’s one thing you can let go of right now to feel more at peace?” It’s amazing how often letting go of just one thing—whether it’s guilt, a limiting belief, or a bit of pressure—can create room for calm and clarity.
What types of feedback have you received from clients?
Clients often tell me they feel lighter after our sessions, like a weight has been lifted. Many say they’re able to handle their responsibilities with a fresh perspective and less guilt. Most of my clients want to continue coaching with me on a longer-term basis, to see what else they can achieve, as it unlocks potential within them that they never knew existed. Knowing that I’ve helped someone feel more balanced, present and feel like they can achieve anything is the best feedback I could ask for.
What’s the biggest area in coaching you are curious about and why?
I’m really interested in exploring how mental well-being ties into personal growth. Having faced my own mental health challenges, I understand how essential self-care is. I want to keep learning ways to support clients in building resilience, managing stress, and prioritizing their own well-being alongside everything else. I have a passion for Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) and I am building on my learning in this area to enhance on my Psychology background and add another layer to my coaching.
Where do you see yourself taking your coaching skills/business in the coming years?
I want to reach more parents around the world, creating online programmes and workshops focused on mindset, self-care, and work-life balance. I see myself building a supportive community where parents can share their experiences and find the encouragement they need to thrive.
What tips would you give someone wanting to pursue a coaching career?
Know your “Why.” Coaching is about helping others, but it’s also a personal journey of growth. Be open to learning about yourself, and don’t rush—building confidence and skills takes time. And remember to approach your clients with warmth and understanding; everyone’s journey is unique.
I’d love to encourage other parents who might be considering coaching. There’s something incredibly special about having someone there just to listen and support you. Whether you’re looking for guidance as a client or want to pursue coaching as a career, it’s a deeply rewarding path.
Thank you Neema for sharing your inspiration coaching journey with us!
Join us for our free Introduction to Life Coaching webinar, where you'll discover the foundational skills and techniques needed to help others achieve their goals and aspirations. This interactive session will provide valuable insights into the coaching process and how you can train to become a life coach too. Don't miss this opportunity to transform your passion for helping others into a fulfilling career!
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