Esther Murray is one of the coaches that we found this month and we did a little interview with her. She impressed us with her strength of character and bravery.

She is a Certified Life and Career Coach and #1 best selling author. Her specialty is empowering ambitious women in corporate environments to discover new career paths. Her journey is one of resilience, discovery, and transformation. From the bustling streets of Tobago to the vibrant world of NYC, she faced many challenges that forged her wisdom. With over 26 years of experience in the government sector, her leadership and communication skills were well honed, but it wasn’t until the height of the pandemic that a new calling emerged.

She was inspired by a virtual event hosted by Tony Robbins. After attending, she discovered and embraced the power of coaching. She gained certification and dedicated herself to helping others unlock their potential. What sets her apart is a unique approach, blending empathy, personal experience, and innovation to create a tailored and holistic coaching experience.

Her methods foster both personal and professional growth, encouraging clients to develop resilience, emotional intelligence, and a sense of community engagement. With a deep understanding of overcoming challenges, she is passionate about empowering individuals to take bold steps toward meaningful change. Here is what she said.

Meet Life Coach Esther Murray:

Name: Esther Murray

Pillar: The Mind, The Heart

Who is this coach for: Ambitious women in corporate environment who want to discover new career paths, gain better self awareness, discover their strengths, and improve their emotional intelligence.

How they can help: By using various tools and techniques like self assessments, active listening and open communication, just to name a few.

First of all, how are you and your family doing after these Pandemic times?

Well, like everyone else, we are holding on and even thriving in many ways, though it hasn’t been without its challenges.

During the height of the pandemic, I lost my father, and I still feel like I haven’t had the time to fully grieve.

However, my family has become closer than ever, and we make it a point to check in regularly, even though we’re scattered across the globe.

We find comfort in supporting each other through these tough times.

Thanks for asking.

How did the coronavirus pandemic affect your clients? Did it affect you at all?

During the coronavirus pandemic, I witnessed firsthand the profound impact it had on my clients, who were grappling with a myriad of emotions, from grief and anxiety to isolation and uncertainty.

Everyone was navigating their unique challenges, and it became clear to me that many needed not just professional guidance, but also emotional support and connection.

Throughout this time, I made it a priority to reach out with frequent check ins, offering a listening ear and a compassionate presence.

For example, I initiated weekly virtual meetings where clients could share their feelings and experiences in a safe space.

I also sent personalized messages or resources tailored to their specific struggles, such as coping strategies for stress or mindfulness techniques, all designed to help them feel less alone.

As a result, many of my clients expressed that they felt truly seen and valued during such a difficult period.

Our relationships deepened, and I became a true friend and trusted confidant to some, which allowed me to understand their problems on a more profound level.

This experience not only solidified our connections but also shifted my own understanding of my role as a coach, I realized the importance of being adaptable and responsive to the emotional needs of my clients.

On a personal level, I was also affected by the pandemic.

I faced my own challenges of isolation and uncertainty, which motivated me to reflect on my values and the way I provide support.

It became clear that my purpose was not just to coach individuals through their professional goals but also to empower them emotionally during trying times.

This realization has strengthened my commitment to serving my clients and has made me more resilient and compassionate both in my work and my personal life.

In essence, the pandemic taught me the power of human connection and the importance of being present for those in need.

What are the biggest lessons that you learned in this pandemic?

During the pandemic, I learned several important lessons that have profoundly shaped my perspective on life.

Firstly, I came to understand the true meaning of gratitude.

The fragility of life became strikingly clear, as the saying goes:

“Life is like a ‘vapor’, one moment we’re here, and in the blink of an eye, we may not be.”

My father’s passing, whom I lost while he lived miles away in Tobago, underscored this reality.

I was fortunate to have that final conversation with him, which has motivated me to reach out to others I’ve been meaning to connect with but have put off for too long.

Secondly, I’ve learned to appreciate the blessings life provides.

This experience has humbled me, making me more caring and encouraging me to be a blessing to those around me.

I’ve started to re engage with friends and loved ones, cherishing every moment we have together.

In conclusion, these lessons of gratitude, the transient nature of life, and the importance of connection not only transformed my personal outlook but also inspired me to live with intention and compassion moving forward.

The Origin:

Tell us about you, your career, how you started with your coaching career?

Born in Tobago, I moved to the US for opportunities that would help me grow personally and professionally.

For over 26 years, I’ve worked in the government sector, where I gained valuable experience in leadership, communication, and community engagement.

It was during the height of the pandemic, when we were all sent home to work remotely, that I found a new calling in coaching.

While surfing the web one day, I stumbled upon a virtual event by Tony Robbins.

Intrigued by his approach to personal development, I decided to participate.

The experience was transformative, it revealed to me the power of coaching and its ability to inspire change in others.

Since then, I have pursued certification in coaching and have started working with individuals to help them achieve their personal and professional goals.

I am passionate about empowering others to unlock their potential and navigate challenges.

My aim is to blend my extensive experience in government with my newfound coaching skills to create a supportive environment for growth.

I’m excited about continuing in this direction and impacting the lives of those I work with.

What was your biggest obstacle that you had to overcome in your life that made you who you are today?

Gosh, I left Tobago to come to NYC not knowing what fate awaited me.

Navigating this new environment was a challenge, I remember feeling overwhelmed in the bustling streets, struggling to find my place.

However, through those moments of uncertainty, I discovered an inner strength and courage I didn’t know I had.

I had to learn to stand on my own two feet, make new connections, and adapt quickly.

Taking this chance taught me that sometimes, we must step into the unknown to truly understand what we’re made of.

