“You’re so much more than your current or next job title” – I’ve said that to several clients lately and learned a lot about myself in the process… For the last 9 years I had grown accustomed to introducing myself as “UX Director for <insert product area> at Google.” I was very proud to say those words. With this short statement I was subconsciously signaling a lot: achievement, prestige, hard work, challenge, recognition – the pinnacle of success in my chosen field for ~30 years! Four months ago I could no longer use that introduction. “I”m a coach, working towards certification” was my uncomfortable, apologetic go-to; not exactly a signal of pride in my new achievement. So much of my identity was locked into being a UX Director at a big name company. It felt so strange to be starting again “at the bottom” that I had to apologize for it. Now, that feeling is lifting. I’m more confidently and proudly saying “I’m a certified professional coach!” So what changed? I was never just a “UX Director at Google.” I still retain all the past knowledge and experience of being a software engineer, designer, director, leader, manager, mentor, politician, friend, ... and now I’ve added experience and training in coaching to that list. I’m still me, I haven’t lost anything, I’m not starting again, I’m just growing into a new space and it’s scary but exciting! Message me to make a coaching appointment.
You are so right. It took my almost a year or so to be able to swiftly say "I am an executive leadership coach and consultant".
A beautiful and important message! Thank you for being YOU as a Director and a Coach!
I think it’s the learning curve but you’ll get through it faster because of your experience! I’m feeling it to. It helped to go to a live event with coaches last week. I got some great ideas to try out and more people to tap into for support and connection.
Very very true Neil
Make a list of the boldest futures you dare to dream. I coach Global Leaders | Rock Climber | Endurance Athlete | Ex-Google | Create a Life You Love 💛
2wNeil, this totally resonates. I get it. When I left Google and then started on my own building a coaching practice I absolutely ran into an identity crisis. I learned a few strategies for resolving that - which comes in handy for the next one. I'm curious if it's the same for you - it turns out I've always been a coach - even before I trained in it. It was always there - my way of being - when I was an Engineering Leader at Google, and outside, when I was rock climbing around the world. I reckon you might just always have been a coach too, and now that part of you gets to express itself with more ease?