Transforming Lives Through Faith-based Coaching

What led you into coaching? 

I am most fulfilled when helping people. This led me initially to the nursing profession and now after many years I have transitioned to coaching. My aim is to use my experience, achievements and training to help others achieve their purpose.   I left my sunny homeland as an experienced Registered Nurse, to specialise in Neonatal Intensive Care in the UK; such was my love for nursing premature babies. During my training period as a nurse I faced tremendous challenges with unfamiliar hospital systems and medical equipment and felt unsupported by my nursing mentors. As a result, I was disadvantaged compared to my peers.   Furthermore, the working hospital environment was extremely stressful and discouraging. This impaired my ability to focus and perform effectively. My confidence was eroded, and it made me doubt my abilities as a nurse and became fearful of making mistakes. I had to make a choice, the experience could make me bitter or make me better, I chose the latter!   

Amidst these difficulties my faith in God empowered me to overcome every hurdle to become a better person. One day whilst praying I read these words, “To everything there is a season and a time to every purpose under the heaven.”  (Ecclesiastes 3:1) - this was my turning point! I took those words to heart and rose above the situation. I reminded myself continually that my struggles were only for a season, it was purposeful; and that I was entering a new season therefore decided never to give up.  

Finally, I succeeded and become a mentor myself for other nursing students and give them the support I should have received. In 2022 after almost 20 years, I knew it was time to leave nursing for something different which was when I decided to train as a coach.     I found The Coaching Academy through an online search and was drawn to attend a free 'Introduction to Life Coaching' webinar.  I knew nothing whatsoever about coaching but decided to register and I felt an instant tug at my heart and knew this was what I wanted to do.   Whilst training I practised everything I learnt and was stretched out of my comfort zone to accomplish more than I thought I could. My training equipped me with greater self-awareness and listening skills which has had a positive impact on my relationships.  

How did the qualify slot in with your life?   

As I had left nursing, I was able to dedicate time to plan and manage my studies to achieve my qualification. My overall goal was to be qualified in March 2024 (after one year) so I set specific goals for every aspect of my training and succeeded.   The Facebook community provided valuable connection for practice buddies, support and opportunities to learn from each other. Even though the training is online no one feels isolated, I learnt that we all faced similar challenges, which meant freedom to be open and honest about our fears and struggles.  

 What was the most rewarding? 

 The most rewarding aspect was being able to actively practice with people and see the positive results in their lives. That was very fulfilling and empowering and boost my confidence.  

 How are you using your coaching skills?

 While my core value is my Christian faith and has been my rock; my coaching skills have proven to be applicable and beneficial to clients of all faiths or beliefs and no faith. I use my listening skills and always aim to be fully presence to help my clients get results, but my reliance is on the power of God in me. When I seek His wisdom, I can facilitate my clients to achieve amazing results.   I support women to understand that they are created beautifully, and each one is knitted together uniquely, having gifts and talents, strengths as well as deficiencies. Embracing who they are helps them succeed.  I also use questions around values clarifying what’s important as well as their own worth. Once their “why” becomes clear and bigger than their fears or doubts they act. 

What types of feedback have you received from clients regarding the impact of your coaching on their personal or professional lives?

Client feedback is essential and have been very encouraging. one client mentioned that coaching helped restore order in their home and work life. Another whom I worked with pro Bono returned, saying coaching was just what she needed to structure her life. One young woman was grateful to be able to face one of her fears and saw new possibilities. 

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

I am curious about clients’ body language. I am interested in exploring; taking nothing at face value but to delve deeper for insight; to create awareness and clarity. I believe the skills to look beneath the surface and bring to light issues that need addressing is key to moving clients forward. 

Where do you see yourself taking your coaching in the coming years?  

I believe my voice is my gift to the world and plan to inspire women; helping them face and overcome whatever has held them back. I plan to use 1-1 sessions; group coaching; speaking engagements and Podcasting in the future.  Beginning with the end in mind; stating goals like you already have them is called faith. Therefore, I see my coaching service reaching and transforming women internationally in the next 5 years. 

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

I believe no experience is wasted. Coaching is a powerful profession for using your personal experience to help others. Or if your desire is for self-development and growth then coaching is for you.  Practice, practice, practice as you train. It is the best way to consolidate your learning.  Do not wait for the “perfect” time to start, start now!

Thank you Coecilia for sharing your inspirational journey with us!