I have the best job in the world!
It doesn’t feel like a job to be honest. Ever since I can remember, I’ve been fascinated by human behaviour and how the pieces of life all fit together. Maybe that’s because for a long time, I was trying to figure out where mine went. At 18, I opted out of University and went to work as an Au-Pair in southern France. The beautiful village of Vaison-La-Romaine became my home for a year where my love of children, food, cooking and all things Français began (not in that order). ‘Bye bye!’ big fat salary, ‘Hello!’ part-time Nanny job.
How did I get here?
After a chance meeting with a Life Coach, my eyes were opened and my world was catapulted into the realms of endless possibility. A 2-year stint retraining as a Life Coach and reading every book I could get my hands on, eased me off the corporate treadmill.
My days were happier when I returned to my love of children and it helped pay the bills whilst building up my coaching practice. Later on I furthered my coaching skills and qualified as a Child Coach.
My goal in life is to be the person I wished I’d had growing up
I live and breathe this work. I’m committed to recovering from my own childhood trauma. I make it my priority to be the mentor and guide I wish I’d had growing up. Here are 20 important facts I wish I had known growing up.
As a life-long learner, I constantly read, share and connect with like-minded people. Here is a list of my recommended books which have helped me along the way. I go on self-development courses and spiritual adventures. I have regular therapy / supervisory sessions so I can grow through my work.
Making growing up easier for hundreds of children every day
My training was the very beginning of my journey to becoming the Smiley Coach. 10 years later, I’ve coached hundreds of children to feel better about themselves. They have taught me so much and I’m so grateful for that.
All my work comes through referrals from happy families who have worked with me. Find out more about how I set up my Smiley business in this interview.
I’m a creative at heart – it heals!
Just like the beautiful young souls I work with, my brain is so busy and every day I’m inspired to create. I record all my ideas in an art journal. I’ve written a book, created the Truly Madly Smiley podcast and those beautiful Smiley Thought Cards that are well-loved by children all over the world. Creativity is how I tune into my intuition and that is why you’ll find creativity and story-telling weaved into the rich tapestry of my work.
Amongst the craziness, there’s always something to smile about
I love daily walks by the canal, watching murder mysteries and cooking. I am a true foodie. Sometimes only cheese and biscuits will do. I also love to laugh and play with my friends. After all that is what life is about – LOVE, connection and smiles!
Love
Smiley x
“My daughter really enjoys coaching and describes you as: ‘The lady who takes her worries away!’ Sometimes parents can’t do it on their own. It warms my heart to hear her chatting to you so comfortably and that takes a huge weight off my shoulders.“
“She came out of her session full of giggles and very chatty. We’ve really seen a massive shift in her over the last few months. She still struggles with talking about her feelings at times but the more relaxed and at ease I am, the more confident and happy she is.”