What I learned from 4 years of coaching at the Massachusetts Conference for Women

The last four years of coaching for ICFNE (International Coaching Federation of New England) at the Massachusetts Conference for Women revealed an inspiring common theme: women striving to find the perfect balance of professional success and personal fulfillment. From a VP looking for a lateral move, a stay-at-home mom seeking meaningful work, to a seasoned finance professional searching for a director role, the stories of these incredible women are both empowering and filled with lessons to learn.

Read on to discover what success looks like for each woman and the steps they took to make it happen. From finding the right mentors to boosting self-confidence, and learning how to delegate, join us as we explore the journeys of these inspiring women and feel inspired to take the lead in your own life.

• One woman had been at the same company for 18 years, and felt there were lots of growth opportunities, yet was looking for a lateral move within the company. She was hindered by her lack of experience in other departments. She wanted to collaborate, but also have ownership of the project, and was looking for a leadership role to reach a balance between life and work.

• Another woman had been out of work for two years and was struggling to find a career that would allow her to be there for her family, while still being meaningful and defining her as a person.

• Another woman was approaching 50 and was looking for a way to define her future. She had been a stay-at-home mom for 10 years, and wanted to find a way to find a job that made her feel in control of her career, and allowed her to reach a work-life balance.

• One woman wanted to move up in her career and find a role that felt like she was progressing, without needing a PhD to do so. She also wanted to manage her work-life balance, as she had a toddler and wanted another baby.

• Another woman had two adult children and was working in a start-up, managing marketing and sales. She was feeling overwhelmed but wanted to find a way to feel confident in herself and her capabilities.

• Another woman had ambitions for full financial independence and wanted to be promoted in the next couple of years, but needed to find the right work culture to do so.

• Another woman had been in a high-stress job for 7 years and was wanting to find a job that gave her stability and recognition from her employer.

• One woman had an upcoming interview for a Director position and wanted guidance on how to prepare for this type of role while feeling confident in herself.

• Another woman was struggling with being a manager of 4 employees and was looking for ways to delegate tasks, and also find ways to build her confidence.

• Lastly, one woman had been in finance for 15 years and wanted to find ways to advance her career, become more visible, and secure a director or manager role. She also wanted to find mentors who would stick around and support her.

The stories are diverse, but the underlying theme is the same: a desire for balance, growth, and self-fulfillment. I'm proud to have been part of the journey for so many women.

No matter where they wanted to take their career, all of these women taught me one thing: Everyone deserves a chance to follow their dreams. 💭