Dear Reader,

If you’re hearing the Talking Heads in your head right now thanks to the subject line of this email, you’re not alone. That lyric has been running through mine pretty constantly as I reflect on a new personal milestone: earning a new coaching credential, my PCC (Professional Certified Coach), through the International Coaching Federation (ICF).

Because five years ago? This wasn’t the plan.

At the time, I was a research executive at a major media company, climbing the corporate ladder in the only field I’d ever known (and loved).

Coaching? A career pivot? Not even on my radar. But as life often does, it threw me a curveball.

My role was affected by an organizational consolidation. At the time, it felt devastating. All of a sudden, I had decisions to make.

Most importantly, what did I want to do with my life going forward? Did I want to cling to the familiar or open myself up to something new?

I won’t pretend it was an easy decision. Stepping into the unknown never is. But sometimes, the things we don’t see coming are exactly what we need.

Fast forward to today, and I’m celebrating an achievement I never could have imagined back then: obtaining my 2nd coaching credential from the ICF.

I can assure you, this was no easy feat.

The exam itself? Brutal. I walked out of it truly not knowing if I had passed or failed. The kind of test where your brain replays every answer on an endless loop, whispering, Did I totally blow that?

And when I got my results? Pure relief. 😮‍💨

But this milestone wasn’t just about one (very stressful) test. It was built on years of learning, stretching, and growing in ways I never anticipated. Since 2021, I’ve had the privilege of:

✅ Completing over 200 hours of intensive Co-Active coach training

✅ Practicing and mastering the ICF core competencies

✅ Nearly 800 hours coaching incredible clients across multiple countries

Here’s what this experience has reinforced for me: We don’t always end up where we thought we would, but often, that’s exactly where we’re meant to be.

Sometimes, the detours, the unexpected shifts, the “what now?” moments, turn out to be the most meaningful parts of the journey.

Maybe you’re facing a change you didn’t plan for. Maybe you’re questioning if you’re on the right path or if it’s time to pivot.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: Trust the twists and turns. Stay open. Let yourself grow into something bigger than you imagined.

The best things in life often come from the moments we never saw coming.

And Reader, if you're navigating change and need a thinking partner, I’m here to help. Let’s chat.

With ease, Tracy

PS In case you're unfamiliar with Talking Heads, are curious about the song I alluded to in the subject, or you simply haven't listened to Once in a Lifetime in a while, here's a link to one of my favorite performances of it. Enjoy!

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I offer 1:1 coaching, group coaching, team facilitation, and public speaking, and tailor offerings to the specific needs of you/your workplace. ​Contact me to learn more​.

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