20 years in purchasing. And then

Today I sit in my coaching space in Hindelbank, listening to people and walking with them on their path. A few years ago, I sat crying in my car in front of the office, unable to get out.

This is my story. And I share it because I believe it can give you something — no matter where you are right now.

20 years, one field, one path

I spent my entire professional life in strategic procurement. More than 20 years. Heavy industry first — an environment as unique as the job itself. If you know my name and work in the industry, you probably know what I mean.

I was good at what I did. Negotiations, supplier management, million-franc budgets. The work was demanding, often exciting, sometimes wearing. But it was my world.

Until it wasn't anymore.

When the ground shakes

There were phases when the strain grew bigger than the energy I brought with me. Not only at work — much of my private life was tuned for performance too. At some point, it became too much on both sides. Sleep problems, exhaustion, the feeling of fighting windmills. I switched jobs, hoping a new environment would be enough. Sometimes it got better — for a while.

At some point, I got professional help. And I'm glad I did. If you're in a similar situation: don't hesitate to reach out for support. It's not a sign of weakness — it's the most courageous step you can take.

The question that wouldn't stop

After more than 20 years in procurement, a question settled in and wouldn't go away: what comes next? Not because the job was bad — but because something was growing in me that asked for more. A curiosity that could no longer be ignored.

At first, it was quiet. Background noise. Then it grew louder. And at some point, you start to listen.

The answer was within me

Through a referral, I found my coach. She works with the Co-Active approach — and from the very first session, I sensed it: something different was happening here than in therapy.

No one gave me an answer. No one told me what to do. Instead, a force emerged that drove me forward. I sensed it: the solution lies within me. I am creative and whole. I don't need to be fixed — I get to look forward.

I explored alternatives intensively — and that unleashed a whole different energy. Without anyone pushing me there, without outside expectations, a path emerged from my own drive.

This energy that grows out of Co-Active Coaching — it was the most powerful experience of my life. And I knew: this is what I want to pass on.

What I want to tell you

Coaching cannot replace therapy. That's important to me. If you need help, don't hesitate to reach out for it. I did — and I'm grateful I did.

But coaching can complement therapy. Therapy looks back and helps you understand where you come from. Coaching looks forward and helps you find out where you want to go. In therapy, expertise lies with the therapist. In coaching, it lies with you.

An now what?

Today I'm taking the Co-Active training course at Competence. My goal: CPCC and ACC. I'm building something that's bigger than just a career change. It's a new life.

I'm not telling you this because my story is special. But because it isn't. Because there are people out there standing exactly where I stood a few years ago. Who ask themselves if this is really all there is. Who can't sleep. Who compare themselves. Who don't feel like enough.

If you're reading this and recognizing yourself: you don't have to change everything at once. But you get to start listening. The question is already there. Maybe it's time to give it an answer.

Let's talk

This post is my personal story. It is not a substitute for psychological or medical professional advice. If you feel you need support, I encourage you to reach out to a professional. It's not a sign of weakness — it's the most courageous step you can take.