Not Found Often outsiders look at a successful business and think it became a success overnight. Even media and especially movies love to gloss over nitty, gritty details that went into that middle phase of your business – after you started but before you got to where you are today. In our experience, overnight success is usually the result of years of hard work laying the foundation for success, but unfortunately, it’s exactly this part of the story that most of the media ignores. Can you talk to us about your scaling up story – what are some of the nitty, gritty details folks should know about?

Scaling up Authentically Connected Coaching® has been a journey marked by introspection, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to my purpose. Transitioning from a 15-year career in finance to coaching was a leap fueled by a deep-seated belief in my ability to contribute to people’s lives on a more profound level. This transition wasn’t merely a career change; it was a redefinition of my personal and professional identity.

Belief in my purpose was the beacon that guided me through the uncertainty of career transition. The decision to leave a stable, successful career in finance for the uncertain world of coaching was daunting. Yet, it was my unwavering belief in the impact I could make through coaching—helping individuals and organizations achieve not just success, but fulfillment—that propelled me forward. This belief wasn’t just a source of personal motivation; it became a compelling part of my brand’s narrative, attracting clients and opportunities aligned with this vision.

One of the initial hurdles to scaling was overcoming imposter syndrome. Stepping into the coaching world, where I aimed to empower and transform, the shadow of doubt loomed over me. Questions like “Am I good enough?” or “Do I truly belong here?” were constant companions. By embracing my vulnerabilities and sharing my journey, I connected with clients on a deeper level, demonstrating that growth and self-belief are born from embracing our fears and uncertainties. This authenticity became a powerful tool in attracting clients who valued real, transformative journeys. This connection brought me clients, but I still felt stuck and unable to really make this business work.

As I connected to more clients, somehow, my imposter syndrome started to peak back through the corners, reminding me false narratives rooted from fear that began to sink in even deeper. I found myself ensnared in a cycle of perpetual preparation. Training after training, I sought to arm myself with every conceivable tool and technique, believing that just one more certification, one more course, would be the key to unlocking my full potential as a coach. Yet, despite my expanding arsenal of skills and knowledge, progress felt elusive, and the breakthrough I yearned for remained just beyond reach.

At a point of near-desperation, feeling as though I had exhausted all options, I turned to my tarot reader for guidance. Her advice was as straightforward as it was profound: “Stop buying ingredients and cook the damn cake already.” Her words struck a chord deep within me. I realized that in my quest for perfection to not let anyone down, I had been postponing the very essence of my dream—to coach and make a tangible difference in people’s lives. It was time to shift from perpetual preparation to action, to “start coaching my ass off.”

This epiphany marked a pivotal shift in my approach to scaling Authentically Connected Coaching®. I embraced the concept of action over perfection, understanding that real growth comes from doing, from engaging directly with clients, and from the rich, unpredictable tapestry of real-world coaching. I shifted my focus from acquiring more training to leveraging the extensive knowledge and skills I already possessed. This was not a retreat from learning but an advance towards applying and sharing my expertise.

With this newfound clarity, my strategies for scaling the business evolved. I began to:

Focus on Visibility: By increasing my presence on social media, writing articles, and hosting webinars, I shared my journey and insights, connecting with potential clients who resonated with my message of authentic transformation.

Leverage My Network: I reached out to my professional and personal networks, offering coaching sessions and workshops. This not only expanded my client base but also provided invaluable real-world experience and feedback.

Offer Unique Programs: Drawing on my diverse training and personal insights, I developed unique coaching programs that addressed specific needs and challenges, distinguishing Authentically Connected Coaching® in the market.

Prioritize Impact Over Scale: Recognizing that true scaling is not just about numbers but the depth of impact, I focused on creating profound, transformative experiences for my clients, which, in turn, led to referrals and organic growth.

This journey from endless preparation to purposeful action has been both challenging and exhilarating. It taught me that while preparation has its place, it is through action that we truly learn, grow, and make a difference. The advice to “cook the damn cake” was a call to trust in my abilities, to embrace the uncertainty of the coaching process, and to commit fully to the path I had chosen.

Today, as I reflect on the growth of Authentically Connected Coaching®, my journey mirrors the transformations I’ve facilitated for my clients. The essence of scaling, both for my business and for those I coach, transcends mere strategic adjustments or tactical shifts. Instead, it delves into the foundational layers of what truly holds individuals and organizations back from achieving their expansive potential. My approach has always been about looking beneath the surface, identifying and addressing the deeper, often overlooked barriers to growth.

