What I Believe About Leaders
Most leaders didn’t get promoted because they knew themselves. They got promoted because they were exceptional individual contributors — and culture told them that the next title was the next proof of their worth. So they said yes. And then they walked into a role that required something nobody prepared them for — leading other human beings through ambiguity, pressure, and constant change.
No wonder the same themes show up in my coaching room day after day. Imposter syndrome. The need to be liked. Inability to set boundaries. Communication that lands differently than intended. The exhausting performance of confidence they don’t always feel. These aren’t skill problems. They’re identity problems. And they have roots that we often need to dig up.
How I Coach
I coach privately (virtually and in-person) and with several online world-class coaching companies. As a private client, you gain a customized coaching package that focuses on your growth areas, learning style, and desired coaching frequency and accountability.
Most clients come to me wanting to work on their do — their performance, their presence, their impact. What they don’t expect is that we’ll end up working on their who. Because our doing is inseparable from our mental story. The beliefs lodged in our subconscious — often formed long before we had a title, a team, or a corner office — are quietly running the show. Shaping every decision. Driving every reaction. Capping every ambition. Beliefs that likely need to expand for you to be the leader you need to become.
My job is to make it safe to look at those beliefs honestly. I bring my whole self into the room — including my own work on the terrain my clients are navigating. That means you get a thought partner who understands the territory from the inside. What you won’t get is someone who robs you of your dignity or your potential power. Ever.
My Background
I came to coaching through a crack in my own world. COVID stripped away the illusion of control. In that quiet, uncomfortable space I discovered the only territory I truly owned — my beliefs, my habits, my choices. That realization became the foundation of everything I do with clients.
Before coaching I spent 20+ years as a writer, editor, and author. My most surprising credit: a children’s picture book that has sold 50,000+ copies and been adapted into a musical by a Chicago children’s theater. That background gave me something that quietly shapes every session — the ability to hear what people are really saying underneath the words they choose.
Clients are often startled by what I notice. And call out. Not because I’m looking for problems. Because I’m genuinely listening for their whole person.The goal of coaching is consistent, forward action. I have found that many of my clients choose to partner with a therapist and life coach at the same time, for mental healthiness AND forward movement. If you’re stuck in an emotional wound, I encourage you to start with therapy.
My Credentials
I hold the PCC (Professional Certified Coach) credential with the International Coaching Federation (ICF) — representing 500+ hours of required coaching and assessment. I’m approaching 1,000 hours of paid client coaching experience across corporate, legal, healthcare, financial services, and nonprofit environments. I am committed to coaching mastery; to be your highly effective partner.
Let's Chat
I am worth your time and your investment. Not because I’m perfect. Because I’m intuitive, authentic, present, and fully your partner. If you’re ready to stop performing leadership and start owning it, click below to schedule your Clarity Call. Let’s find out what’s possible.
Clients have said, “I feel safe to be myself with you.” … “You have a way of hearing what I’m saying — and not saying” … “You’re direct — but with cookies and milk.” That’s not an accident. I create the “safe” container needed for authentic exploration and growth. Then we do it together. I am 1000% for you.
"Hard questions asked and answered, a lot of serious introspection, a commitment to change and I feel transformed. Coaching with you has produced terrific insights!"
Sheri A. Bell, Strategic Influence & Leadership Coach
ICF-Certified (PCC) | 900+ Hours
Sheri@SheriBellCoach.com