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 Viviana Estrada. Viviana is an independent life coach providing solutions primarily based on Chinese metaphysics. She is based in Plantation, Florida.
NCA: Can you describe your coaching practice and the kinds of clients you typically work with?
Viviana: I typically help women, they (we) seem to be more open to share life issues with others and to look for support. I have a holistic way of coaching that takes in consideration the physical and non-physical aspects that impact the individual and I use techniques at the physical and non-physical levels, which allow individuals to reach their goals.
NCA: What initially got you interested in this career path and what kind of degree or certifications did you need to complete, if any?
Viviana: I hold a BS in Industrial Engineering and while working at corporate America I had the opportunity to get into Chinese metaphysics and I became passionate about it. Chinese metaphysics has many areas of study and all of them deal with the concept of vital energy, a concept little known in the western side of the world but very powerful and useful when it comes to improve our well being. After becoming certified in several Chinese metaphysics areas of study I decided that the best way to take my knowledge to my community was through a coaching practice.
NCA: What is the most rewarding part of your career and on the flip side, what is the most challenging aspect of the work that you do?
Viviana: The most rewarding part is creating a positive impact on the life and well being of my clients. The most challenging part is setting up the limits of my services.
NCA: Can you think of a mentor who was most vital to your success as a coach? In what ways did this mentor help you to thrive in your career?
Viviana: One of my Chinese metaphysics master is a great coach himself, even though he doesn’t call himself coach nor master. He has permanently inspired me to become better myself to be in a better position to help others become better.
NCA: Finally, what advice would you give someone looking to get started in the career path that you chose?
Viviana: Select a market niche and provide a solution for that market niche. Don’t try to be everything for everybody.