Seeds Life Coach Vancouver - A Life Coach for Women

We can figure this out together

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 21 Jan 2015 15:28:00 +0000

In times of struggle, when we find things hard, its easy to shut down and try to avoid what's hurting us.

One of the best ways to help ourselves is to talk. Talking our issues over with somebody is a great way of processing our feelings and working toward a solution.

However, choosing the right person to talk to can be tricky. A friend or family member may have our best interests at heart, but they can often be judgemental, take sides and try to solve our problems for us.

This rarely helps as most of us just need somebody to listen, show empathy and understand. After that, we need somebody to offer support by gently inquiring about our feelings. From there, we are able to find our own way in our own time. This way is much more rewarding for us!

When it comes to relationships, all of the above is probably more pertinent than in many other situations. This is where I can offer you something to help.

For a limited time, I am giving away the opportunity to talk. The opportunity to talk with somebody who has your best interests at heart, won't judge you, will hold a comfortable space for you and will support you by listening to you and understanding how you feel.

All you have to do is click the link below to find out what the offer is.

http://ethicaldeal.com/vancouver/deal/$29-for-three-1-hour-life-coaching-sessions-support-for-creative,-professional-women

I hope to connect with you real soon.

Warmly,

Matt.

10 Questions to Ask Yourself When Feeling Stuck in Your Career

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 19 Apr 2014 17:19:00 +0000

Hello,

Do you feel stuck in your career?

Often when you feel stuck it's like going around in circles. This is because we often ask ourselves negative statements rather than powerful questions.

For example; I don't know what to do. I'm not sure what my options are. I don't feel I can make a change. I'm not sure there's anything out there in my field.

This kind of thinking reinforces your feeling of being stuck and increases your chances of staying stuck.

Working as a career counseller in Vancouver, I often meet clients who are experiencing this issue.

One thing to remember is that your thoughts lead to feelings, which form beliefs that lead to behaviors that bring us certain outcomes.

For example, you might think: "I'm not able to get a job in a higher paid position".

This then makes you feel: "I'm not worthy of a better career. I feel helpless and inadequate".

This then forms a belief you actually AREN'T worthy or adequate, which in turn encourages you to act out the behviors of somebody who ISN'T worthy or adequate.

You see the pattern here? Do you recognize it in yourself?

Here's a little trick to counter this kind of thinking and get unstuck.

Instead of thinking negative statements, focus on asking yourself powerful questions. Here are 10 powerful questions to ask yourself when feeling stuck in your career:

What do I want my career to be?
What's present now that's in the way?
What's in my control?
What changes can I make right away?
What's time critical about this change?
What support do you need to change?
What do I do well that's serving me?
What do I wish to be known for?
How do I get known for this?
How will I know I'm successful?

These questions are certainly not definitive by any means, and you can adapt or change them to suit your needs.

The point here is a shift in thinking. Approaching the feeling of stuck with a different viewpoint.

There is always a way out to something new. The only thing in your way is yourself!

Good luck!

Matt.

Matt Turner is the owner of Seeds Coaching and Career Counselling Vancouver.

He is a Vancouver Life Coach for Professional Women and trained by The Coaches Training Institute.

He specializes working with women in career transition and helps women run their own business.

Life coaching, career coaching or relationship coaching can happen effectively face to face, or over the phone. And technology allows coaching to happen over Skype at zero cost! See how it works here.

Make that call today! Contact Matt for a free, no obligation coaching session and see how you can change your job, change your career and change your life!

See testimonials from women just like you by clicking here.

You are never too old to forgive yourself

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 17 Jan 2014 23:37:00 +0000

I like to go swimming at the pool in my apartment complex. The main purpose of this activity is to exercise and feel good.

However, while going about our daily routine, sometimes something magical happens when we least expect it.

I talked with a 71 year old woman at the pool today. We'd spoken briefly before over the last few months. Lately though we'd shared much about life and health.

Today she told me the story of her 46 year marriage to her husband. It was a heartwarming tale of commitment, courage and tenacity.

She said the most important thing she'd learnt in life was forgiveness. And in particular, forgiving yourself.

This had come to the fore recently for her as she remembered an old flame. This guy was her first love, before she met her current husband.

She'd hurt him over 50 years ago and felt the time was right to tell him she was sorry. She obviously still loved this man and understood how, rightly or wrongly, she'd passed him by.

He was married himself now. This didn't stop her emailing him and telling him she was sorry. Sorry for the way she'd treated him all those years ago. This was also about forgiving herself and letting go of 50 years of regret.

He replied by forgiving her and paying her the biggest compliment he could. In reference to the movie starring Bo Derek and Dudley Moore, he told her she was the only 10 he'd ever met.

Two folks, older now, but still bonded by forgiveness, respect, and most of all...love.

She finished our conversation by saying these words to me: "I never thought I'd tell anybody about this story, and you were the first to ever hear it. I'd like to thank you for listening to me and letting me say it".

It was a pleasure. A pleasure to simply give somebody some space they'd needed to express 50 years of forgiveness. It truly made her, and definitely my, day.

Today, I'd like us all to remember this:

Take some time to think about what you can forgive and move on from. Then forgive somebody you need to, however long it's been waiting.

Best of luck!

Matt.
Seeds Coaching
Vancouver, BC.

Matt Turner is a life coach of creative, professional women in Vancouver, BC. He is trained by The Coaches Training Institute and is an experience relationship counsellor. He specialises working with women in career transition, relationship support for women and helps women run their own business.

Life coaching, career coaching or relationship coaching can happen effectively face to face, or over the phone. And technology allows coaching to happen over Skype at zero cost!

Make that call today! Contact Matt for a free, no obligation coaching session and see how you can change your job, change your career and change your life!

Why do I need a life coach?

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 08 Jan 2014 23:35:00 +0000

I'm often asked this question by people I meet. The answer isn't straightforward.

