Ann Mehl Helps You Create The Life You Love

A year ago, almost exactly to the day, I walked away from a frustrating job and an unfulfilling career.  I'd been miserable for ages, nothing seemed to help.  I couldn't commit to a new job, afraid I would just find another unhappy situation.  The feeling of not knowing what to do, of feeling trapped was stifling.

Over drinks one night, my friend Kelly - the queen of information and resources - tells me she recently met with a Career/Life Coach, Ann Mehl. She had met with her to help identify her true career path. A bell went off in my head - someone actually does this? A bit sceptical, but also hopeful I did a little research and setup a meeting.  Ann studied under Oprah's coach, Martha Beck.  And well, Oprah seems to be doing okay.  I went to Ann's site and found the definition of Life Coach.

"A coach is an advocate to help you to realize your potential. A coach partners with you in identifying what you want and then helping you to achieve success. "Success" means being your personal best, most authentic self. It may translate to doing work that you love, finding joy or maintaining financial freedom. Whether you want support in breaking free from self-limiting beliefs, achieving a specific goal, or finding a career direction, a coach can help you to get there."

A year later, I'm so happy I called her.  Part head-hunter, part therapist, Ann was exactly what I needed.  After months of reflection and adding a little confidence to my thinking I was able to walk away from the unhappiness and start my own business.

Through the trials, tribulations, celebrations and landmarks, Ann has been an amazing support. She helps me find the courage in myself and also reminds me to be kind to myself when things haven't moved as fast as I thought they would. Life is always a work in progress, it's wonderful to have someone to help get through things. 

As I've worked with her, I've learned what an incredible person she is.  The enjoyment she gains from helping people is nothing short of amazing.  She is dedication and commitment personified, as exemplified by the fact that she's run more than 40 (yes, you read that right!) marathons.  She's accomplished so much and wants to help you do the same.

Ann answered some questions I've always wanted to ask - and now I get to share her answers with you!

What is your approach to coaching?

I believe that each individual is unique in his/her gifts, interests and preferences. My job as a coach is to gather key information about my clients and honor and support each of their goals. To gain clarity and results I conduct exercises as a part of a multi-step process which includes self-exploration, overcoming blocks, exploring options, research, testing out, strategic planning, follow-through for results and mastering skills. I gather pieces of the puzzle, which includes things my clients love to do, what’s important to them, and ultimately what they deeply want. I ask questions until we’ve determined all of the components of their ideal life. Once we are able to see the whole picture, we move towards designing a plan. Coaching allows me to participate in the countless small miracles that occur in the lives of people who have the courage and openness to embrace change. I help my clients to discover their purpose and create a life and career they will love.

What is the most common issue people come to you with as a life coach?

We all make choices every day of our lives. But, I find that my clients often think that they have no choices, that they are victims to circumstance. This is the single biggest impediment to finding their own “North Star”. I help my clients to see the difference between “I choose to” and “I have to”. This allows them to see that they have far more power to shape their lives than they may have thought. I challenge my clients to move forward by identifying and eventually disputing their deeply held beliefs, (personal dogmas) about the world, which are detrimental to their growth. By doing this, I help to create wiggle room or a space for change to take root and flourish.

How has coaching impacted your own life?

The privilege of working as a certified coach comes with the obligation to give your very best to the clients you serve. Anyone can share unrealistic pep talks but I work to give much more in order to make a real and lasting difference in people’s lives. In order to do that, I live by the mantra, you have to live it, to give it. Becoming a coach has inspired me to live my life to the fullest every day. I strive to incorporate a balanced lifestyle so that I can be fully present to my clients’ matters. I practice self-care and exercise healthy boundaries in order to conserve energy in support of my practice.

Is there one piece of advice you think everyone should have?

Don’t be afraid to make mistakes and go for it. Go for whatever you think is impossible. Don’t let fear keep you from trying. (I guess that’s more than one;)

Do you see many parallels between coaching and marathon training?

Yes, I do! Running personally grants me confidence and a positive outlook on everything. Even on my worst days, I gain inner strength and satisfaction simply from trying. I became a coach because I wanted to help other people expand their sense of self. Though the setting may be more formalized, the goal is always the same – a gentle and loving push to help others in discovering and affirming their own inner abilities. With a little encouragement, we can all accomplish things that may at first seem beyond our reach. Whatever your own personal marathon, I believe that the same mind-set I use in prepping for long-distance-running events may speak to you as well. These are not rules, but more a set of values to keep in mind: http://www.bettyconfidential.com/ar/h/a/a03726.html

Ann Mehl, Certified Life and Career Coach.

To learn more about Ann or schedule a meeting her with, visit her website: http://www.annmehl.com