Kids are finally back in school, and now many women are asking, "What's next?" The long pandemic pause has led many people to reassess priorities and careers, and now is the perfect time to hire a life coach to help identify ways to tap into your purpose and pursue a life of meaning and joy. Anne Pillsbury, one of TheWMarketplace's founding service providers, gives a bit of insight into how she came to become a coach herself.

What motivated or inspired you to start your own business?

I deeply believe in the power of coaching. In my 30's I worked with a few amazing coaches, so, after the birth of my 4th child, when I started thinking about what's next, I had this epiphany that I wanted to be a coach. I signed up for an ICF-certified program the next day having no idea what a life changing experience it would be. It lit a fire under me to be able to help other women experience similar transformation in their own lives. I have a natural ability to see the potential in people, deep curiosity and an uncanny ability to connect. I champion, challenge, and empower women to be their best selves and take action that moves them forward.

Have you had to overcome any significant barriers in business or in life, and how did you manage to conquer them?

My husband and I have fought our way back from a cycle of addiction and co-dependence that almost destroyed our marriage, our family and caused tremendous financial strain. This was a forcing factor in me returning to full-time corporate work after a 16 year break devoted to raising our four kids. They were dark times, but being on the other side I feel an immense sense of pride and gratitude for coming out on the other side stronger, clearer, more confident and amazed at what I can accomplish and create when I listen to my wisdom and take the next right step. When I boil it down to the secret sauce for navigating these difficult times it came down to staying connected and grounded in myself, having immense courage to prioritize my needs and hold boundaries and connecting with amazing women who were like my angels, not only believing in me but providing me opportunities where I could learn and grow.

What motivates you or gives you joy in life or in business? Is there a person who has inspired you?

Nothing gives me greater joy than witnessing my clients step into their potential. It is an honor and a privilege to help them re-connect to themselves, claim their feminine power, and create a thriving, joyful life of meaning and impact.

What is the one word that describes you the best, and why?

My husband calls me Sparkles and over my lifetime people have said that I sparkle, and I recognize this because I saw it in my grandmother. I get a twinkle in my eye, an infectious excitement when I experience moments of joy in life- like having my kids all home, enjoying an amazing meal in an expensive restaurant, experiencing the beauty and wonder of the mountains. I can feel the flutter in my heart and it shines right out my green eyes like I'm four years old waiting for my birthday party to start.

What is one piece of advice you wish you had heard, and listened to - in life or in business?

Trust yourself.

>> Interested in finding your purpose and/or overcoming barriers to your success and happiness? Anne Pillsbury is offering a free 30-minute Midlife Redesign Discovery Call.