If your life is going well, you feel in control and you couldn't really be happier, then the answer is you don't.

However, life sometimes isn't like that. Human beings struggle regularly. We struggle with finances, relationships, careers, families, children, emotions, our own internal thoughts and much, much more. The list goes on!

The truth is that as human beings we aren't perfect. We have strengths, we have weaknesses. We have thoughts, we have beliefs. We have habits, we have addictions.

So, how can a life coach help?

I work with professional women in Vancouver, BC and all around the world. We have conversations that are different to everyday talk with our friends, families, co-worker and partners.

A life coach is trained to listen, really listen, to what you are both saying and what you are feeling. A life coach is compassionate, understanding, supportive and creates a spaces where you can feel safe to express your true self in a confidential and liberating manner.

In addition, a good life coach will ask powerful, thought provoking questions at the right time. This is a highly underrated skill, but what it does is transform people. A life coach doesn't give advice, but allows a client to make their own discoveries by challenging them, their thinking and holding them accountable to their actions.

In truth, coaching is a highly skillful job that requires energy, intelligence, compassion and guts.

You might seek support through coaching for career advice, relationship counselling or help running your own business. Many people find the relationship with their coach dynamic, exciting, different and empowering.

At the end of the day, we all need help and support. The trick is to know that and accept it. When somebody is ready to commit to change, then this sacred work called coaching can happen.

However, change is rarely overnight and can make you face your fears and vulnerabilities. Be prepared to invest time into this process. However, should you make the leap into hiring a coach, it could be the best thing you ever do!

Ultimately, you only get once shot at life. Why not make it count?

I offer a free, no obligation life coaching session in order for you to see how it can change your life.

Contact me today, or forward this as a gift to a friend. What really have you got to lose?

Warmly,

Five new ways to make New Year's resolutions (or New Year's revolutions)

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 02 Jan 2014 05:29:00 +0000

By now you've probably already made, and broken, several New Year's resolutions. I'm guessing they are along the lines of "I'm never eating chocolate for as long as I live", or "I'm going to lose 50lbs by February".

There are many problems with resolutions like these. First, they are unrealistic. Second, they are shaming.

We make assumptions every New Year that we need fixing, that there is several things 'wrong' with us. Then we proceed to scold ourselves and our inadequacies. This isn't great for our self-esteem.

Last, we don't really have an intention to meet our perceived goal, and if we do, we go about it in the most extreme way.

For instance, our goal maybe to lose weight. There are many ways to go about this. Some are enjoyable (taking up dancing, going walking outdoors, having more sex). Others aren't (lifting weights in the gym, starving yourself, denying yourself alcohol).

Even the word 'resolution' is daunting. It means to be firm, full of resolve and determined. Hardly fun, especially while nursing a New Year's hangover.

So, this year I'd like to help you all. Here are five new ways to make New Year's resolutions. In fact, I'm not going to call these 'resolutions' because, by their very nature, they are different, fun and radical. With this in mind, I'll call them 'revolutions':

1. Choose more of what's working

Rather than look at what you want to change about yourself, or dislike about yourself, look at what's working for you. Why was last year so good!? What are you doing that's enjoyable, successful and fun? When you've identified what these things are, simply look at how you can maximize them, do them more, and do them better!

2. Start a New Year's Revolution jar

Get a jar and put a label on it that says 'Why 2014 is great!'. Whenever you do something special, have some success (no matter how small), get some luck, have fun, see something beautiful, smile, laugh, enjoy something or somebody, or see something funny, then simply jot it down on a scrap of paper, fold it up and place it in the jar. When December 31st comes around, you'll have a whole heap of things that make you appreciate how awesome you and your life is!

3. Make a list of LESS and MORE

This is simple. Make a list of things you want to do more of in 2014 and things you'd like to do less of. Put this list in a prominent place. Read it every day. Do it every day!

4. Make goals that are fun!

It's OK to want things in life. More importantly, ask yourself this; why do I want them? Set goals that mean something to you, but above all, that are FUN! There's little point in doing something you don't love or enjoy. After all, isn't this the meaning of life?

5. It's not Happy New Year, it's Happy New Day.

Let's face it, New Year's Eve to New Year's Day is simply the transition of one day to another. Nothing really changes significantly in this time. Don't put pressure on yourself that everything must change in 24 hours. Simply see your goals as 365 small steps.

Happy New Year to you all, and the very best of luck!

Warmly,

Matt.

Christmas can really be for giving, and forgiving

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 20 Dec 2013 17:25:00 +0000

This week I learnt the power of perspective.

I was blessed to received a couple of nice gifts for Christmas from my co-workers yesterday. Two books I'd had on my Christmas list for a while now. As a bonus, my boss also sent me a nice wine cork with a handle that resembled a bunch of grapes. Very cute!

I live and work in Vancouver, so public transit is cool to use. It's an outdoors kind of town, so everyone is running, cycling, or if like me you don't take exercise that seriously, taking the bus.

Anyway, I leave work with my lunch bag containing all my new shiny gifts. I get on the next bus and travel into town to get my train connection. It was only when I arrived downtown that I realised I'd left my lunch bag of gifts at the bus stop!

My initial reaction was one of despair. An overreaction admittedly, but a reaction all the same. My perspective was a feeling I'd let down the people who'd loving bought (and shipped) those gifts to me. My next thought was 'how stupid could I be!'. Both of these thoughts are neither useful or self-serving.

I called a co-worker to go check the bus stop to see if my gifts were still there. They weren't.

When I got home I told my wife what had happened. Turns out she'd had a far more eventful and important day than I'd had. It also turned out that she'd actually bought me the very same books for Christmas! So I'd lost and then gained in the space of 2 hours!

When the dust settled, I finally settled on a perspective I'd like to keep. Its is one where I hold no grudge toward the person who took my gifts. They now have two cool books to keep for themselves this Christmas, or to wrap and re-gift to someone else. They may be less fortunate than me and need to sell those books for food, which would be fine by me.

