How to find the right coach for you

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Recently, I had one of those moments where life reminded me—not so gently—to slow down and actually listen to my body. I’d been pushing through an illness, convincing myself I could keep up my usual pace.

Spoiler alert: I couldn’t. My body finally said, “Enough!” and basically forced me to rest. Talk about a wake-up call.

It’s funny how our bodies always seem to know what we need, even when we’re stubbornly ignoring them. That experience got me thinking about the difference between growth and change—and how important it is to recognize where we are in our own journey.

Growth vs. Change: What’s the Difference?

This is something I’ve been reflecting on a lot lately. Growth is big, messy, and often exhausting. It’s when you’re doing the hard work of healing and transforming. It’s life-consuming—but in the best way, because you’re reshaping who you are.

Change, though? Change feels more like a gentle ripple. It’s ongoing and subtle—those small, consistent shifts that keep moving you forward.

Let me share a little more about how I see these two concepts in my own life.

Growth: The Deep, Intense Stuff

When I was diagnosed with depression, it sparked one of the biggest periods of growth in my life. I had to face some hard truths about myself and my mental health. It wasn’t easy, but it was transformative. I had to:

• Admit that I needed help
• Challenge the beliefs I’d been holding onto for years
• Learn to trust support systems, including therapy and medication

It was exhausting, but it changed me in ways I’m endlessly grateful for.

Change: The Subtle Evolution

After that intense growth phase, I shifted into the quieter, ongoing work of change. It’s been about refining—adjusting how I approach challenges, staying open to new perspectives, and continuing to evolve.

Change isn’t as dramatic as growth, but it’s just as important.

Coaching vs. Therapy: Which One Fits Your Journey?

This brings me to another important distinction: therapy and coaching. Both can be life-changing, but they serve different purposes. Here’s how I think about it:

Therapy: Deep Healing and Resolution

If you’re working through deep wounds, uncovering past traumas, or tackling foundational mental health challenges, therapy is a safe and healing space. It’s where you dig deep and resolve the things that are holding you back.

Coaching: Action and Forward Movement

Coaching, on the other hand, is all about forward momentum. If you’re ready to make specific changes, develop actionable strategies, and stay accountable, coaching can help you get there. It’s about taking what you’ve learned and putting it into action.

How to Find the Right Coach

If you think coaching might be what you need, here are a few tips to find the right fit:

1. Get Clear on Your Goals

Think about what you want to focus on. Whether it’s business, personal growth, health, or something else, knowing your goals will help you narrow down your options.

2. Understand the Process

Ask potential coaches about their approach: How often will you meet? What’s the structure of the sessions? Clear expectations make all the difference.

3. Trust Your Instincts

Finding the right coach is like dating—you’ll know when it feels right. Look for someone who challenges you in a way that feels constructive and safe.

4. Embrace Discomfort

Growth often feels uncomfortable. A good coach will push you outside your comfort zone, but it’s worth asking yourself: Is this discomfort helping me grow? Or is it crossing a boundary? Check in with yourself often.

Let’s Be Real: Change Takes Courage

Making any kind of change is hard. It means being vulnerable, honest, and willing to step into the unknown. But here’s the thing: asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness. It’s one of the bravest things you can do.

An Invitation to You

If you’ve been feeling stuck—like you’re ready for something different but don’t know where to start—I want you to know you’re not alone. Coaching with me might be the nudge you need to get moving in the right direction.

You don’t have to have it all figured out. You just need to take the first step. You are worthy of growth, support, and transformation—exactly as you are right now. Let’s explore this journey together.