The short story: to start my own business, it’s a decision I’ll never regret. I love running my company on my terms, and I see it as a great way to train myself as a leader. If you think about it, please go for it!
It took time, I was a slow starter. Twenty years ago, I felt lucky when, after half a year of trying, I found one of the few existing positions as a coach on my own. It took another ten years as an employed coach before I started my own company. I gained a lot of experience, probably much faster, because I had an easier time getting access to new clients. I also attended more coaching courses and I chose to become a member of the International Coaching Federation (ICF), the world’s largest and oldest organization for professional coaches. I volunteered as a chapter host for ICF in Stockholm 2005-2006 and later on the Ethics Committee. In those early days, the ICF began to require certification to prove our quality from an independent source. So we helped because it was fun, and we wanted to be a part of this vibrant new community. Here you can read about my journey as a coach (in Swedish).
The point came when it was my turn to jump and stand on my own two feet. You can read about how it was in my go-solo story, with #subkit.
The picture above is from my first office in the city of Stockholm. I bought two black leather recliners to sit in, and also be able to offer relaxation when needed. A friend helped me with the logo and a business card, and my brother set up my website, then I ordered a sign with the company name for the front door. And flowers, always. I was so happy!
Nowadays, I have let go of my office and coach from our boat, in which I and my husband live and sail around the world. Still happy, still flowers, and still exploring.
All the best,
Anna
Whangarei, 2 November 2022