Kay speaks frequently at Toastmasters events, and I attended every one of her sessions that I could.  I used Kay’s being on the agenda to sell Toastmasters’ conferences to other people!  I knew she provided private coaching, but I was reluctant to take the plunge until two women whom I trust and whose opinion I value told me about their work with Kay.

My experience has been enlightening, at times extremely uncomfortable, and probably one of the best things I’ve ever done.  I’ve learned some difficult things about myself:

• Good girls defy authority by never getting around to doing the things they really don’t want to do – rebellion by omission.
• Being a fully functioning adult means that I must be my own parent; no one else is going to make me accomplish anything.
• As an extrovert, I let my need for personal contact erode the time I should use to complete projects that will impact my bottom line, and I worry too much about people liking me.

As a result, I rolled up my sleeves and got to work.  I learned to focus my time on the things that matter, not just on the current to-do list.  I changed the way I manage my team and the manner with which I interact with people higher up the chain of command.  I prepared more thoroughly for meetings and presentations.  I got things done.

If you’re thinking about working with a coach, I say just do it!  It will be worth the investment you make in yourself.

Christine R. Ross FCAS MAAA CPCU ARe ARM AIM AIDA
Secretary, P&C Reserving
The Cincinnati Insurance Companies
https://www.linkedin.com/in/christine-ross-b38b5a13/