My friend and collegue, Laura Allen, writes a blog for Massage Magazine.  I was just perusing her recent columns and ran across her suggestions for working with a mentor or coach in Who's Your Coach? In the post she describes the qualities she looks for in various kinds of experts that she turns to for advice including business advice.

I am definitely the blood, sweat and tears, "been there, done that" kind of coach. Having a small massage practice, turning it into a large day spa and then selling it sucessfully - plus managing as many as 50 employees and all the joys that come with a business that size - taught me more than I ever thought possible...and with an abundance of all the bodily fluids mentioned above.

One of the benefits of this though for both myself and the clients of my consulting business, Spalutions,  is that I have learned to think even more creatively, to assess situations even more thoroughly and come up with ideas and solutions I had never considered before.

To me that problem-solving ability is what makes me a good coach/mentor and business owner. Combined with my deep understanding and compassion for what people are going through in their daily grinds and an inherent desire to help others succeed is what makes me a good coach and advisor for massage, healing arts and spa professionals, and spa owners. 

Anyone who is looking for a coach or mentor needs to find someone they can relate to, connect with, and be supported by. Just like finding a good massage therapist, esthetician, counselor or perhaps even a minister, there needs to be a good fit between the parties, an ability to hear what the other is saying, and an understanding of the desired outcome for the relationship. They also need to be someone who will help you stay on track and accountable for your plans and goals.

The coach I work with for business/personal balance and improvement is all of those things for me. Working with her has helped me stay on track for my goals and make decisions that I needed to make. I encourage all of you to get the support, advice, and encouragement you need from a mentor or coach you can count on. It can make an amazing difference in your career and life. Please let me know if I can be of help!

Felicia Brown
Spa Consultant (and Spa Owner part deux)