Have you ever been told, “You’ll never accomplish that”?  Have work colleagues ever said, “You don’t need to work so hard, you’re showing us up!”  Have you ever had anyone try to destroy your dream? 

Many years ago, I answered YES to all three questions.  I allowed people to control my future, my path, and my dream all because I lacked the courage and the confidence I needed to stand up for myself. 

In 1999 I was working as an executive secretary in one of London’s prestigious utility companies and was trying to find a way to advance my career into management.  It was proving difficult because of the perception managers had of the secretarial role. The one thing that was holding me back was my ability and courage to speak effectively and confidently not only at work but everywhere!   I knew I had to change from being this shy timid secretary who followed others, to a stronger more confident leader who people wanted to hear and listen to when she spoke.  Walking through the door of that speakers’ club was one of the hardest things I ever did – but it has also been one of the most rewarding. 

Fast forward . . . after an amazing personal growth in my corporate career and many promotions it was time for me to take an even bigger step of courage and confidence.  In May 2009 I became the Founding Director of Dukes Consultancy – ‘Helping you Be Heard, Understood and Remembered’.  My own boss! Who would have ever imagined that?

I hear you ask, “So, what made the difference? How is it that this previously shy timid secretary now runs her own company helping others overcome their obstacles of confidence?”  Well I’ll tell you!  In order to change I knew I needed to work with someone who not only believed in my abilities and potential but who also wanted to help me unleash them and make them real.  This just happened to be my boss who took me under his wing and guided me through the pitfalls of promotion.  It took 18 months of coaching and a lot of hard work but we finally broke the perception of my previous secretarial persona, built my confidence and self-belief to a new level, and gained acceptance by my peers. - He helped me be heard, understood and remembered.  We are still in touch today!

It’s a powerful step working with people who have gone through what you are facing and who are willing to help you realise your potential.

• Look at people who have accomplished what you are aiming for.

• Look for resources that help you reach your goals.

• Identify a coach who is willing to help you on your journey.

• Set your goals and act - start making them a reality.

My journey of courage and confidence has taken me down many different roads which gave me back control.  There were some that I never thought I could ever go down and others I am very honoured to have been asked to travel.

The first step is the hardest but as soon as you take it you will never look back. 

By taking this step with me

1. You will learn to overcome your fears and gain a sense of courage.

2. You will stop feeling overwhelmed when asked to speak – instead you will be equipped with the tools to say YES with confidence.

3. Working with me you will learn how to connect with your audience which will leave them wanting to hear more.

Are you ready to be in control? Are you ready to take that step now?