I've been there — many times! That's why I'm so passionate about helping others. Many events and experiences in my life have been marked by both extreme joy and life-defining struggles. Through all of the ups & downs, I have learned to embrace each and every good moment and, perhaps more importantly, to “dance in the rain!”

 

One of the most challenging periods of my life came at a time when I believed everything was right on track and I was feeling nothing but joy, happiness and satisfaction in both my personal life and my career. When I was 34, married just four years, running after our adorable toddler son, and pregnant with our second child, I received the completely unexpected and terrifying diagnosis of breast cancer. It was a very intense time —I was overwhelmed and felt like I had lost control of my life. I endured several surgeries and intensive chemotherapy that left me with both physical and emotional scars. I did my best to stay positive and to make life feel normal for my family. I had amazing support from my husband, family and friends, but still felt in need of emotional support, mentoring and guidance. I tried therapy and support groups but neither felt right to me. Looking back, now fortified with the skills and knowledge I've developed through becoming a Certified Life Coach, I realize how much I could have benefited from a personal one-on-one coach. I would have tried to find someone who could have offered me first-hand knowledge from their personal experience in terms of employing effective coping tools, managing anxiety, adding positivity to each day and learning to navigate a “new normal.”

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Prior to my diagnosis, I was a dedicated, successful, corporate Wall Street lawyer. Over time and after having children, working as a lawyer became less fulfilling and no longer aligned with my personal life goals. I had to gain insight into what my next steps should be — shift gears, find renewed purpose and personal fulfillment. After much inner reflection, I decided to focus on charitable fundraising for causes most important to me. I then went on to create and establish FACT (Find A Cure Today), an organization focused on raising awareness and funds for breast cancer research. At many events, I would tell the story of my breast cancer journey. Speaking publicly helped me to sort out my own lingering feelings of struggle and loss, but an unexpected outcome was the positive feedback I received that my story and outlook truly resonated with people. The feeling of accomplishment in helping others was so gratifying! I realized I wanted to do even more to connect and help people who were struggling.

 

During my training to become a Certified Life Coach, I discovered that some of the skills I had acquired as a lawyer would be very effective in helping my coaching clients. I had learned to problem-solve by asking direct, thought-provoking questions that would get to the heart of the matter. As a result, when I'm coaching, I can quickly identify your most pertinent issues to help you strategize and find solutions.