You see, giving doesn't have to be conventional. It can be through a series of unfortunate events the universe throws your way. Maybe I was meant to leave those gifts there? There is a theory that our lives are already mapped out for us from the moment we are born. Maybe this minor event was always going to happen?

The lesson we can all take away is this; what perspective on giving can you see this Christmas? There are many to choose from and we all have that choice. Choice gives us freedom, shifts our state of mind and makes us feel the way we want to feel.

Have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Warmly,

Matt.

It's useful to reflect on your life

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 18 Nov 2013 06:12:00 +0000

A fascinating excercise! What two words would you choose, and why? Share with your friends and see if they have something interesting.

Special offer for discounted life coaching!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 29 Oct 2013 02:47:00 +0000

Hello,

Seeds Coaching has great pleasure in announcing a very special offer!

For a limited time, you can purchase not one, not two, but THREE life coaching sessions for ONLY $29!

Specializing in helping creative, professional women find a career, start their own business or work on relationships, Matt Turner is a highly trained and experienced coach and mentor.

This offer represents a saving of over $392! That's a 92% discount!

Not only that, 20% of all proceeds will be donated to one of our favourite women's charities, Because I Am A Girl.

Seeds Coaching is committed to helping women achieve their dreams, take their place in the world and promote gender equality.

Hurry, this offer is only for a very limited time! Vouchers for this offer are also limited. Take action and change your life today!

Purchase this offer by clicking this link: Seeds Coaching Special Offer!

Best regards,

Matt Turner

CEO Seeds Coaching

Beautiful Rain

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 29 Sep 2013 23:32:00 +0000

"There is no such thing as bad weather. Only the wrong clothes." - Billy Connolly.

Every season has beauty within it. All we have to do is open our eyes.

Autumn brings us technicolor browns, yellows and greens. The smell of wet vegetation and a freshness in the air.

Winter is crisp, pure and raw. Fresh snow and neon lights. The excitement of Christmas, burning fires and mulled wine.

Spring is the dawn of something new. Optimistic and bright in so many ways.

Summer is like a warm blanket, with vitamin D aplenty. The sizzle of a BBQ, the coolness of melting ice cubes.

And then it happens all over again, without fail. Each year we can find something new in every season.

What can you discover about the season today?

Frank Talk - Be More Childlike with Matt Turner 09/16 by Life CoachRadio Network | Spirituality Podcasts

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 17 Sep 2013 06:39:00 +0000

Here is a recording of my recent radio show appearance on 'Frank Talk', hosted by David Frank Gomes.

'Frank Talk' is part of the Blog Talk Radio Network and covers topics that help us lead a meaningful life.

In this episode, I reflect and dissect my recent publication on the Tiny Buddha website (I wrote an article called 'Be More Childlike; Life Can Be Beautiful If You Let It').

You can hear the show here:

Frank Talk- Be More Childlike with Mat Turner 09/16 by Life Coach Radio Network | Spirituality Podcasts

You can read the original article that inspired the show, here:

Be More Childlike; Life Can Be Beautiful If You Let It

Be more childlike; Life can be beautiful if you let it.

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 11 Sep 2013 15:24:00 +0000

I'm proud and pleased to announce I've been published on Tiny Buddha today. Read my article here:

http://tinybuddha.com/blog/be-more-childlike-life-can-be-beautiful/

Free LIVE life coaching webinar for creative, professional women

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 31 Aug 2013 23:05:00 +0000

FREE life coaching webinar by Seeds Coaching

A live demonstration of life coaching for creative, professional women.

FOR NORTH AMERICA:
Tuesday, 17th September 2013 at 7.00PM – 8.00PM Pacific Standard Time (PST)

FOR THE UK & EUROPE:
Thursday, 19th September 2013 at 3.00PM – 4.00PM British Summer Time (BST)

•    Do you want help with your stressful career?
•    Would you like compassionate support for your relationship pain?
•    Could you do with some mentoring in running your business?
•    Would you welcome assistance in fulfilling your artistic and creative dreams?
•    Are you an artistic, professional woman in mid-life?

If the answer to any of the above questions is yes, then you this webinar is for you!

Vancouver life coach, Matt Turner from Seeds Coaching, will provide a FREE online demonstration of life coaching for a group of like-minded women.

During this webinar, you will experience:

•    What life coaching is?
•    How life coaching works?
•    A live demonstration of life coaching in action.
•    How coaching may transform your life!

What to do now?

•    Register for this exciting 60 minute webinar complete the short registration form by clicking on the appropriate link:

For the North American webinar on TUESDAY, 17TH SEPTEMBER AT 7.00PM – 8.00PM PACIFIC STANDARD TIME (PST), click here: http://www.anymeeting.com/PIID=E958DA8080473C

For the UK and Europe webinar on THURSDAY, 19TH SEPTEMBER AT 3.00PM – 4.00PM BRITISH SUMMER TIME (BST), click here: http://www.anymeeting.com/PIID=E958DA8080463A

•    Places are limited to 30 seats. Register early to avoid disappointment!

•    It is strongly advised that you attend the webinar using a desktop or laptop computer, NOT a tablet or Smartphone. Functionality is seriously compromised when using a tablet or Smartphone.

•    You can attend the webinar by telephone, however, there are visuals/slides used during the presentation that enhance the webinar. A computer is recommended if possible.

•    It is necessary to have fully functioning speakers/headphones and a microphone available to you during this webinar. You'll get more benefit if you can listen and talk during the webinar. Please check your speech and audio settings beforehand.

Please note that due to the live nature of this event, a volunteer will be required to step forward and be coached on air! Spontaneity, curiosity, instinct and going with 'what shows up' are keys to good coaching. Who knows what this hour will bring!?

I look forward to meeting you.

