Our main objective here at the National Coach Academy is to enable aspiring coaches to reach their full professional potential. One of the most effective ways to educate students about the world of coaching is by offering them a window into the world of real, practicing coaches and showing them all the different ways coaches make a difference in the lives of their clients.
We hope today’s interview adds another insightful glimpse into the dynamic world of coaching.
Today we are interviewing Cecil Wong. Cecil is a Certified Life Coach based in San Francisco, California.
NCA: Can you describe your coaching practice and the kinds of clients you typically work with?
Cecil: Family Connections Coaching partners with individuals and organizations to clarify and move towards greater health and integration. I believe wholeness supports the growth and development needed to effectively lead and manage our personal and professional lives. My clients have been parents, young couples, as well as leaders of nonprofit organizations.
NCA: What initially got you interested in this career path and what kind of degree or certifications did you need to complete, if any?
Cecil: In 2010, I started a director position to support the Christian education ministry of a church. In that role, I worked with a large volunteer staff as well as parents. A friend informed me of an introductory seminar on coaching and after attending, I knew this skill set would greatly increase my ability to challenge and support my staff and families. I started an ICF approved program in 2011 and got my Certificate of Transformational Coaching in 2014.
NCA: What is the most rewarding part of your career?
Cecil: I’ve found tremendous satisfaction in my clients’ courage, commitment and breakthrough’s in growing up and waking up. Seeing them progress in more meaningful awareness and skills of self leadership and care that results in more effective navigation in personal and professional matters.
Lay a firm foundation: Know yourself and love who and what you are without judgment. Love in a way that honors others and self. Prioritize space and time to be alone, silent, and still.
NCA: What is the most challenging aspect of the work that you do?
Cecil: Early on and to a lesser extent now, it was getting clear about my unique brand and expertise. Of course this made for lackluster marketing. But as I followed my instinct to continue learning about leadership and spirituality, and moving confidently into the unknown, who and what I am as a coach and individual, has empowered me to progress in this ambiguity. This process has been a great exercise in developing wisdom and understanding into my own ongoing transformation.
NCA: Can you think of one client or mentor who challenged your beliefs or made you rethink the way you approach your clients or your work?
Cecil: Not anyone in particular but clients whom I’ve worked with that had great difficulty getting unstuck and yet had the courage and persistence that kept them committed to the change process were the ones that kept me learning and open to greater understanding the breadth and depth of soul and spirit to discover hidden factors and dynamics. This has helped me clarify the importance of wholeness that comes from growing up and waking up to become better leaders and lovers. The integrity this produces effectively matures and fulfills us to be and do our best.
NCA: Finally, what advice would you give someone looking to get started in the career path that you chose?
Cecil: Lay a firm foundation: Know yourself and love who and what you are without judgment. Love in a way that honors others and self. Prioritize space and time to be alone, silent, and still. Do the hard work of healing and peacemaking, especially with your past and associated ruminations. Make freedom and courage core values if they aren’t already. With this established, show up at home and work in your ongoing newness. Envision your new path of greater integration. Create plans for needed transitions. Work with a coach to support your growth and actions.
