Is It Too Late to Change Direction?
Hello, I’m Diane,
During major life transitions, you might be asking yourself: Is it too late to change direction, or is it finally time to chase a dream?
I work with individuals who struggle with the concept of retirement – people who find themselves at a crossroads between who they were and who they are becoming. A common question I hear is: How do I retire and still feel relevant? Behind that question is usually something deeper – an underlying sense that life no longer feels as aligned or fulfilling.
It often begins subtly. Enthusiasm fades, priorities shift, and over time, what once felt purposeful starts to feel less relevant and unrewarding. It’s not uncommon to feel drawn toward something more authentic – something that speaks more directly to the heart.
Yet, this experience is of course not limited to retirement. Many people, regardless of age or life circumstances, ask similar questions. How can I feel more connected to who I am? How can I get past this fear of change? Am I capable enough? Am I good enough? The good news is “the answers are already within you”.
My Turning Point
Just prior to retiring from a long and successful career in corporate leadership, I realized I felt happiest when I had the freedom to make deeper connections. That realization became a turning point, an “aha” moment that led me to coaching, a path that allowed me to support others in a way that felt both natural and deeply fulfilling. Seeing someone light up with clarity, renewed inspiration, and a deeper sense of possibility is the reason I’m passionate about what I do.
The Heart Behind My Coaching
My decision to walk this path was grounded not only in professional experience, but in life experience as well. As mother to five adult children, and grandmother or “Yia Yia” to eight grandchildren, I’ve spent a lifetime encouraging growth, loving unconditionally, and offering support through life’s many transitions.
Witnessing their journeys has shaped the intuitive and compassionate way I connect with people today.
Growing up surrounded by Greek traditions and amazing food taught me early on that love, compassion, encouragement and connection are at the center of how we support one another.
My Coaching Style
In addition to my life experience, I integrate the methods and training I received through iPEC (the Institute of Professional Excellence in Coaching) and my Energy Leadership Index (ELI) certification. The philosophy behind these coaching frameworks aligns naturally with the way I support people.
My coaching approach is grounded in kindness, curiosity and genuine compassion. Through guided conversation and reflection that often leads to deeper self-awareness, I help you uncover obstacles that may be holding you back so that you can move forward with greater clarity, confidence and purpose.
I believe one of the most important aspects of coaching is the connection between coach and client. My role as a coach is to help you uncover answers by listening and observing to every form of expression. A shift in tone, a smile or change in posture can provide insights that will help me help you uncover truths that can create opportunities for exploration.
Let’s Explore What’s Next
If you’re ready to explore what’s next, I invite you to schedule a 30-minute introductory conversation.
Together, we can begin to uncover what a more meaningful and fulfilling next chapter could look like for you.
I look forward to the opportunity to work with you.
Warmly,
Diane Sawyer, Life Coach
My Inspiration
"I dream of painting and then I paint my dream" Vincent van Gogh
In June 2008, I embarked on a trip to attend a week-long retreat of self reflection. Little did I know that this experience would eventually change the course of my life.
The main theme was designed to immerse participants into a guided week of self-discovery. Some of the techniques used to identify and confront negative behaviors believed to have been formed from our childhood, were a little outside my comfort level. However, I was curious and determined to return with some degree of enlightenment.
On the third or fourth day the unexpected happened. We were sitting in a circle about to start a guided meditation. While we were positioning ourselves, we were asked to close our eyes and take deep breaths as we cleared our minds of any noise. The purpose of this particular meditation was to connect with our spirit guide who would lead us to our sanctuary. The distraction of doubt crept in at the mere suggestion of a spirit guide, but then as I allowed the facilitator’s voice to enter my subconscious, something extraordinary happened. We were asked to envision ourselves walking up a spiral staircase. We were told that when we reached the top there would be a door leading to our sanctuary. As I turned the knob and opened the door a sudden puff of warm air brushed against my face. I opened my eyes and gazed onto a vivid scene of tall green blades of grass swaying in the wind. In the distance was a meadow of wildflowers bringing life to the base of tall rock formations with layers of texture, color and depth looking down onto a deep blue sea. Shimmering sunlit leaves hanging from a tree looking strong and majestic beckoned me to shift my gaze toward the field. As I turned direction, I saw an image of myself as a little girl calling me out to play.
Upon reflection, I realized that when we allow ourselves to vividly experience our dreams with all our senses without all the chatter in our heads, the answers become brilliantly clear.
The painting, which I have entitled “My Sanctuary”, was inspired by that powerful moment in my life.
Contact me
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