The Most Surprising Benefit of Coaching

Most of my new clients come to me because they’re unhappy at work and want to make a change (this isn’t the surprising part, btw).

Typically this means that while coaching together, they will quit a toxic job, start their own business, or renegotiate for more money or a better title – all of which is great, of course!

But here’s where it gets surprising – where even I was surprised at first: 

In addition to these “outer changes,” something else happens during our coaching together that, in truth, is so much more transformative:

My clients learn to trust themselves.

This is true whether you join the Coaching Circle, sign up for a Coaching Strategy Intensive, or work with me one-on-one. 

No matter the program, the core of what I help my clients do is practice trusting themselves.

To trust that you know what’s right for you.

To trust that you can take care of your needs.

To trust that you are on your own side.

To trust that you are safe with yourself.

Now this can be tricky, I know. Many of us are out of practice with this (or have gotten very good at avoiding this topic altogether). We aren’t tuned into what feels true, what we enjoy, or how to best restore ourselves. 

Does this resonate with you? If so, here’s where I want you to start:

If you pause just for a moment – in between meetings, making dinner for your family, and running another load of laundry – you might notice that you feel or sense your body needs something. 

A moment of stillness. A sip of water. A few minutes with your feet up the wall.

If your body needs something, give it to her. This is an example of learning to trust yourself.

If you take a moment and tune into your intuition, you might become aware there’s actually something you want in that moment. 

A nap. A walk. A chocolate chip cookie.

If there’s something you desire, give it to yourself. This is also an example of learning to trust yourself.

For better or worse, learning to trust yourself wasn’t on the exam in high school.

It’s not something they taught in college or your master’s program.

It’s a daily practice – of listening, noticing and responding to that little voice inside.

It takes dedication, curiosity and bravery to listen to your inner knowing – and then act on it.

And? It’s the whole damn point.

You only have one life to live, after all. Which means I want you to seize the opportunity to work and live in a way that honors what’s true and honest for you. 

And you get there by learning to trust yourself.

Onward,

PS: I have one spot available for a private coaching client – could it be you? Have a look at what Corey had to say about the experience of working with me 1:1, then reply to this email if you want to know more…

“Working with Ashley has been a life-changing experience. Post pandemic, I found myself lost and confused with who I am and how that was being shown through my work. Ashley has a keen ability to listen first, and then ask the right questions for you to explore yourself with guidance the entire way. In three months of working together, I already feel more in tune with who I am without judgment and have started to feel more clarity with my decisions. She's a true professional in all aspects and it's an honor to work with her. Be ready to ask the hard questions and explore yourself in ways you haven't before. Change is possible for everyone, especially with Ashley's guidance!” - Corey