Some of the challenges that coaching clients bring to our sessions boil down to the question: “What should I do with my life?” It’s certainly a question I’ve asked myself over the years when my career seemed to be heading off track. The question can feel overwhelming because the words carry both the weight of possibility and also the burden …
The Long and Winding Path
For many teachers, the end of the school year brings a pause; a breath between the busyness of school life and the quiet of summer. Truth be told, it used to take me at least two weeks just to quieten my mind and to start feeling normal again! For some, the pause also brings a deeper question to the surface: …
Beyond the End Zone
This month’s blog is a discussion prompted by the popular saying: ‘The end zone is for the ego; the journey is for the soul’. It got me curious because my coaching blends transactional outcomes (goals) with personal transformation (who we truly are, aka the soul). My curiosity became inspired enthusiasm which in turn prompted me to write! At one time …
At the Crossroads
If you are a teacher, chances are you’ve had that nagging thought: Maybe there’s a better way. Maybe the better way is a different teaching role or a different school. Maybe it’s a completely different career. Maybe it’s stepping away from the classroom for good. And then, without warning, another thought creeps in: Maybe what I have is good enough. …
Time Optimism – A double-edged sword
As someone deeply invested in personal development and coaching, I’ve often encountered the concept of time optimism—the belief that we can accomplish more in a given time frame than is realistically possible. Now, I appreciate that some of you will already be rolling your eyes at this point and thinking ‘not another label people can pin on themselves’ so let …
The Six Fears
Napoleon Hill’s Think and Grow Rich (published in 1937) is a guide to success. It is often described as ‘timeless’ and whilst I found parts dated (particularly gender-wise), the final chapter (a discussion of the ‘Six Fears’) was fascinating. Whether you’re an early-career teacher, a seasoned educator, or considering a career shift within or beyond the profession, these fears can …
Portfolio Career v Mosaic Career – Part Two
For teachers considering leaving the profession and/or at least stepping out of the classroom, a portfolio or mosaic career is certainly a strong option. But what are they and how do they differ? And how do you know which option is right for you? In this two-part blog, I share my understanding of the two paths and point out the …
Portfolio Career v Mosaic Career – Part One
For teachers considering leaving the profession and/or at least stepping out of the classroom, a portfolio or mosaic career is certainly a strong option. But what are they and how do they differ? And how do you know which option is right for you? In this two-part blog, I share my understanding of the two paths and point out the …
The Power of Systems
I love reading! I love reading about people. I love reading winning-against-the-odds success stories. I love reading about the way people earn their living. I love reading about self-development and coaching. Some books provide entertainment, others provide snippets of useful information. A really good book inspires me to make changes. The Power of Systems, written by Steve Chandler and Trevor …
Informational Interviews
What are they and how can they help teachers transition to a new career? For teachers considering a career change, the prospect of leaving the classroom can be exciting and daunting in equal measure. The skills honed through years of teaching (for example, communication, organisation, problem-solving, to name but a few) are highly transferable, but navigating the transition into a …