This introspective process is not about surface-level solutions but understanding the core beliefs, fears, and patterns that prevent true scaling. By guiding clients to confront these underlying challenges, we unlock a more profound, sustainable path to expansion. This methodology has not only been pivotal in my own business’s evolution but has also empowered my clients to transcend their perceived limitations, fostering a mindset geared towards actionable change and authentic growth.

The journey from planning to execution, from dreaming to doing, is laced with the realization that the most significant obstacles we face are often the narratives we hold about ourselves and our capabilities. Transforming these narratives is where real scaling begins. It’s a process that doesn’t just aim for larger numbers or broader reach but strives for deeper impact and more meaningful success. Through Authentically Connected Coaching®, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the transformative power of action, not just in my life but in the lives of those I work with, turning dreams into tangible realities.

Not Found

I am Leah Ward, the heart and soul behind Authentically Connected Coaching®, a sanctuary for transformative growth and boundless potential. My journey into the realm of coaching was not a straightforward path but a culmination of over two decades of corporate and financial leadership, marked by a deep-seated desire to ignite the spark of potential in others. Amidst the rigor of financial management and the challenges of consulting, I discovered my true calling: to foster profound personal and professional development.

Entering the coaching arena, I was driven by a vision to go beyond the conventional metrics of achievement, focusing on catalyzing meaningful change. As an Associate Certified Coach (ACC) through the International Coaching Federation, with certifications in DISC+ Value Assessments, Positive Intelligence Training Programs, and Authentic Leadership Development, my approach is both eclectic and comprehensive. I offer personalized coaching experiences designed to unleash the unlimited potential within each individual and organization I collaborate with.

I craft my services to support a wide range of needs and aspirations. From 1:1 Coaching for Executives and professionals at a crossroads eager to ascend to new heights, to my specialized 6-month leadership development coaching program that guides participants from initial transition through self-awareness to sustained growth mindset and reflection. The journey extends into my distinctive PQ Positive Intelligence program, enhanced by a supporting app and weekly group coaching sessions. Complementing these individual and group experiences, I facilitate team workshops and host speaking engagements, further nurturing environments where transformation and growth can flourish.

What sets me apart is my unwavering commitment to authenticity and genuine connection. I believe that true growth emerges from a place of self-awareness and genuine engagement with one’s aspirations and challenges. My mission is to create spaces that encourage deep introspection and insightful dialogue, guiding my clients not just toward achieving their goals but toward realizing a version of success that resonates with their deepest values.

I am most proud of the transformative impact I’ve had on my clients’ lives. Witnessing individuals and teams not only reach but surpass their perceived limits, achieving a level of fulfillment and success they once thought unattainable, is profoundly rewarding. It’s a testament to the power of connection, authenticity, and the courage to embrace one’s potential.

For potential clients, know that Authentically Connected Coaching® is not merely a provider of coaching services—it is your partner in your journey toward self-discovery and excellence. Whether you’re navigating the complexities of small business ownership, professional growth, or entrepreneurial ventures, our collaboration is customized to elevate your trajectory toward personal and professional fulfillment.

I am deeply committed to your growth and success, adopting a holistic approach that goes beyond career achievements to embrace your overall well-being. In my coaching, you’ll discover not just guidance, but a dedicated ally on your transformative journey towards success.

Do you have any insights you can share related to maintaining high team morale?

Managing a team and maintaining high morale are challenges that every leader faces, but they also present opportunities to foster a positive, productive work environment. My advice centers on understanding and respecting the diverse communication styles and work preferences of team members. This approach is not just about maintaining morale; it’s about elevating it to new heights.

First and foremost, it’s crucial to recognize that each team member is unique, with their own set of strengths, weaknesses, communication styles, and work preferences. Embracing this diversity is the key to unlocking the full potential of your team. I advocate for starting with open, honest conversations where team members can express their preferences and how they work best. This not only helps in assigning tasks that align with individual strengths but also fosters a culture of mutual respect and understanding.

