Finding Clarity (Even When It Scares You)
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
Every week, clients come to me seeking clarity.
Whether that's a 5-year vision or just getting through the next month in one piece. It's one of the most human things: wanting to know which way to go.
What I think makes me an effective coach is that I'm on this journey too.
My path isn't your path — but as a fellow traveller, I know how hard it is to navigate life with clarity and alignment.
This month, I made a big decision. I gained clarity, and I feel both exhilarated and scared.
In February, I started a Masters of Counselling. In March, I quit. Both decisions gave me more clarity about who I am and what I actually want.
What helped me get there?
My people.
I'm choosy about who I let speak into my decisions — a handful of experienced professionals and close companions who know and love me. This time, it was my husband who said, "You should quit that course." I knew immediately he'd named something true I'd been thinking myself.
Who are your people? Do you have 4–6 voices you trust?
Courage over embarrassment.
Quitting felt slightly unnerving — I help others find their way forward, is it okay to course correct? Yes. It takes courage to try something and courage to stop.
What helps you choose brave when a decision is hard?
Knowing what matters most.
I believe in alignment — living in a way that's true to you. When faced with choices, I have north stars I return to.
Do you know yours? Your values, your strengths — what helps you find self-awareness?
Why did I quit?
Because I love coaching people when the dirt isn't piled too high.
I think of every person as a gem — brilliant, unique, valuable just as they are. Life piles dirt on all of us. Some people need a counsellor to help shift the heavy load. I'm deeply grateful those people exist. But I'm built for coaching — helping people when they can sense the stress building and want to live more aligned before it becomes overwhelming.
And becasue I believe that living aligned matters and it's what leads to thriving.
I don't need to be someone I'm not. I want to be the best version of who I am, and I want to thrive.
So I move into 2026 getting re-aligned — rethinking my yeses and nos, returning to what gives me energy, excellence and ease. I'm both exhilarated and scared. I know what that feels like.
And if you want a guide who's also a traveller — I'd love to help.
Three things I know to be true right now:
Clarity can come through doing, not just thinking — sometimes you have to try something to know it's not right.
You cannot find your way alone — the right voices around you make all the difference.
Alignment isn't a destination. It's a daily choice to live true to who you actually are.
About the author Hi I'm Lacey, a CliftonStrengths coach based in New Zealand who's passionate about helping managers and teams thrive, not just survive. I'm also a creative introvert, wife, mum and an avid fan of both exercise and doughnuts! If you're keen to begin or continue your CliftonStrengths journey, drop me a line or book a free chat
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