I have worked in Human Resources for over 25 years, and always particularly enjoyed the coaching and mentoring aspects of my role. I've vaguely thought that at some point I would like to pursue a new career as a coach, but the time never seemed to be right.

In early 2008 the company I worked for went into receivership. It was a huge shock as I have worked for them for over 18 years and there was no sign that anything like that was on the horizon. I had a very painful, sleepless three weeks not only trying to adjust myself, but trying to help other staff look towards the future.

But once I'd had time to take stock I realised that this was the opportunity I'd been waiting for, and with a bit of encouragement from my partner I decided to grab it with both hands! I enrolled on Learning Curve's life coaching course, and I honestly haven't looked back since. It's the best decision I could have made. When I first lost my job it felt like a personal disaster but it turned out to be the best thing that could have happened to me. I launched my own coaching practice at the beginning of 2009 and so far things are going really well. Every day is different and what's more I'm my own boss! I feel as if I control of my own future now.