Two years ago, I decided to leave my job at my family’s business. After dedicating 18 years to a career I did well, I was feeling as though my life were passing my by, that I was missing out on something more – more challenging, more fulfilling, more…well, me. I gave my notice without having a clue what I was going to do. At times, the unknown was both incredibly freeing, yet also terrifying.

About one month after giving my notice, the profession of coaching was introduced to me by my friend, Terri. We had been reunited after nearly 25 years. She asked me, “So, what do you want to do now?” This wasn’t the first time I had been asked that question since my decision was made, but this time felt different. You see, I was standing before a woman battling Stage 4 Metastatic breast cancer. She was 38 years old at the time and she was fighting as a graceful woman warrior to survive. (Please visit gracefulwomanwarrior.com for more on her story.)

I responded with something like, “I’m not really sure. I just want to help people, motivate them, encourage them to believe that they can do anything they want to do with their one life.” Her reply, “Sounds like Life Coaching”. My reply, “What the (bleep) is Life Coaching?” I spent the next month doing research and less than one week after my last day of work I had registered for a full training and certification program, which I’m proud to say I completed this past July 1.

I’m writing about this today for two reasons:

1. Terri presented me with the gift of opportunity that day & I will forever be grateful. Sadly, Terri just passed on Dec. 5th. I was blessed to spend some time with her a few days prior to her passing and the emotions of gratitude overwhelmed me. I wondered if she knew just how grateful I was. I had told her last summer during a lovely lunch just what that one, simple suggestion opened up for me, but the words didn’t seem to do it justice. I hope she knows now.

2. As the holidays approach, please consider those you know who may be struggling in their current professions. So much of our lives are consumed with our work, I feel my purpose as a coach is to present my clients with the same gift Terri provided me – an opportunity to consider something more to fulfill a life’s purpose. Should you know someone in the midst of a career transition, please connect us. This one connection could be the single greatest gift you’ve ever given.

May you enjoy all the magic, love and peace the holiday season offers you.