Do Self-Help Gurus Struggle Too? Here’s Why the Right Coach Will Be Honest About It

I was on my treadmill when the weight of the last two days caught up with me. My mind was restless, my energy drained, and I could feel the familiar tug of self-doubt creeping in. I teach professional women and entrepreneurs how to overcome overwhelm and burnout—yet here I was, caught in my own mental storm.

A voice in my head whispered: “Am I a bad coach because I’m struggling myself? How can I effectively help others when I can’t keep my own limiting beliefs at bay?”

But then, I took a step back. I practiced what I teach. I worked through my own MindFlow Cycle program concepts, identifying the thought patterns that were pulling me down and shifting my perspective. Slowly, the anxiety faded. The tension eased. And I was reminded of something powerful:

I’m not perfect. I’m human.

If a coach tells you they never struggle, they’re not being honest. Growth isn’t about avoiding difficult moments—it’s about having the tools to move through them. And the best coaches? They aren’t the ones pretending to be flawless. They’re the ones who have faced their own challenges, done the work, and emerged stronger.

So, how do you find a coach who truly understands you? Someone who doesn’t just give advice but lives the process of transformation? Here are five steps to finding a coaching program that will help you live the life you desire:

1. Look for a Coach Who Has Walked Your Path

The best coaches don’t just talk the talk—they’ve lived it. Whether you’re juggling a business and family, struggling with work-life balance, or feeling trapped in cycles of stress, you need a coach who has been there and worked through it. Ask yourself:

• Does this coach understand the specific challenges I face as a working professional, or as the head of the household?
• Have they overcome similar struggles themselves?
• Can they relate to the emotional and logistical demands of my daily life?

Real transformation happens when you work with someone who truly gets it—because they’ve navigated it themselves.

2. Find a Coaching Approach That Fits Your Needs

Coaching isn’t one-size-fits-all. Some programs focus on mindset shifts, others on time management, and some blend various techniques. Think about what you need most:

• Do you struggle with limiting beliefs and need mindset coaching?
• Are you looking for strategies to optimize your schedule and reclaim time?
• Do you need accountability and a structured framework to follow?

For example, in my MindFlow Cycle program, I provide the male supervisor point of view for women and help them identify and break free from patterns of overwhelm by integrating mindset work with actionable strategies. Whatever coaching program you choose, make sure it aligns with your goals and learning style.

3. Assess Their Track Record and Client Results

A great coach has a history of helping others achieve tangible results. Look for:

• Testimonials and success stories from clients in similar situations.
• Case studies that demonstrate real-life transformations.
• A clear, structured coaching process that has worked for others.

If a coach can’t provide examples of how their methods have made a real impact, that’s a red flag. You want to invest in a program that has proven success in helping people like you.

4. Make Sure There’s a Personal Connection

You don’t just need a coach—you need the right coach. The one who resonates with you, makes you feel seen, and can hold space for your unique journey. When considering a coach:

• Listen to their podcasts, watch their videos, or read their posts. Do they speak to your struggles?
• Book a discovery call. How do you feel after talking with them?
• Do you feel safe being vulnerable with them? Do they truly listen and understand?

A great coaching relationship is built on trust and connection. If something feels off, keep looking.

5. Choose a Coach Who Empowers You—Not One Who Promises a Quick Fix

Real change doesn’t happen overnight. Be wary of any coach promising instant results or a magical formula for success. Instead, look for someone who:

• Gives you tools and frameworks that create long-term transformation.
• Helps you build resilience, so you can handle future challenges on your own.
• Encourages self-awareness and personal growth beyond just “checking the boxes.”

A great coach doesn’t fix you—they guide you to discover your own strength.

Final Thoughts: You Deserve a Coach Who Gets It

Finding the right coach is an investment in your future. If you’re a professional woman or minority struggling to balance it all—your career, your family, your own well-being—you don’t have to do it alone. The right coaching program will give you the mindset shifts, strategies, and support you need to thrive.

And if you ever doubt whether a coach has bad days too? Just remember: the best ones do. Because they know exactly what it takes to rise from them—and they’re ready to help you do the same.

Are you looking for a coaching program designed for ambitious women who want to create more time, freedom, and fulfillment in their lives? Let’s connect! Drop a comment or send me a message to learn more about the MindFlow Cycle program and how it can help you achieve more while doing less.

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