I got an interesting email yesterday. After running a live breakthrough coaching session with few hundred coaches in attendance, one of the attendees sent me some rather "direct" feedback. So I want to share the full exchange with you. Because there's a powerful lesson here about running a coaching business. Here's what she wrote: === Hi Ed, Thanx for this - I appreciate it and was curious to see how you do it. I gotta say... you kinda butchered that session. ;) You hit a deep traumatized part - holding a terrible experience - there is no good intent behind it - it's just the darkness that needs to be witnessed and released. Your insistence with that good intent question only triggered another part, a compensatory one or counteractive (perhaps the mask) coming up with "the right answer" - also frozen, spaced out, if you were to look at her face. You might say... as long as it works. It may have the illusion of working in the moment, but that's why clients (also coaches) end up in years of therapy - and that's why therapy is the recommendation for deep trauma. So unless you're well versed in working with trauma it's a bandaid at best and retraumatizing at worst. I've seen this numerous times. Hope you can recognize it and take it well. It takes a lot to do smth like this live - so I can appreciate that. Also if this was spontaneous - you never know what you might run into with volunteers. You're remarkable at sales and presentations though. Hands down. === Pretty spicy, right? 🌶️ Here's how I responded: *** Thanks so much for your message, NAME. I really appreciate you taking the time to send it to me. And so honest... butchered lol Your inner supervisor came in hot with that one! I respect your high standards though. At the same time, it’s always interesting noticing which parts of us are activated in the witnessing too. I get where you’re coming from. When trauma shows up, it needs space, not interpretation. My approach in that moment came from a place of curiosity and care, not trying to fix, but gently explore.

I've been gone for awhile, but I'm looking forward to digging back in again. I had an imposter syndrome crisis. I'm encouraged and fully believe I am in my calling here.

I'm so excited 🤩 and I take full responsibility for everything in my life.

Day 8 I take responsibility for everything in my life.

Happiness is a journey, not a destination—and sometimes, a little structure can help us find our way. Enter the 30-Day Happiness Challenge: a simple, transformative plan to infuse joy, gratitude, and positivity into your life. Over the next month, this challenge will guide you through small, intentional activities designed to elevate your mood, shift your perspective, and build habits that stick. Why Take the Happiness Challenge? Life’s busyness often blinds us to simple joys, leaving us stressed and disconnected. The 30-Day Happiness Challenge is about pausing and resetting. With just a few minutes each day, you can rewire your brain to focus on the positive, build resilience, and foster deeper connections. Science backs this up—studies show that small acts like practicing gratitude or spending time outdoors can significantly boost overall well-being. The Challenge Breakdown Here’s how the challenge works. Each day has a specific activity focused on one of three pillars: gratitude, mindfulness, and connection. Here are some examples: - Day 1 to 6: Write Down Three Things You’re Grateful For. Gratitude helps you focus on abundance rather than lack. Starting your day with a positive note can set the tone for a happier mindset. - Day 7 to 14: Take a 15-Minute Walk in Nature Being outdoors reduces stress and improves mental clarity. Disconnect from your phone and reconnect with the natural world. - Day 15 to 19: Send a Kind Message to Someone You Appreciate Strengthen relationships by expressing gratitude or simply saying, “I’m thinking of you.” - Day 20 to 29: Meditate for 10 Minutes Mindfulness can calm racing thoughts and improve focus. Use a guided meditation app if you’re new to the practice. - Day 30: Reflect on Your Progress Take time to review your experience. Celebrate the habits you’ve built and plan how to sustain them moving forward. Tips for Success 1. Keep It Simple: Most activities take 5–15 minutes. Make them a non-negotiable part of your day. 2. Track Your Journey: Use a journal or a calendar to check off daily tasks and note how you feel afterward.