Welcome to the first issue of Curly Hair | Straight Talk, a monthly missive dedicated to topics close to my heart. The goal is not only to have a conversation with you. I hope my writing will facilitate a more meaningful conversation: one you have with YOURSELF.

I want you to think more deeply about your work, your relationships with others, and most importantly, your relationship with yourself because that’s the foundation everything is built on. 

For you over-achievers who are ready to dig in, start the conversation by completing a values assessment here.

In the Talking Heads song “Once in a Lifetime,” David Byrne asks, “How did I get here?”

You got here because we have a relationship, or because our paths have crossed, and I’d like to stay connected. But, if you want to unsubscribe, as the Aussies say, no worries. Find the "unsubscribe" link at the bottom of this email.

It’s been exactly 24 months since I left my nearly 30-year corporate career. I said goodbye to a regular paycheck, 401(k), subsidized healthcare plan, and paid time off to start my leadership and career coaching practice. It’s one of the scariest decisions I’ve ever made and one of the best. If you want to read more about it, check out my blog post, “Breaking Up with My 9-5.”

Not long ago, I wouldn’t have believed you’d be interested. I was used to being in the background. I’m the youngest in my family, so I took up whatever space was left when the stork dropped me off.

Later, and for more than a third of my career, I supported senior executives. Like a snowplow in the night--without leaving a trace--I cleared the road so others could proceed. I wasn’t in the front of the room delivering the presentations. My name was missing from the slide decks.

That’s why it surprised me when I learned people were interested in my story, and not only interested. Some were inspired by the two career pivots I’ve made, and how I made them. (You can find out more on the home page of my website.)

I'm no longer clearing the roads for others. The sun’s up. I’m behind the wheel of a large automobile, and I’m asking myself, “Where does this highway go to?”

Let’s find out together. I hope to see you next month.

Want to start your journey towards a more fulfilling career? Schedule a complimentary, one-hour coaching session now or share this link with someone who may be interested.