Warmly,

Matt Turner
http://www.seedslifecoaching.com/

How you can change the world today

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 09 Aug 2013 19:19:00 +0000

I believe a random act of kindness is infectious, and by sharing a recent experience of mine on this blog, I hope it influences you to share it with others.

I was sat on the train on my way home from work last night, when a young couple opposite me caught my eye. They were having an argument, but at the same time trying not to draw attention to themselves. From what I could make out, the guy was saying some pretty horrible things to his girlfriend.

After around 5 minutes of this, he gave up berating her and closed his eyes to take a nap. She then spent the next few minutes looking into space, tears welling up in her eyes, thinking and reflecting. She then put on some headphones and placed her head in her hands. She kept this pose for the remainder of my journey.

During this time, my heart and head were racing. What should I do!? I felt I had to do something. Somebody was alone, in distress, looking like they needed support.

It's a brave thing to speak out, but I hurriedly scanned through the possible options open to me. Should I confront her boyfriend? Should I console her? Should I mention it to the person sat next to me to garner some opinion? Did they even see it? Or simply, should I do nothing? That's was the easiest option and the one everybody else seemed to choose.

As I approached my train stop, I made my move. I lightly touched the woman's arm to catch her attention. When she lifted her head and opened her reddened eyes, I looked into them and simply said, as lovingly as possible, "Are you OK?"

She smiled, and in a soft thankful voice, said "Yes, thank you".

You see, sometimes that's all somebody needs. To be acknowledged. To be heard. To know, that a random stranger feels their pain. A random act of kindness, however small, makes a big difference.

Today she may reflect on what happened. She may replay the scene and realize what I saw. She may just step outside of herself and notice what's showing up in her relationship. She may just make a change.

When you are out and about today and see an opportunity for a random act of kindness, however small, take it! If we all do it, every day, then the world begins to change.

Please share this with others and let's change the world, one random act of kindness at a time. Thank you.

By Matt Turner
www.seedslifecoaching.com

Life Coach for Creative, Professional Women at Seeds Coaching

Contact me today for a FREE life coaching session.
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Sign up for a FREE webinar demonstration of life coaching LIVE on air!

Frequently Asked Questions

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 29 May 2013 22:03:00 +0000

Q: What is life coaching?

Life coaching is one-on-one process where a trained professional helps people achieve their life goals. This involves the coach skillfully helping people make discoveries around what's holding them back, overcoming fears and making them accountable to action. A good coach doesn't judge people and creates a space where they feel safe.

Coaching asks powerful and thought provoking questions. These questions challenge people into finding new perspectives on issues they face. The awareness a client experiences are trans-formative and allow people to move forward much more quickly in their lives.

Q: How does life coaching work?

Clients usually see a coach in person or speak over the telephone. This may be for reasons of personal preference or geography. Either method is equally effective. The coach will begin with some questions around 'discovery'. They will try to ascertain who the client is, what type of personality they bring to the coaching, how they prefer to be coached and what the story of their life up to this point is. Some coaches ask clients to fill out a questionnaire before their first appointment to capture some of this information.

After discovering what the clients' values, beliefs, fears and issues may be, the coach will work on what the client wants to achieve, what their goals are and what's in the way of these goals happening. Over time, the coach will work with the client on whatever is happening at that time, continually focusing on the work initially carried out in discovery and tackling new topics and issues that may arise. The coach aims to dig deep, evoke transformation and hold the client accountable for their actions whilst maintaining trust, safety and encouragement.

Usually the coaching appointments are every week or every two weeks.

Q: Is life coaching like therapy?

Yes and no. The process of relationship is similar. Coaches have a confidential, trustworthy and compassionate relationship with their clients, much in the same way therapists do. Coaching differs in the sense that it assumes the client to be naturally creative, resourceful and whole. Coaching focuses on the present and future goals and actions, whereas therapy can be more centered around trauma, the past and healing old wounds.

Q: Who can benefit from life coaching?

Anybody who is stuck in an area of their life and feel trapped. If you need help seeing new perspectives or motivating into new areas of your life, then a coach can help. Much in the same way a sports coach get's the best from their players, a life coach aims to get their clients performing to the maximum of their abilities and 'trains' them into new, better and more fulfilling habits.

Q: Who do you coach?

Most coaches specialize in working with certain clients, based on their expertise, experience and preference. I like to work with the following niche of clientele:

• Small Business Coaching for Women

• Mid-life Career Change Coaching for Professional Women

• Relationship Coaching for Women in Mid-Life

• Social Entrepreneur Coaching for Creative Women

• Life Coaching for Female Artists

Q: How much does it cost?

There isn't a standard cost for life coaching and each coach charges based on their training, area of expertise and needs of their clients For instance, an executive coach working with corporate teams may charge a lot more than a coach who specializes in working with single parents.

Some coaches have a sliding scale of pricing and most coaches are prepared to be flexible with the right clients when it comes to fees.

Q: How long does life coaching take to be effective?

Sometimes transformation can take place in the first session. Sometimes it takes days, weeks or months. It depends on the size and scale of change the client wants and personal obstacles in the way. Mostly it depends on how committed the client is. If a coach is committed to the process and relationship, but the client isn't, then progress may be non-existent.

Usually, most coaches recommend a minimum of 3 to 6 months of coaching in order to establish the relationship, get motivated and get momentum.

Matt Turner is a life coach specializing in helping women in mid-life with careers and relationships He is based in Vancouver, BC and coaches clients all around the world. Visit Seeds Coaching for details.

Book a complimentary life coaching session, either in person or over the phone. Contact Seeds Coaching today!

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Why do I need a life coach?

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 21 May 2013 15:47:00 +0000

There are two questions I am often asked. The first is; what made you become a life coach? The second is: what does a life coach do?

In truth, I'd never considered becoming a life coach. I didn't know what one is, or does. If I'm being brutally honest, I'd scoffed at the idea when it was first suggested as possible career by my partner (who's a psychotherapist). I, like many people, saw life coaching as 'faddish' or 'flaky'. It was something that I viewed with skepticism, and, dare I say it, some disdain.

