I heard Sally talk at an industry event. She spoke about the feeling you have when there are too many things going round in your head, and you struggle to focus. I thought she was talking to me! That was my constant, at home and work. Thoughts about my business, my team, going round and round my head, even when I was putting my daughter to bed. It was draining. I struggled to be present in the evenings when my husband wanted to talk. I noticed how short I had become with him and people at work. I was exhausted.

Instinctively, I asked Sally if she would coach me. I had never worked with a coach before, but Sally came highly recommended. It was such a relief to talk to her about the things going on in my head. I’m the CEO of my company, and I couldn’t share these thoughts with colleagues. And my husband wouldn’t have understood. I love him, but I am the one that helps others.

Speaking those thoughts out loud was amazing. By articulating my feelings, I suddenly remembered what my long-term business plans were, what excited me about starting my own business five years ago. It was emotional. I won’t lie. But, it was good not to feel like I had to be so together all the time.

Sally helped me see how much pressure I had been putting on myself to support everyone else. It’s not an unusual story. Many successful people, men and women alike, work really hard, and it can feel relentless. I wanted to learn how to be less reactive and emotional. I wanted to connect with the bigger picture so I could be more present for my daughter. And, without understanding the impact it was having before coaching, I wanted to improve two specific relationships in my life which were impacting my behaviour and stress levels.

I worked with Sally for six months and went from frazzled to confidently calm. People have noticed. I feel lighter, more in control and empowered. I have fairer expectations of those who work with me, making me a better leader—a leader who recognises her triggers and how to recover faster.

I didn’t know where coaching would take me. There are still frustrations at work, but I have learned to relinquish control in the office and let others lead. This frees me up to work on what matters to me. These coaching sessions are a time for me. I have never felt so heard and understood myself so well. I thought I was quite self-aware, now I really get myself! Importantly I have reconnected with what I want from my business. It’s been a huge gift, that keeps on giving.