I am convinced that the word "coaching" can have quite a confusing meaning for many people. If you feel that you are one of them, let me assure you - you are not alone!
For some people, the only image that comes to mind when they hear it is some strong fitness instructor, ready to push your body’s limits to the edge. Well, perhaps there is some parallel. In a similar way, we can think of life-coaching as something that pushes and expands the limits of our minds. It’s deliberate and productive.
Sounds too good to be true? I absolutely agree that it does. Good news is that, in this case, "too good to be true" is actually... true.
Research experiments consistently confirm the benefits.
Nevertheless, here is the tricky part. The coaching process is unique for every participant in it.
Despite there being a structure and a method behind each session, it is driven by the client, above all.
You may have heard a friend claiming that coaching had helped him/her get their dream job with just one session, or that they got a ground-breaking insight into how they can overcome some emotional challenges. But experiencing coaching for yourself can be absolutely unpredictable. There is no such thing as “the right formula”. Going to a session with one purpose in mind can end up being a journey of discovering a bunch of new aspects about yourself - some amazing, others not so, but all valuable. You can use that as an opportunity to lay the foundation for your path of deeper self-improvement and self-discovery.
Let us introduce you to one such personal perspective - that of our brilliant client Bilyana Lesidrenska.
She is a great professional and leader in the field of Landschaft architecture. She's been growing and improving in it for 15 years now. In 2018 Bilyana co-founded “Botanic Lab” - a company that specializes in interior landscaping. She is also a board member of the Landshaft Architects chapter of the CHAMBER OF ARCHITECTS IN BULGARIA.
As a managing partner and CEO, she aims at transforming urban areas into greener, more beautiful and above all - healthier living environments.
Her love for nature and harmony doesn't end here. This aim is not just a work goal but a part of Bilyana's DNA. She is both passionate about nature and a true adventurer.
“I enjoy the extreme expriences, but I also love the quiet mountain paths where all you can hear is the rhythm of your heart.” - she says.
On her last trip, Bilyana combined her dynamic side with deep connection to the surrounding. She and her husband conquered the picturesque, pilgrimage route “Camino de Santiago” in Spain. They cycled the 800km trail successfully and felt incredibly grateful of the effort and friendships they made.
The reality is that you don't need a coach just when you encounter a problem, but also when you feel like you need a stronger force to be at your corner when you want to keep thriving and improving. That's indeed when coaching proves it can have transformative and long-lasting impact. Difficulties are a part of the journey. They are not the exception, they are the rule. The more we learn how to deal with them with grace and ease, the more room we find what matters to us in life, and in business.
“short episodes of physical and emotional weakness, dizziness without medical explanation and difficulty when focusing or making decisions. I started looking for more opportunities to rest but soon realized that this wouldn't be enough. Through a frind of mine, who's been using ILC's services for psychological wellbeing and leadership purposes for about a year, I got the contact details and chose to book a session with Valentina."
B: Overall, I believe that communication can lead to a positive change in the short or long-term condition of a person. I expected the coaching experience to be useful, but in reality, it turned out to be priceless.
“On the first meeting with Valentina I realized I have someone by my side, who is results oriented and after the initial 60 minutes I left confident that I will not only find my balance again but will also open a new chapter in my life.”
The coaching process, in her opition, made a significant difference in her emotional and physical health. It helped her retain her balance in challenging situations and stay focused with a plan of action.
As an interviewer, I think I can confidently conclude that Bilyana is an amazing example of someone who didn't shy away from embarking on a unique adventure in the area of personal growth and improvement.
She says that she found coaching exactly when she needed a deliberate change in her life, and definitely got it.
So, if you feel down or lost right now, here is a tip from her that can lift up your spirits!
Play “Who you say I am” by Hillsong and “Happy” by Pharrell Williams. Music is powerful!
And don't forget, there is an exit at the end of every tunnel, even though it may feel like it's endless darkness.
Thank you Bilyana for being an inspiration, an example and a really valuable person that we all have a chance to know.
For us, mrs. Lesidrenska is a person that gives meaning to everything that we do. It's our light at the end of the tunnel and our private motivational drive.
You can connect with her on LinkedIn or at www.botaniclab.bg