My Journey to Coaching

Coaching is my favorite part of being an engineering manager. It’s applying a unique set of skills in a profound collaboration that results in step-wise growth. My journey to becoming a coach began during a challenging career transition, a time when I was riddled with impostor syndrome and self-doubt.

I still vividly remember the fear I felt stepping into a new role, feeling woefully unprepared and expecting failure at every turn. That’s when I first hired a coach—a decision that changed my life. She made me feel heard and supported, guiding me through my fears with calm and clarity. Together, we explored the worst-case scenarios, only to realize that the outcomes I dreaded were either highly unlikely (I don’t think anyone has ever died of embarrassment) or manageable with the right mindset. Her gentle encouragement and emphasis on “facts, not feelings” became beacons in the fog of my insecurity. That investment in myself was worth every penny.

While she was the first coach I formally hired, she wasn’t the only person who shaped my path. Over the years, I’ve had countless unofficial coaches, mentors, and sponsors—some who never realized the impact they had. From them, I learned to empathize with leadership decisions I didn’t fully understand, anticipate changes by reading the tea leaves, and to have clear expectations for my managers, my team, and myself.

Coaching has been a cornerstone of my career. The tools and wisdom I’ve gained from others have not only shaped my trajectory but also brought immense joy and satisfaction. It’s this joy that drives me to pay it forward. Supporting others as they navigate their own challenges is deeply rewarding. Helping someone uncover their path forward, often one they couldn’t see themselves, is a privilege I cherish.

Years of giving and receiving advice have taught me that the best solutions often come from within. A good coach doesn’t provide answers; they provide the tools and space for reflection. Watching someone find their own way through challenges—to grow in confidence and clarity—is one of the most fulfilling experiences I’ve ever had. 

Coaching is more than a professional skill; it’s a reflection of who I am. It’s a practice rooted in empathy, curiosity, and an unwavering belief in the potential of others. As I continue my journey, I hope to inspire more leaders to embrace coaching—not just as a tool for career growth, but as a way to build stronger, more compassionate teams. 

If you are looking learn more tools for managing your feelings of impostor syndrome, checkout my 8-week program!