So what changed for me? Well, the encouragement of my partner for a start. She kept telling me life coaching was something she felt I would excel at. Its funny, but when we receive praise or recognition, we go to a place of disbelief and try to find reasons to disagree! I did just that. I told myself that she was crazy, that there is no way I could do this job I had no regard for. Little did I know, but I'd been a coach all my life. I just needed to see it and appreciate it.

Embarking on intensive coach training was a really scary thing for me. It involved opening myself up, talking about things I'd hidden for years. It involved sharing and caring, things I enjoyed doing, but not making a song and dance about. The thing is, coaching makes you appreciate who you are and what you are capable of. It makes you sing from the rooftops about the good things in life, and be comfortable with things that cause us pain. My training took me on a journey that was nothing short of incredible!

So, what does a life coach do? Now I have seen many clients and experienced the process over and over, I can safely say that a life coach is many wonderful things. First and foremost, they are an advocate for everything you do. They support every decision you make and never judge you. They create a private and confidential space where you feel comfortable talking about ANYTHING. They champion your achievements, celebrate your success and comfort you when things are hard. They challenge you to think a different way. They ask you questions you'd never heard before, and certainly never considered! They make you accountable for your life in a way nobody else could. That's because they are your coach, not a friend. The relationship is a professional one steeped in personal connection. That's what makes life coaching special!

Today I am a huge advocate of life coaching and the trans-formative benefits it brings to peoples lives. Everybody can benefit from having a life coach at some point in their lives. I've seen it with my own eyes in the clients I coach every week.

I suppose the best judge of the power a life coach can bring into our lives are the clients themselves. Below is a recent letter I received from a client. Reproduced here with their permission, it sums up what I am in this profession for, namely fulfillment, deep meaning, rich satisfaction, empowerment and human connection. It also answers the question; why do I need a life coach?

"How do you describe appreciation? How do you genuinely praise interpersonal gratitude. Thank You! When it comes to someones kind words, a hug, actually listening, mindful presence and understanding; there are no words to describe the feeling of receiving that from another person.

I'm still working on giving and receiving positive affirmations for myself and others, but I wouldn't even be close to that if it weren't for Matt Turner. I have been sharing my story with him for about the same amount of time it takes to have a baby. A bit of a cliche perhaps but the process Matt has helped me through is similar to recreating myself from my childhood to the present.

It had been a challenging and yes at times difficult journey. I honestly believe I wouldn't be more than"functioning" if it weren't for Matt and his coaching abilities. Matt is knowledgeable and passionate about his craft. He has insight, talent and skill into how to tap into your innermost thoughts, feelings and "triggers" by actively listening and responding in a manner that evokes trust, compassion and understanding.

Matt has a great sense of humor with his British accent and slang. He is such a personable individual you feel like you could tell him your life story and trust him with it. Oh yes, I guess I already have. No regrets. He's amazing! Just the fact that he is willing to be a supportive guide to help me navigate through all my built up "crap" he deserves a medal. Yet, he can be brutally honest when I am being stubborn or resistant to change in an effort to kick-start some progress. Somehow, through it all, that still feels OK, because he does it in such a unique manner that you know he means well and has your best interest at heart, he genuinely cares and it shows; actually it oozes out of him.

I was wary about getting into any type of counselling which is why it took me so many years. That fear subsided the day I met Matt and even though some sessions are intensely emotional, Matt effectively meets the challenge, providing a safe environment for enabling that release and sharing.

If I had known someone like Matt back in my teen years I would have been so much different in the self confidence department. But Hey, then I wouldn't be who I am today. No regrets, just a renewed sense of self and a new lease on life and that is primarily due to my work with Matt Turner. He is authentic, genuine, "the real deal" and I just want to rub his shiny bald head like a good luck charm; cause hes good at what he does, he's charming and I feel so lucky to have met him.

Thanks for being you, Matt."

5 ways to quickly boost your confidence

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 17 May 2013 15:26:00 +0000

They say confidence is everything. If you could bottle confidence it would be worth a fortune! However, the problem with confidence is that it's not constant. It shifts, it flows, it dips and it rises. Its like a river heading to the ocean, sometimes the waters are choppy, sometimes they are smooth and calm.

So how can you keep your confidence levels high? How can you keep your confidence flow more consistent? Here's five confidence boosting tricks to change your life for the better:

1. Check in with your confidence regularly.

One problem with confidence is that we don't pay attention to it. Today, when every hour passes, ask yourself this; how confident am I right now? Grade it on a scale of 1 -10. Write this score down with a short explanation as to why you feel this way. The first step to tackling confidence issues is being aware of your 'confidence flow'. You can try this exercise for one day, one week or one month. Take a look at your results. What do they tell you?

2. Stop and appreciate.

Modern life is busy. However, take time to stop at least once a day and appreciate what you have and who you are. What makes you special? What talents do you have? Why are you loved? What are you grateful for? Just by appreciating what we have, as opposed to what we want, can be a great confidence booster!

3. Ten years ago to the day

Look back at your life 10 years ago to the day. What does it look like? Where were you? Who were you with? What car did you drive? Where did you live? What job did you do? What income did you earn? What was different about your life? Seeing where you are now in life, compared to where you were can give you a clarity you might have missed. Although possessions you own are nice, turn the focus of your attention to more intangible things like happiness, spirituality, wisdom and personal achievements. These are ultimately more fulfilling and you'll be surprised what you have done in a decade!

4. Converse with people close to you

Simply send an email to 10 people you trust and love with the question; what can you count on me to be for you? We rarely ask others deep and meaningful questions. To give people close to us the permission and space to express themselves, in a way they usually don't is incredibly empowering, for you and them. When you get replies to your email, what surprises you? What's great about their response? What can you celebrate?

