Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Traci Bateman. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Traci, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. If you had a defining moment that you feel really changed the trajectory of your career, we’d love to hear the story and details.

From the age of 14, when I faced the devastating loss of my mother to breast cancer, I embarked on a journey of profound personal growth and self-discovery. This pivotal moment, although heartbreakingly painful, unknowingly set the stage for the rest of my life, influencing my future relationships, educational pursuits, and ultimately, my career path.

Growing up without a mother and lacking a traditional support network threw me into a path of premature independence and resilience. As a teenager grappling with such a significant loss, I found myself navigating the complexities of life with a mix of determination and naivety. This combination led to countless mistakes, yet it was through these very missteps that I learned invaluable lessons about perseverance and personal strength.

The absence of guidance forced me to work harder, often not smarter, and it was during these formative years that I unknowingly sowed the seeds of what would later become a flourishing career in health and wellness. My experiences taught me the importance of holistic well-being—not just physical health but emotional and mental resilience. This realization was not immediate but a gradual awakening as I healed and grew stronger from my personal trials.

My professional journey eventually led me to establish a business centered on health and wellness, designed to support individuals in their quest to feel better and live more fulfilled lives. Today, as a health and life coach, my mission is to empower women who are facing transitions, whether they are battling health issues, career changes, or personal loss. I strive to be more than just a coach; I aim to be a steadfast cheerleader and a supportive guide, helping others harness their inner strength to overcome challenges and achieve their goals.

Through my work, I channel my personal experiences of loss and learning into a source of strength and inspiration for others. My mother’s battle and the subsequent impact on my life taught me the transformative power of adversity. It is my hope that by sharing my story and the lessons I’ve learned, I can help others not only navigate their struggles but thrive in spite of them.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

My journey is marked by several pivotal moments that not only shaped my personal life but also carved out a unique professional path that blends creativity, wellness, and empathy.

In my twenties, driven by a mix of naivety and a search for stability, I ventured into marriage, only to find that it was not the haven I had anticipated. This experience, though challenging, taught me valuable lessons about independence and self-worth, lessons that were crucial when I met my true soul mate in my 30’s and moved cities, starting a new role as a stepmother. Embracing this change, I also decided to pursue a long-held passion for creativity in Interior Design, earning my second degree at 35 and launching my third business venture.

The entrepreneurial spirit didn’t stop there. When my husband had the opportunity to sell his family’s grocery business, we leapt at the chance to create something revolutionary—a high-end day spa and wellness center that integrated yoga with luxury spa treatments as well as medical esthetics, a first of its kind in Western Canada. Our venture was flourishing until the global pandemic struck, challenging us to adapt dramatically. With group activities like yoga making up a significant portion of our business, we had to rethink our strategy, leading to staff layoffs, an online business pivot, and a renovation to downsize the yoga space while enhancing our focus on medical aesthetics and vitamin infusion therapy.

During this period, I observed a common thread among many people—they were giving up on themselves amidst the chaos of COVID-19. This observation sparked a deep desire within me to support others not just physically but on a more profound, personal level. Driven by this new passion, I pursued further education in health and life coaching, obtaining five certificates and leveraging years of experience supporting our spa staff.

Today, as a health and life coach, I bring a unique perspective to my practice. My diverse background, from managing a thriving wellness center to navigating personal and professional upheavals, allows me to connect with clients on a meaningful level. I focus on tuning into individual needs, encouraging resilience, and fostering a holistic approach to health that transcends physical well-being. My journey has taught me that with the right support and commitment, anyone can redefine their life, even in the face of adversity.

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

One of the most significant lessons I had to unlearn was the belief that it wasn’t lady-like to stand out and own your space. Growing up, I was taught to be a supporter—someone who should be seen and not heard. This mindset subtly ingrained the idea that asserting myself was somehow inappropriate or unwelcome, especially as a woman.

Over time, I realized that this belief was not only limiting but also contrary to who I inherently was. I had to learn to embrace my individuality and assert my presence confidently. The journey to this realization was neither quick nor easy. It involved a profound transformation in how I viewed myself and my role in both personal and professional contexts.

Learning to own who I was meant shedding the fear of being perceived as overbearing or conceited. It was about understanding that you can be strong and assertive while still being compassionate and respectful. I had to practice standing firm in my convictions and expressing my thoughts without diminishing my voice to make others comfortable.

The process of unlearning involved not just personal reflection but also actively challenging the norms and expectations that had once defined my behavior. It meant being okay with taking up space and being vocal about my achievements and capabilities. I learned to celebrate myself openly and encourage others to recognize their worth without hesitation.

Ultimately, the lesson was not just about rejecting outdated notions of propriety but about embracing the full extent of my potential. I learned that playing small served no one, least of all myself. By loving and accepting the person I am, I found the strength to tell people about my strengths and achievements, not with arrogance, but with genuine self-appreciation and confidence.

If you could go back in time, do you think you would have chosen a different profession or specialty?

Reflecting on the journey of opening and running my spa, I often find myself grappling with mixed emotions. If I had to do it again, would I embark on this path? It’s a question that doesn’t come with an easy answer. My husband and I invested our life savings into this venture, and the initial years of working together were incredibly challenging, both professionally and for our marriage.

For the first three years, we collaborated closely, and even as our roles evolved over the last decade, the strain on our relationship has been palpable. Despite the success and growth of our business, which is now thriving with a fabulous reputation and a significant brand presence, the financial aspects remain a concern. Our high rent and staffing costs have always been a substantial burden, and they continue to impede our profitability.

Yet, it’s not all about the financial bottom line. The spa has brought immense rewards—it’s a creation that we built from the ground up, a business that stands out in the community and positively impacts the lives of our clients. Moreover, this journey has propelled me onto a new path: health and life coaching. This pivot was largely inspired by my experiences at the spa, where I realized my passion for helping others on a deeper, more personal level.

So, would I do it all over again? It’s a tough call. While the financial challenges and the strain on personal relationships have been significant, the opportunity to build something meaningful from scratch and to find a new calling in coaching has been uniquely fulfilling. These experiences have shaped me into who I am today, taught me invaluable lessons, and led me to a role where I can make a significant difference in people’s lives. If I were to go back, I might approach certain aspects differently, perhaps with more caution regarding financial planning and work-life balance. Yet, the essence of what we’ve built and the new paths it has opened up? Those I would not trade away.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://tracicoaches.com
• Instagram: @traci_coaches
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tracicoaches
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/traci-bateman-60775526/