For 15 years, I had a successful career in Information Technology (IT), so leaving it was really difficult! I made a huge investment in that career, including many long hours, working evenings and weekends to get systems up & running for clients. While I liked the challenge of IT, and the thrill of learning new technologies, I was constantly disengaging from my work, continually looking for a new career challenge.
I was promoted to manage a team when I was quite young, after only 3 years of full-time experience in IT. I made some huge mistakes at first, especially since I was promoted to management without sufficient training or mentoring to help guide the way. I learned that being a leader of people is far more complex than managing technology! I eventually engaged in dozens of leadership, management and communication courses, and progressed for another 10 years as a manager in IT.
As a manager, the fulfilling part for me was helping people develop and grow in their careers. But most of my job felt like being stuck in endless back-to-back meetings -- day in, day out -- that weren’t important or produced meaningful results. Corporate life wasn’t for me. I was angry at the demands placed on me and how much of my life I had given up for my work. I lost my balance in life, and my health. It wasn’t worth it. I felt stuck.
Being in a job that wasn’t a fit had a negative impact on all other areas of my life. I took every opportunity to escape, from getting out every day at lunch, to taking on every learning and development opportunity I could, to working from home. I distinctly remember working at home one day, imagining how I could be free from corporate life. I wondered “How can I create a fulfilling career where I will feel engaged, and contribute by helping people develop and grow in their careers?”
I’ve created this career for myself. I figured out how to leverage the skills and experience I gained in my IT career, especially in the areas of people leadership, team building, and career development. I capitalized on my passion for sailing, and created an exciting Corporate Team building and Engagement program.
Wouldn’t you love a career where you’re fully engaged too--with a sense of meaning, of purpose, and work-life balance?
If what you read here resonates with you, call me at 613.327.4949 or e-mail Sylvia@SylviaGoodeve.com for a brief consultation to discuss how to engage with me as your coach.
Core Beliefs:
◦ Aligning how you live your life with your values are keys to your success, happiness, and fulfillment.
◦ Focusing on your strengths is more effective than putting a lot of effort towards shoring up your weaknesses.
Approach to Coaching
My coaching is completely focused on you, my client. I’ll give you a confidential coaching space where we can share your challenges and get to the heart of your issues swiftly. I listen. I share what is helpful for you in the moment. No fluff. I’ll give it to you straight, and help you see what you have trouble seeing for yourself. Together, we’ll create concrete strategies that you can use immediately.
Qualifications
Prior to embarking on a career in coaching in 2005, I worked in the Information Technology (IT) field for 15 years. I attained a Bachelor of Mathematics, in Computer Science, from University of Waterloo. My IT career encompassed work in high-tech (OmniMark Technologies), telecommunications (Stentor), financial services (MD Management), crown corporations (EDC), and management consulting (Deloitte and Touche).
I graduated from Coach U and I hold a Professional Certified Coach (PCC) designation through the International Coach Federation. I am also a Competent Toastmaster (CTM), and a member of the Canadian Society for Training and Development (CSTD).
Life Interests
Being in nature brings me to life. I enjoy hiking and snowshoeing in nearby hills and forests; cycling and rollerblading along the rivers and canals. Sailing is my passion and I race a C&C27 keelboat as the skipper of an all-women’s sailing team. My creative outlets include playing the piano together with other musicians. I’m also a volunteer instructor with the Taoist Tai Chi Society of Canada.
Call me at 613.327.4949 or e-mail Sylvia@SylviaGoodeve.com for a brief consultation to discuss how investing in coaching will benefit you.