5. Dream and imagine

These are two qualities we frequently indulge in as children, yet as adults we neglect our inner child. Take time out each day to fantasize about all the good things in life you have, want and desire. Have fun with your ideal life! Think about what's possible for you and how you might make some steps toward it. Be adventurous with your dreams and imagination - let yourself go wild once in a while! Do something that breaks out of your routine or comfort zone each week.

What to do when you are stuck? 5 quick fire strategies to get you unstuck!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 13 May 2013 22:01:00 +0000

One of the most common struggles my clients often face is the feeling of being 'stuck'. What is like to be stuck and what does being stuck actually mean?

Often, the feeling of being stuck can be traced back to a number of things. First, people tend to repeat the same patterns when trying to solve the same problems. If you've always done the the same thing, you'll generally get the same result. It's this revolving door of frustration and despair that can spiral somebody downward and leave them needing help.

Second, people lose confidence in themselves and their abilities. Confidence really is everything. As human beings, every single one of us has the capacity to choose how we feel and act. The confident ones among us choose positive action consistently, despite any setbacks. The less confident we are, the more prone we are to fear and avoiding any decision at all. Does the saying 'putting in your head in the sand' sound familiar? We all have a choice, and not making one is still a choice.

So how do we break the cycle and get unstuck? On a longer term basis, a great idea is to hire a life coach. At Seeds Coaching, I work with people who face this problem regularly. Its a human condition we should be aware of, and actively embrace.

In the short term, you can follow these five simple steps:

1. Ask yourself "Is what I am experiencing reality?"

Often we separate truth from reality and believe our own thoughts. After all, a thought is simply that - a thought. Its our perception and sometimes not real. So the next time you have a thought about
something, ask yourself if that thought is really true or is it simply perceived? Awareness is the first step to change.

2. What's a new perspective and how many can I think of?

Stepping back from an issue and trying to see it through a different lens can sometimes make all the difference. For instance, when somebody doesn't return an email you send out, what's your perspective? Naturally we think that person may be ignoring us. However, other perspectives might be that they are away on holiday, they no longer read that email account, they really want to reply and life has gotten in the way or they simply never received it in the first place! The list of perspectives for any given issue is endless! Which one is true?

3. Challenge all your assumptions!

When you make an assumption about something, question it. An assumption is simply that. Ask yourself, "what am I assuming?" and "why did I assume that?". By challenging our thoughts we begin to get clarity.

4. Be candid with people

Being candid doesn't mean you have to be rude! People are naturally afraid to speak the truth because of the consequences it can bear. However, by asking people outright what they really think of something you've been struggling with, you might just hear something that surprises you! So next time we feel somebody is acting out of whack, get curious about what the reasons could be, and just ask them!

5. Appreciate yourself

We rarely look for the goods things we do and achieve, however small. Just stopping and looking around your garden and appreciating where you live and what it took to get there can help. The daily grind of life encourages to do, and not be. By being more and doing less you'll begin to find happiness in the simple things right on your doorstep!

Matt Turner is a life coach, former school teacher, corporate trainer, school counsellor and stand up comedian. He specializes in career coaching and relationship coaching. Get in touch today for a free sample session and see how your life can change for the better!

Book a complimentary life coaching session, either in person or over the phone. Contact Seeds Coaching today!

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2013 New Year Special Offer!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 04 Jan 2013 01:22:00 +0000

Hello,

My name is Matt Turner and I run my own life coaching practice called Seeds Coaching.

My aims are to help professional people get unstuck in their lives, relationships, careers or jobs and begin living the life they want and deserve.

I love my job because it gives me freedom to work closely and enthusiastically with others. I get great satisfaction from seeing my clients create special and fulfilling lives for themselves and others around them.

Life coaching is sacred work because it transforms people. I am blessed to be an engineer of such positive change.

What can clients expect of me? A comfortable, non-judgmental space where we can talk, explore possibilities, create a vision, face up to and conquer fears, take on challenges and be accountable. We only get one life, why not LIVE IT!?

What do I expect of my clients? All I ask is that you are genuinely committed to change and are prepared to devote time to it. I talk with clients either weekly, bi-weekly or every 10 days, depending on the coaching package we decide upon.

I coach from the heart and with a great sense of humor, energy and playfulness. I’ll listen to you, understand you, support you and walk your journey with you. See what some of my clients have said about me: Seeds Coaching Client Testimonials

Get in touch today and take advantage of the fabulous offer below!

BOOK A MONTHLY PACKAGE OF 4 X 60 MINUTE LIFE COACHING SESSIONS BEFORE JANUARY 31st 2013 AND RECEIVE THEM HALF PRICE!*

Not only that, I offer a FREE, NO OBLIGATION one hour life coaching consultation where we can talk, ask each other questions and experience a life coaching relationship before you buy.

THAT’S 5 HOURS OF PROFESSIONAL LIFE COACHING FOR JUST

$250 CAD!*

This offer only runs until January 31^st 2013 and appointments are limited.

Life coaching can take place equally effectively over the phone, Skype or in person.

Wherever you are in the world, coaching is accessible for you!

KICK START YOUR NEW YEAR AND CREATE A NEW YOU!

Seeds Coaching offer a variety of life coaching, career coaching, relationship coaching, entrepreneur coaching and business coaching packages to suit your needs.

Get in touch today! What have you really got to lose!?

Visit: www.seedslifecoaching.com

Email: seedscoaching@gmail.com

Call: 1-604-307-6050

*Conditions apply

4 simple 5 minute meditations to help you feel better this Christmas!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 05 Dec 2012 23:22:00 +0000

Season’s greetings!

As we approach the Christmas holidays and the New Year in 2013, it can be common for our stress levels to mount. Some of us may have been through a year of life changing circumstances. Conversely, others may have been through a period of getting stuck and desire life change to get unstuck.

