My story
For most of my career I have worked as a Human Factors (HF) Consultant, which often feels like being a professional overthinker. I was trained to analyse how people interact with systems, identify risks and opportunity for human failure, and think through all possible scenarios. Sounds ideal for someone whose brain doesn't have an off switch.
​
When I hit the "what next" moment in my career, I did what overthinkers do best: I tried to think my way to certainty. Months of analysis, weighing up options, worrying about the future. None of it really helped though.
​
I eventually realised I couldn't analyse my way out of uncertainty and that I hade to take action. So I did. And then I trained to help other people do the same.
Yes, there's more..
I started my self-employed journey at the start of 2000 and founded GU6ix later that year. My first year as a solo HF professional was energising. I was thriving, confident, and full of momentum. ​But the following year, something shifted.
"Suddenly, I was overthinking everything, even my ability to do the job I'd done for 16 years"
Self-doubt crept in. I began to feel disconnected from my work and overwhelmed by the sense that something was missing. Eventually, I realised I couldn't figure it out alone and that's when I turned to coaching.
"Coaching helped me find what was missing"
Through coaching I re-discovered my values and uncovered a deeper truth: the part of my work that had always brought me the most joy was supporting others' growth. That had been the part of my previous role that made my heart smile.
So I trained with Barefoot Coaching and qualified as a personal and business coach. Now, alongside my HF work, I offer coaching that helps others reconnect with their values, and make meaningful life and career moves even, despite overthinking it all.
"I'm still a work in progress; who isn't?"
I've realised that coaching isn't about changing who you are. It's about embracing your whole self - strengths, quirks and all. It's about noticing the inner chatter and learning to determine when it's both helpful and unhelpful and to respond with kindness and courage. Discovering Acceptance and Commitment Coaching (ACC) changed everything for me, and has led to a healthier, happier, and more harmonious heart and mind. And that's what I offer to others through GU6ix.
Get to know me...
I would highly recommend the GU6ix coaching process to anyone looking for insight and progress in their own work journey, and can't think of anyone better than Shona to help you on that journey!
ALICE, SELF-EMPLOYED BUSINESS OWNER