My coaching journey
I stumbled across coaching 10 years ago when I was exploring two questions: how do I lead my life my way, and what is my way?
The forward-looking nature of coaching felt aligned with me. I trained as a coach, yet for almost six years I kept questioning whether I wanted to credential.
One day, my perspective changed. Credentialing felt like a drop in the ocean compared with what it could open up. I chose ICF membership because it felt like joining a global professional family, connected through common standards and credentials. It could also support my vision of working with large organisations and contributing through coaching to organisations such as the United Nations.
I was looking for professional development, connection and opportunities to learn from experienced coaches. Along the way, coaching has transformed me. I have grown in self-belief, agency and my ability to step into the unknown. It feels surprising that I have been with ICF for only two years and already had such expansive experiences.
How membership has helped
When I joined, I was curious about what membership could offer beyond credentialing. I enrolled in volunteering for coaching projects, attended local and Special Interest Groups, and connected with coaches, mentor coaches, supervisors and experienced practitioners. These conversations helped me understand the people and work cultures I enjoy working with.
Speaking with members, I learnt about resources and information that supported my coaching aspirations. I built coaching hours, earned CCEUs through member and ICF events, and received my ACC and PCC credentials. I earned 40 CCEUs in eight months through ICF membership events and activities, driven by my love for coaching.
Growth thrives on intention and ownership. When I am challenged, I reflect, gain clarity on the skill I need and find an event that supports my learning. The UK Chapter’s professional development series and group events enable group reflection and exploration of what is emerging in the coaching industry. Membership has also helped me learn about setting up public events and the customer journey.
Through the UK ICF Ignite programme, I met my ideal clients in leadership teams and learnt to navigate a digital coaching platform. I also took the opportunity to lead the UK ICF West Midlands Local Group and build a community that supports and grows together. This September, we celebrate our second anniversary. This September, we celebrate our second anniversary. We invite you to join the celebration!
The difference your membership has made
Through UK ICF Ignite, I have had opportunities to serve leadership teams. The coach selection process and client conversations helped me practise customer journeys and navigate objections.
The UK Chapter of ICF Business Development series helped me reflect on the beliefs my business development sits on, enhancing my courage and agency to enjoy and progress with it.
I have extended this learning into how I connect with businesses, being open and curious about their world and how I can contribute to their vision. This transforms the energy in how I show up.
Membership connections have grown into collaborations and friendships. The diversity of the community adds new perspectives and richness to my coaching. I am no longer alone in this game. We grow, contribute and make an impact together
Advice to other members
If you are exploring coaching or already on your coaching path, join the community. There are ups and downs in the journey, and it helps to walk with people if you want to go far. A coaching community can challenge our thinking and mirror beliefs that may be acting as barriers. We learn alongside each other, widen our perspectives and keep building skills aligned with our values. There is connection and joy in travelling this career path together.