Whatever that change may be, a change of career, change of relationship, or even a change of heart (in the metaphorical sense of course!) Christmas should be a time to appreciate our successes (and even our failures!). None of us are perfect and we all require love. This festive season, why not take the opportunity to love yourself? When we love ourselves, we can then love others. What better time of year to give love to those less fortunate?

Did you know that one of the best ways to combat stress and love ourselves is meditation? Meditation teaches us how to be in the present moment. When we are dancing in the now, it is easier to deal with our life circumstances. The mind consistently wants to go to the past and the future, increasing the possibility of stress, depression and anxiety.

Here are some quick, 5 minute meditations from Vancouver MD, Dr. Divi Chandna to keep you in the now. The more that you dance in the now, your mind will be happier and you will feel better!

If you wish to kick start your New Year and receive some FREE life coaching, then contact Seeds Coaching and book a complimentary life coaching session.

Do you like what you've read today? Then sign up for our Seeds Life Coaching Newsletter to receive more useful life tips and tricks on a regular basis.

Life is a journey and we are here to help you make the best of it.

Visit our website for lots more information, useful links and one-on-one personal life coaching to help kick start your 2013!

We are also opening up the floor on all things meaningful to you this festive season. Visit our Twitter and Facebook feeds for daily questions and discussions you can engage with.

Warmly,

Matt Turner
Owner and CEO of Seeds Coaching
Life Coaching, Career Coaching and Relationship Coaching in Vancouver, BC and Worldwide!

Keep your mind open, reserve judgement and change your life!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 06 Nov 2012 01:37:00 +0000

I like to swim in my spare time. I am lucky that there is an indoor pool at my apartment complex, particularly at this time of year when exercising outside is discouraging and the warmth of the indoors is a welcome change of scene.

Yesterday I arrived at the pool to find just one other person there. His name was Len, although I didn't know that at the time.

I'd seen Len before. He never swims, he simply 'bobs' around the pool whilst casting a beady eye on anything before him. Today his beady eye was on me.

When people stare it can be disconcerting, some would say even rude. I like to think people stare for a reason, that reason being they simply crave human connection. However, if you are having a bad day, feeling grumpy, or simply not receptive to changing your thinking, this concept can be hard to comprehend.

Len simply would not take his eyes off me while I sat in the hot tub and he 'bobbed' around in the pool. I would periodically go into the changing rooms to keep the sauna hot, so when I was ready to enter it, the perfect temperature welcomed me. Every time I made this journey to and from the sauna, Len's beady eyes would follow me. It was only when Len stopped 'bobbing' and left the pool that I felt relieved. However, my calling as a coach is to be curious about life and not simply judge. Why does Len stare? What's missing from Len's life?

It was time for my sauna, so I followed Len into the changing rooms. To my surprise, Len was stood in the sauna with the door wide open, getting changed, whilst simultaneously letting out all the heat I'd spent time generating. I kept calm and simply entered the sauna with him, staying curious and trying to reserve judgement.

I am convinced my frame of mind allowed Len to open up and say "I like to change in here because its warm". Len was an older gentleman and I understood. "Its OK" I said. Len then smiled at me and said "My name is Len, whats your name?". "I'm Matt" I replied, following up with "And I'm pleased to meet you".

What followed was a conversation that I enjoyed, and I felt Len welcomed. After he'd changed, and was about to leave, he said "It was lovely to meet you, Matt".

Len had changed my perspective of him and I'd given him what he needed, just for a few minutes, and that was time to be listened to, along with a warm place to change. In fact, during those few moments we'd both changed. Len literally, me spiritually.

When you break it down life is simple. We just make it hard on ourselves. Try to keep your mind open, reserve judgement and change your life - always! Let me know how that works out for you.

Warmly,

Matt Turner
Seeds Coaching

5 things to be when changing career

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 16:17:00 +0000

1. Be true to yourself.
Asking yourself why you want to leave your current career may be straightforward. Discovering why you feel that way is a little harder. Often it means going back to basics, looking honestly at what values you are compromising and what truly satisfies you. Whats it going to take to love your job? What leaves you feeling stuck? Facing your fears and feeling uncomfortable is going to happen, it's part of the process. Be brave and tackle them head on - the rewards far outweigh any short term anxiety. Remember, this voyage of discovery is not just about changing your career, it's about changing your life!

2. Be tenacious.
Changing your career can take time, money and sacrifice. Are you ready for the long haul? Again, being anxious is normal. You're only human after all! A good question to ask yourself at this stage is "What's the long-term cost of not sticking with it?". It's always good to remember why you started this change and appreciate the opportunities you have ahead of you. Getting unstuck from anything - from treacle to life - requires some level of tenacity.

3. Be frank with others.
People will try to hold you back that's for sure. We've all been told things like "Why are you doing that?" or "I could never do that, it's too scary!". All this does is sow seeds of doubt in your mind. Remember, it's not their life, it's yours and you are the one living it. It's good to have a mentor (real or imaginary) at this stage to keep you grounded. Someone who'll be on your side and reserve judgement. A career change coach, for instance.

4. Be kind to yourself
What you are doing takes guts and gumption. Make sure it doesn't become an obsession and take time to relax, reward and revitalize. Appreciating yourself and what you achieve along the way is important. Celebrate every single obstacle you overcome and this consistent level of positivity will soon become a habit!

5. Be bombastic!
Shout from the rooftops how great you are! It's sometimes not easy to be proud of who we are, but do it! Showing confidence in your abilities is half the battle. A great exercise is to look at what your life looked like 10 years ago and see where you are now. You might be surprised, when you break it down, what you've achieved to date.

Matt Turner
Vancouver Life Coach and Owner of Seeds Coaching

Seeds Coaching is based in Vancouver BC but services clients worldwide. Find out how at www.seedslifecoaching.com

We offer a free life coaching session and introductory coaching consultation.

The all new Seeds Coaching Website!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 00:25:00 +0000

Seeds Coaching in Vancouver BC is pleased to announce the re-launch of our brand new website! Our new website has a cleaner, fresher look and and feel with more concise content and a more appealing presentation.

