I’m trying to get all my ducks in a row. There are lots of them! I’ve said this before, but starting a business as a life coach is something I’m taking seriously. In addition, I have a significant birthday next year, which also marks 20 years until I pay off my mortgage and retire.
Twenty (more) years of working is a long time! It’s an even longer time when I’m doing something that, whilst I’m good at it, it doesn’t make my heart sing. I’ve always wanted to work for myself – I know it won’t be easy – but I’ve always wanted to be in charge. It also may not work out, but if I never try, I’ll never really know what I’m capable of.
I’m nearly there – most of the boxes are ticked and I’m herding my ducks. (Do you herd ducks? Not sure!) The final sticking point is my website. It’s almost there, but not quite. I wanted it to be live before I started my business, but I got thinking: why was this so important? Why does my website need to be live before I start my business? It’s going to be a work in progress, and will continually evolve and it will never be ‘done’. In fact, it shouldn’t be done – it will always need updating, have new content added; new pages, new designs and tweaks to ensure it’s optimised and not just a pretty white elephant.
I also thought about other coaches I know – very good at what they do, very experienced… One has said their website is in need of a refresh and another who doesn’t have a website at all!
It can be so easy to get caught in the ‘I must do this,’ or ‘I should do that,’ that we lose sight of what’s actually important.
And what is important? In this instance, it’s that someone can reach out to me and say, ‘hello, can we work together?’ If someone were to say that, my response would be: ‘of course, let’s have a chat and I can send you some terms so you know what to expect.’ And yes, I am ready to do that.
So really, this is procrastination, perfectionism, a little bit of fear and some self-doubt (I am human after all!). So no, my website isn’t quite ready, but yes, I’d love to coach you! From next Wednesday (23rd April) I’m taking on clients (and no, this isn’t about more procrastination, this is just when my insurance cover starts!) and Claire Melvin Coaching is opening its doors.
It’s taken nearly 2 years to get here – 2 years that have included training as a life coach, buying a house, doing some DIY to turn it into a home and making sure I have all the legal stuff in place (those ducks!). It hasn’t been the easiest of journeys and I’ve absolutely had my share of ‘what am I doing?’ moments. And then I remember I’m working for the next 20 years (unless I win the lottery or marry a millionaire!) and I want to do something that brings me joy, where I can help people and use all the knowledge and experience I’ve gained over nearly (cough) 50 years.
So, be brave! Go after your goals, your dreams. It’s not always easy, but you only have one life. Even if you can’t go after the big dreams right now, what about the little ones? I’d love to help you achieve them.