An estimated 30,000 coaches practice throughout the world today. Personal and business coaching is an ongoing professional relationship that helps people produce extraordinary results in their lives, careers, businesses or organizations. It can add value to your life. Although there are several different certifying bodies, 12,000 of these coaches are members of this trade organization - the International Coaching Federation (ICF). A little over one quarter of the members (3200) are certified by ICF to practice coaching, and 1.92% (624) of them are Master Certified Coaches and I am one of the Master Certified Coaches. The best of the best participated in this annual conference.



For three days, I soaked in the wisdom shared from 21 speakers as well as from my fellow coaches. As per my own previous suggestions in my Success Thought of the Week, I sought out one-on-one conversations with the speakers and fellow coaches that most interested me. Some were inspiring, most were thought provoking, while one brought tears to my eyes.

To me, the most intriguing speaker was Julio Olalla, MCC, founder and president of Newfield Network. I've sought Julio's wisdom often through the years, and I have never been disappointed. He is a ball of energy, enlightenment, and knowledge.

Julio's primary message is this: it is critically important to 'be in the moment' vs. living in 'your story.' And just what is your story? For some it is cancer; for some, divorce; for some, the economy, or childhood abuse, or it's about being fired. We just can't let go of our story. We allow this heavy, dark, 'story' to live and breathe within us each day, and it seemingly prevents us from seeing the possibilities directly in front of us.

In living in the 'present moment' on the other hand, we are excitingly alive! Doors open to creativity, insight, new perspectives and brand new experiences.

This 'present moment' experience is a primary focus of coaching excellence on any level, whether it is for business coaching, executive coaching, or life coaching. We coaches (who have had our own 'stories' to get beyond) seek to help our clients learn from their individual present moments.

I'll expand on this concept and many more explored at the conference in coming weeks. This week, simply notice yourself slipping back and forth from your 'story' to present moment. When are you more alive and inspired? Here and now? Or in 'your story?' I'd love to write about experiences in my upcoming 'Success Thoughts' so be sure to share them with me.

Have a great week and enjoy your discoveries!