The website is focused on our specialist areas; Career Change Coaching, Business Coaching, Relationship Coaching and Entrepreneur Coaching. At Seeds Coaching, we'd love to hear from you if you are thinking of changing careers, changing jobs and changing your life!

We work with professional people on all sorts of life challenges. Our mission is to help you achieve a new way of living your life purpose that improves relationships, combats limited thinking and challenge long held beliefs.

The great news is you don't have to be in Vancouver BC to benefit from our services. Coaching works just as effectively over the phone or Skype as it does in person. No matter where you are in the world, we'd love to connect with you! So, if you are approaching a mid-life career change, want to love your job again or simply wish for better skills - Seeds Coaching can help!

We work collaboratively, with honesty, integrity and passion for all our clients. Our goals are your goals and we'll help you plant your seeds and watch them grow with you.

Visit Seeds Coaching today at our website www.seedslifecoaching.com and take advantage of a free life coaching session to kick start your new ambitions! We can also be found on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.

We look forward to meeting you and talking to you. Remember, we offer a complimentary life coaching appointment to help you on your journey.

Warmly,

Matt Turner
Vancouver Life Coach and Owner of Seeds Coaching

This statement is false

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 21 Aug 2012 22:31:00 +0000

Our lives are simply how we view them, or are they? This is an interesting question that most of us struggle with at some point in our lives. Perspective and paradox are two concepts that, with some insight, can help us get clarity on certain issues and situations in our daily lives.

Perspective has many definitions (ironically!). The one most pertinent to how we see our world is possibly this; the state of one's ideas, the facts known to one, etc., in having a meaningful interrelationship.

Any given situation can have many perspectives. If you dislike your current job because of your boss, what perspectives can that give you? The easy answer is simply "It's time to move on to a new job with a new boss". However, another perspective might be that your current boss has values that are not in line with yours, which is the real reason you dislike your job. It may even be the case that you begin to notice most people you work with have different values to you. Perhaps its not a new job, but a new career you are looking for! Sometimes looking deeper into ourselves gives us new insights of situations and can engineer a new direction to a more peaceful, content life.

Paradox is more complex. Life is full of contradictions and this can be confusing. Sometimes we see something that can defy logic and begin questioning ourselves and our world around us. We encounter paradox almost daily through our conversations with others. Children can be particularly receptive to paradox because of their inquisitive minds. They believe something to be true only to be told by an adult that something is not. Peoples opinions hold sway with us throughout life. How often have you asked somebody for 'advice' only to be told something you didn't want to hear because it conflicts with a truth you held?

A good coach shouldn't advise you or provide solutions. You have all the answers and by being curious about what is true and what is not, you'll eventually find them. A good coach will skillfully ask you questions that challenge some of your ideas, or at the very least, get you to explore them. In fact, the exploration of our own lives never ends. If we can embrace that concept and believe that solutions are not always necessary, then the game of life is that little bit easier.

Why not call us today and see how we can help you explore the paradoxes and perspectives in your own life? This game of life can be fun sometimes!

Call Seeds Coaching today to take advantage of a FREE life coaching session, either in-person or over the phone.

Click HERE for our website and contact details.

Matt Turner is a trained Co-Active Coach living and working in Vancouver, BC.

Seeds Coaching
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What to do in a crisis

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 30 Jul 2012 20:17:00 +0000

Stories of human emotion, endeavor and competitive struggle contine to come thick and fast at the London 2012 Olympics. None more so than the story of Shin Lam. A South Korean medal prospect in the sport of fencing, Shin was denied a place in the semi-final due to an error in judgement from the officials. Through no fault of her own, Shin was aghast to find the clock add been reset right at the end of her contest with Britta Heidemann, allowing Heidemann the opportunity to score the vital point needed for victory and a place in the final.

What followed was a breakdown of Olympic proportions. It involved a flood of tears and outpouring of emotion during a sit-in protest by Shin, who, as instructed by her coach, remained in the field of play for over an hour.

From a coaching perspective, this triggers the question; what can we do in adversity? This incident was the culmination of 4 years of training, 4 years of blood, sweat and tears in trying to reach a goal on the biggest stage.

Unfortunately adversity and injustice are part of life. Although unfair, it happens. Difficult as it is, one way of overcoming adversity is to try and explore the different perspectives that always exist in any situation. Its useful to remember that situations shift and change constantly. What is happening in the here and now will be different in the ensuing minutes, hours, days and weeks.

In the case of Shin, she probably did the right thing. It allowed the release of natural emotion (always important), it created media interest, which highlighted her plight, and it showed the human element of competition, struggle and endevour. Over the coming days I'll be keen to see how this story unfolds and how Shin's perspective may change.

You can read the full story of Shin Lam here http://www.guardian.co.uk/sport/2012/jul/30/south-korean-fencer-protest-olympic

Contact Seeds Coaching for a FREE perspective coaching session today!

Visit the Seeds Coaching web page.

Go to www.seedslifecoaching.com or click HERE.

A ceremony of openings

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 28 Jul 2012 05:34:00 +0000

Tonights Olympic opening ceremony has attracted rave reviews. As a British citizen living in Canada it reminded me how proud I am of my country. Major events like this inspire people and the feel good factor has a positive effect, especially in times of economic and social hardship.

This got me thinking about the following question; what do we need to feel like this every day? One answer could be an appreciation of what we have as opposed to what we do not. Another could be to simply celebrate who we our and what makes us different and special. This doesn't just apply to my fellow countrymen and women, we can all learn a lesson from London tonight.

After the dust from the Olympic razzamatazz settles, take some time to look at how people felt today, and why. If we can apply that to our lives going forward, then that's a legacy we can be proud of.

For more information, including a FREE life coaching session, wherever you are in the world, visit www.seedslifecoaching.com today by clicking HERE.