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 Victoria Crawford. Victoria is a Certified Leadership and Life Coach based in Phoenix, Arizona. She is the author of The Art & Practice of Trust: Finding Your Way Through Uncertainty, Change & Transition.
NCA: Can you describe your coaching practice and the kinds of clients you typically work with?
Victoria: I work with individuals that are going through a time of transition or change. They are usually in mid-life or close to retirement and are looking for what has heart and meaning for them at this time in their life. They want to see the big picture in their life, gain clarity and create positive change.
NCA: What initially got you interested in this career path and what kind of degree or certifications did you need to complete, if any?
Victoria: Ever since I can remember, I have been interested in personal and spiritual growth. I was always intrigued by what allowed people to thrive and achieve their dreams and what stopped them.
I became a personal leadership and life coach over 22 years ago and started working within corporations and business helping individuals and teams achieve their goals. Ten years ago I changed to working solely with individuals and teaching spiritual and transformational workshops and retreats. I felt that individuals were looking for a safe, confidential space to deepen personal and spiritual growth and I wanted to provide that.
NCA: What is the most rewarding part of your career?
Victoria: The most rewarding part is being able to see people shift from fear, self doubt and worry and learn instead to trust themselves, listen to their own wisdom and take action on it. A close second to that is helping them move past obstacles to create the positive change that they want.
Ever since I can remember, I have been interested in personal and spiritual growth. I was always intrigued by what allowed people to thrive and achieve their dreams and what stopped them.
NCA: What is the most challenging aspect of the work that you do?
Victoria: Helping individuals understand how important it is to create space in their lives. To take the time they need to discover themselves and what is most important to them.
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?
Victoria: My mentor and teacher was Angeles Arrien, Ph.D. She lived a life of wisdom and integrity and provided simple tools to bridge the spiritual and practical world.
NCA: Finally, what advice would you give someone looking to get started in the career path that you chose?
Victoria: Keep your day job until your practice is strong enough to support you financially. Coaching ideally comes from a place of service and if there are financial burdens, it can get in the way of how you present yourself, how you listen and how you offer to serve another.
