When people ask me how I became a career and leadership coach, I tend to answer by saying, “through dumb luck and happenstance”. Don’t misunderstand me, it has also taken a lot of hard work, sacrifice, loss, introspection, and overcoming my sometimes crippling aversion to risk to get here too. But for the most part, I believe the stars had to align just right to finally make this dream a reality.
A former CEO I worked with in years past told me, ‘Shannon, it takes the right person, in the right job, at the right time to make it work’. Today I can finally say, I’m in the right job at the right time, and I’m doing more than just making it work. When people ask me why I became a coach, my answer is much less succinct. In fact, this blog post would most likely become an autobiography if I went into all of the reasons that make up my ‘why’. For the sake of time and space, and my own sanity, I’ll take this opportunity to hit the highlights.
The People. First and foremost, I do this because I have a genuine love and appreciation for people, period. I enjoy meeting new people and learning about what makes them unique, what makes them special. I also really enjoy the challenge of winning people over. In fact, it’s one of my strengths. I get a little rush each time I get to lean into it, particularly when I meet people with who may seem a little prickly. I am ridiculously extroverted and never meet a stranger, something I am actively working on tempering a bit to avoid totally embarrassing my poor introverted husband in public. I have a soft spot for new managers and leaders, having been one myself many years ago. I know how intimidating and tricky navigating those waters can be. I believe everyone has the potential to be great, has the right to follow their passions, and the ability to do big things. It’s my job to help them plot the course to get there.
The Challenge. Every client I work with is different. This presents me with the distinct task of determining what tools and topics to tap into in order to tailor their individual experience with the Know You Project to meet their unique needs. Because our approach is heavily relational, I have the opportunity to build a foundation of trust with each client, which allows us to work within a space that is transparent and vulnerable. I like to ask the tough questions, often acting as the mirror people may have been avoiding. I appreciate the process of working to remove roadblocks and connect the dots along the journey of self-discovery. I believe in the power of developing a plan, but also understand the power of having the ability to adjust or even abandon it when necessary. This work is incredibly challenging, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
The Progress. I have said many times before that I believe that complacency is the enemy of progress. It sounds like a serious statement, right? Well, it is. When we get too comfortable, we become less apt to continue to grow, to push ourselves. One of the most satisfying things about being a coach is witnessing the progress that takes place when a client moves from a state of being comfortable to being uncomfortable. And I have no problem nudging them through that process. It’s in the discomfort where we see the most growth, where confidence is built and individuality thrives. Progress sparks change and it is change that is needed to propel us forward. I live for the moments when I get to see clients take that step forward.
We strive to equip clients with the knowledge, support, and customized tools needed to gain forward momentum. 
