“The Accidental Coach”

Clients often ask how I went from directing complex, business-driven, IT projects to coaching other leaders who want to lead more purposefully. I offer my story with the hope that it encourages you in realizing your aspirations.

In early 2000, I found myself burning out in a job I loved. My team and I were implementing a global system for a well-known media company and we’d been “running the hundred-yard dash for miles.” My team was a terrific group of incredibly bright, talented, and dedicated people. My boss was a phenomenal mentor who provided the environment where I could bring all my talents to bear. So what was the problem? The problem was that I didn’t yet understand that my business knowledge and management experience – and the sheer force of my considerable will – were not enough.

Though I’m proud of what my colleagues and I accomplished, I’d be even prouder if I could say I’d lead with self awareness, self care, and grace. I did not. Those have taken time to develop… After working too many days filled with 12 hours’ of meetings and then starting my “real work” in the evening. Months filled with the belief that multi-tasking really was more productive than focusing on one thing for even a few minutes. Years of living on adrenaline; which surprisingly turned out not to be sustainable (or healthy).

A chance meeting in the summer of 2000 led me to Georgetown University’s coach training program. I had no idea how life-changing this “accident” would turn out to be.

In the coaching program, I not only learned how to coach but about how to become an intentional leader. What I learned ultimately lowered my stress level, changed my management style, improved my team’s performance, and lead to greater success with more peace of mind. That learning continues…

So as it turns out, this is why I took the scenic route; the “unplanned management training program” through Human Resources, Information Technology, strategic planning, organizational change management, and consulting. Now, I know that all of that experience allows me to connect with people in diverse fields and industries. Most of all, I know that becoming the leader – and the person – I once couldn’t even imagine, has been worth it all when I can support my clients in becoming the leaders they want to be as they deliver outstanding results for their organizations.