Dolores DeGiacomo, MA – Empowerment and Life Coach

I am fortunate to have a close relationship with the children of a friend, whom I’ve known for 25 years.  His 16 year old son likes to tell his friends that he has his own life coach.  They don’t really know what it means, but when he says it, he makes it sound cool.  They are envious and they want one too.  When I first decided to become a life coach, I had to figure out how to explain this to my friends, family, new acquaintances, etc.  I was instructed to develop my “elevator speech.”  I have not yet mastered this glorious 30 seconds of self promotion, but I’m getting there.Most professionals have encountered a coach during their careers. Generally it’s a business coach hired by their employer.  It’s no surprise then when I tell someone I am a coach they ask “what companies have you worked with?”  I respond that I am an empowerment and life coach, followed by an explanation.  I do have a speech.  It’s not even close to 30 seconds, it goes something like this: “I am engaged with people who feel disempowered or out of control in their lives.  I help them to work through the difficulties of relationships, increasing self confidence, addressing food and wellness, and improving communication, among other things.  Together, we work through the day to day issues that prevent them from reaching their potential and experiencing happiness and satisfaction in their lives.  I respect their individuality and complexity and take the role of navigator and guide.  Tell me where you want to go, what tools you have to get there and I will get you there.  We’ll utilize some of the tools you have and develop new and useful ones along the way.”  This garners a variety of responses.  I enjoy the interesting conversations it elicits.  It creates an opportunity for people to express themselves openly and honestly.  That’s empowering!