This experience not only instilled a sense of resilience in me but also shaped my belief in the power of perseverance.

Today, I approach new challenges with confidence, knowing that I can overcome obstacles and grow from them.

The Coaching Style:

How do you innovate with coaching your clients?

I strive to create a memorable experience for my clients by tailoring my coaching to their unique needs, whether in one on one sessions or group settings.

For individual coaching, I utilize personalized assessments and goal setting frameworks to ensure we’re addressing specific challenges and aspirations.

In group coaching, I focus on building a supportive community where members can share their journeys, learn from one another, and inspire each other.

I constantly refine my methods based on client feedback through regular check ins and surveys, allowing me to adapt my approach to better serve their evolving needs.

Additionally, I incorporate innovative activities like interactive workshops and technology driven tools to enhance engagement and foster a deeper learning experience.

Ultimately, my goal is to help clients achieve meaningful outcomes that resonate with their personal and professional lives.

What’s unique about your coaching approach?

My coaching approach is unique because it is rooted in empathy and personal experience.

Coming from humble beginnings, I understand the challenges many individuals face, and I strive to create a safe and supportive environment for my clients.

I believe that everyone has their own story to tell, so I tailor my coaching to meet their unique circumstances.

I incorporate active listening and open communication, encouraging my clients to voice their thoughts and feelings.

I also emphasize the importance of giving back, which reflects my passion for community engagement.

I often incorporate discussions on social responsibility and how one’s unique skills can be leveraged to help others.

Additionally, I focus on holistic development.

Beyond professional goals, I help clients explore personal growth areas, including emotional intelligence and resilience.

By blending these elements, I empower my clients not only to achieve their goals but also to become compassionate leaders in their communities.

What benefits do your clients get after working with you?

Clients who work with me can expect to experience transformative growth both personally and professionally.

One of the primary benefits is enhanced self awareness.

I guide them in understanding their strengths, values, and areas for improvement, which allows them to make informed decisions.

Additionally, I focus on goal setting and action planning, helping clients clarify their objectives and develop a clear roadmap to achieve them.

This structured approach fosters accountability, motivating them to stay committed and track their progress.

My clients also gain valuable skills in emotional intelligence and resilience, which are essential for navigating challenges in their careers and personal lives.

I emphasize the importance of establishing a supportive network, so they learn how to cultivate meaningful relationships and become effective communicators and leaders.

Ultimately, my aim is for clients to leave our work together feeling more confident, inspired, and equipped with the tools to overcome obstacles and contribute positively to their communities.

Do you use any specific tools to be efficient with your clients?

Yes, I utilize specific tools to be more efficient and effective with my clients.

One of the key methods I employ is self assessments, which allow me to gain deeper insights into my clients’ strengths, values, and areas for growth.

This foundational understanding helps us to establish clear goals and ensures that our sessions are focused and relevant.

In addition to self assessments, I assign homework that encourages reflection and active engagement in the coaching process.

These assignments not only reinforce what we discuss during our sessions but also empower clients to take ownership of their journey.

They enable my clients to identify patterns, cultivate new skills, and track their progress over time.

Together, these tools create a personalized experience that drives meaningful change, fosters accountability, and builds a stronger rapport between us.

The Impact:

If you had a super megaphone that, when you speak into, the whole world will hear your message, what would you say?

We are all connected by our shared humanity, and each one of us has a unique story worth telling.

In a world that often feels divided, let’s choose kindness, understanding, and compassion.

Embrace your differences and use them as strengths to build bridges rather than walls.

Take a moment to listen.. truly listen to one another, because empathy is our greatest tool for change.

Stand up for what you believe in but remember that dialogue and collaboration can pave the way to progress.

Let us strive to lift each other up rather than tear each other down, recognizing that we all have struggles and triumphs that shape who we are.

Together, we can create a world where everyone feels valued, heard, and empowered to chase their dreams.

So, let’s take action, big or small, toward creating a brighter future for ourselves and generations to come.

Your voice matters.

When we unite our voices, we can be a force for good.

What is the greatest lesson you have learned in your life?

I came from humble beginnings, which instilled in me a deep sense of humility and a commitment to giving back.

One of my greatest passions is addressing homelessness, and I volunteer once a year for a count of the homeless in NYC.

This experience has opened my eyes to the struggles many face and has reinforced the importance of compassion in our communities.

Additionally, I mentor students and serve on the selection committee at my old college, where I help interview candidates for scholarships.

These activities allow me to share my experiences and support others in achieving their goals.

The greatest lesson I’ve learned is that by staying humble and giving, we can make a meaningful impact on the lives of those around us.

Your final thoughts?

In closing, my commitment to understanding and supporting my clients is at the heart of my approach.

I believe that everyone has the potential for growth and transformation, and I am here to guide you every step of the way.

If you’re ready to embark on this journey, I invite you to reach out and share your goals, challenges, and aspirations with me.

Together, we can create a tailored plan that truly aligns with your unique needs.

Remember, every step you take toward understanding yourself better is a step toward a brighter future.

I’m excited about the possibility of collaborating with you and helping you unlock your full potential!

Where Can You Find Esther Murray?

If you liked this interview and if you would love to gain better self awareness, discover your strengths, and improve your emotional intelligence, go to https://www.esthermurray.com/ and see how coach Esther can help you do that.

If you’d like to peak a glimpse to her coaching, you can follow her Instagram or Facebook accounts.

And if you’d like to connect with her more personally, you can do that through LinkedIn or by sending her a direct message on her Email [email protected]. It was an honor having this interview with her.