From my earliest memories, I've embodied an unwavering ambition. Being the second oldest among my siblings, I naturally assumed the role of a leader and a model for others to follow. My mother instilled in me the importance of education as a pathway to security, and I wholeheartedly embraced it as a means to my goals. I pursued my education with an unyielding determination, seamlessly progressing from kindergarten to earning my master's degree without pause.

Before I even reached my thirties, I had already assumed the role of director for two different federal grant programs, led various organizations, and consistently sought to surpass my own previous achievements. In my pursuit of success, I often disregarded the warning signs of stress, buried my feelings of overwhelm, and internalized my fears and doubts. After all, so many people had grown accustomed to seeing me as the person who always had it together and held it together.

It wasn't until I realized that my burnout and disengagement were affecting not only myself but also my family that I began to reassess my approach. As I became more attuned to my triggers for burnout, learned to communicate my needs, and accepted help when it was offered, I started to align my actions with my values. I began to feel relieved and truly experienced success. It was then that I harnessed my resilience to the fullest, thrived even in the face of adversity, and discovered the true essence of living life in balance. 

I am Rachel and I am a stress management coach who helps ambitious individuals to achieve life balance through incorporating stress management skills and strategies.