“Ask for help. Not because you are weak. But because you want to remain strong.” -Les Brown
In January 2020, I came to a difficult realization: the career I had dreamed of as an 18-year-old—being an educator—was no longer fulfilling me. Instead, I found myself struggling with burnout, anxiety, depression, and early signs of PTSD. I knew I needed a change, and that started with seeking help. I began working closely with my doctor and therapist to find tools that would improve my physical and mental health.
As the following school year progressed, it became clear that it needed to be my last. With the support of a career transition coach, I started to explore what a new path might look like. I also reached out to the head of my teachers’ union, who provided invaluable guidance. She helped me approach my administrators with feedback from a place of calm and confidence, ensuring that the systemic issues impacting my health were addressed. Additionally, I sought out a local Co-Active Coach who helped me build a vision for my future. We worked on shifting my mindset from “I can only teach children” to “I am an awesome human with many transferable skills… I can be a business owner and help adults!”
On June 18th, 2021, I walked out of the classroom for the last time, and I have no regrets.
Leaving teaching didn’t magically solve all my problems. Last fall, after a particularly intense panic attack, I sought out a therapist trained in PTSD. There were tears, tough moments, and a lot of hard work, but the self-awareness and tools I gained have continued to support me this spring.
I’m also incredibly grateful to the hiring team at EdConnective. During my transition out of teaching, I applied (twice) for a position with them, and they took a chance on me! This fall, I started working as a virtual instructional coach, helping teachers improve their practice. It’s been a joy to take my years of teaching experience and use them to pour energy, love, and resources into other educators.
Currently, I’m working towards becoming a certified Co-Active Coach. The journey has been transformative, and I’ve learned so much from my colleagues and course leaders. The Co-Active cornerstone—that we are all (coaches and clients) creative, resourceful, and whole—resonates deeply with me. Through this journey, I’ve connected with inspiring individuals like Michelle, Jame, and other Work Pirates, who have encouraged me to play big with my dreams and take meaningful action.
As a new coach and business owner, I’m constantly learning—sometimes more than I’d like! A lesson I seem to relearn daily is the importance of asking for help, whether it’s from a connection, a mentor, the bank, or another service provider. Overcoming pride and insecurities to seek help isn’t always easy, but it’s essential. Asking for help has been foundational to establishing Sturdy Coaching AS. It’s allowed me to create a business that aligns with my values, taps into my strengths, and challenges me to keep learning and growing. The possibilities feel endless, which both excites and terrifies me.
As I reflect on this journey, three key themes emerge: self-awareness, belief in my own potential, and a willingness to ask for and find the help I needed. Sometimes that meant venting to a colleague or friend; often, it meant seeking out an expert. For me, that meant calling my doctor, talking to my union representatives, finding the right therapist and coach, and participating in courses that opened new doors.
So, I ask you: Are you good at seeking help? Is there an area of your life that could improve if you reached out? It’s not easy, but I promise—it’s worth it.