Creating an environment where everyone feels valued and heard is paramount. Regular check-ins and feedback sessions can significantly contribute to this. However, it’s essential to ensure these are not just perfunctory meetings but genuine opportunities for team members to share their thoughts and feelings. Encourage openness by being vulnerable yourself; when leaders show their human side, it paves the way for trust and deeper connections.

Another strategy is to celebrate both individual and team achievements. Recognition goes a long way in boosting morale and can be as simple as acknowledging someone’s hard work in a team meeting or more formal awards and acknowledgments for significant contributions. Celebrating successes, big and small, reinforces the value each team member brings to the table.

Additionally, investing in team development is critical. This doesn’t only refer to skills training but also to activities that enhance team cohesion and emotional intelligence. Workshops, team-building retreats, or even regular team outings can provide valuable opportunities for team members to connect on a personal level, outside of work tasks.

Finally, maintaining high morale is about leading by example. Your attitude, approach to challenges, and the respect you show to others set the tone for the entire team. Show enthusiasm, maintain a positive outlook even in the face of setbacks, and demonstrate unwavering support for your team. This leadership style not only inspires high morale but also cultivates a resilient and motivated team culture.

In essence, managing a team and maintaining high morale is an ongoing process that requires attention, care, and genuine effort. By respecting the diverse styles and preferences of your team members, fostering open communication, celebrating achievements, investing in team development, and leading by example, you create an environment where morale thrives and everyone feels empowered to contribute their best.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

Starting my own coaching company was the culmination of years of experience, learning, and personal growth. It represented not just a career shift but a commitment to living my purpose: to empower others to achieve their full potential. The timing, however, was far from ideal. Just a week after launching Authentically Connected Coaching®, the world was gripped by the pandemic. This unforeseen challenge tested my resilience like never before.

The early days of the pandemic were fraught with uncertainty. Businesses were floundering, people were losing jobs, and the world seemed to be on pause. It was a time when the need for guidance and support was greater than ever, yet the traditional ways of offering coaching were no longer viable. I was faced with a stark choice: to see this as an insurmountable obstacle or as an opportunity to innovate and truly live by the principles I coach.

I chose the latter. This decision to push forward wasn’t made lightly; it was a testament to my belief in my mission and the value I knew I could bring to people, even in the most challenging times. Adapting to the new normal meant transitioning to virtual platforms, rethinking my service offerings, and finding new ways to connect and provide support. It was a period of rapid learning and adjustment, not just for me but for everyone.

One of the most significant lessons from this time was recognizing the importance of seeking support. As a coach, I’m accustomed to being the one offering guidance, but this situation underscored that resilience isn’t about going it alone; it’s about knowing when to reach out for help. Engaging with mentors, participating in virtual networking groups, and leaning on my community provided me with the strength and insight to navigate these uncharted waters.

This experience highlighted the importance of adaptability, the power of community, and the need for continuous personal and professional development. I learned that resilience is not just about enduring hardship but about finding ways to grow and flourish in the face of it. It taught me that sometimes, the most challenging times can lead to the most significant growth, both for myself and for my clients.

This journey through launching my coaching business right before the pandemic hit has deeply ingrained in me the understanding that resilience is a dynamic force, one that ebbs and flows through the various chapters of our lives. It’s a reminder that feeling resilient one day doesn’t guarantee the same strength the next, highlighting the crucial role of maintaining a positive mindset. Each day, we are faced with a choice: to be overwhelmed by the challenges that come our way or to confront them head-on, using them as stepping stones to grow and advance.

This realization has become a cornerstone of my coaching philosophy. It emphasizes the importance of embracing every day with the knowledge that our choice to move forward, regardless of the hurdles, is a powerful act of resilience. It’s about understanding that our journey is composed of an infinite series of such choices, where the aim is not to avoid falling but to gather the strength to rise each time we do. In this light, resilience is seen not just as the ability to withstand adversity but as the courage to continue moving forward, armed with the belief that each challenge is an opportunity for growth and transformation.

Sharing this perspective with my clients, I aim to inspire them to cultivate resilience by nurturing a positive mindset and recognizing the power of their choices. It’s a message of hope and strength, assuring them that while the path may not always be smooth, their capacity to navigate it with grace and determination is limitless.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.authenticallyconnected.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authenticallyconnectedcoaching/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/leahmwardcoaching
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leahmward/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@authenticallyconnectedcoaching

Image Credits
Caity White, JClarkeImages