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Reflect with Sarah

5/ Why strengths matter
Sarah Cretegny Sarah Cretegny

5/ Why strengths matter

Why Strengths Matter?

What if the key to thriving isn’t about changing who you are, but more fully embracing who you were created to be?

I think we all agree that humans are wonderfully unique and masters of much. Yet we are endlessly complex and when it comes to identifying our own innate strengths—or even recognizing them in others—we often fall short. We dismiss our talents as “normal” or “nothing special,” assuming everyone else has them too.

But here’s the thing…the truth is we are each individually and wonderfully made. When we intentionally use our strengths, we unlock ease, flow, and joy in what we do. We begin to see the value in who we are, which benefits not only us but also the teams and communities we’re part of.

The Power of Strengths-Based Development

Imagine a workplace or a family or a community where people know what they’re naturally good at—and they value it enough to use it every day. This isn’t just wishful thinking; it’s the foundation of strengths-based development, a practice backed by over 5 decades of Gallup research.

The principle is simple: when people focus on what they do best, everyone thrives. It’s not just about improving performance—it’s about creating cultures where individuals feel valued for their uniqueness while contributing to the collective good.

Why CliftonStrengths?

At the heart of strengths-based development is CliftonStrengths, a 30-minute online assessment that has helped over 30 million people worldwide discover their natural talents. The results provide detailed insights into our unique abilities and actionable ways to turn them into powerful strengths.

Watch this short video to understand more about Clifton Strengths. https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=C8OFpoP9pxE

But this tool is only the beginning. The real transformation happens when we understand how to align our strengths with our goals and navigate challenges with more confidence.

Why does this matter:

Research shows that individuals who use their strengths daily are:

  • 3x more likely to report an excellent quality of life.

  • 6x more likely to be engaged in their work.

  • More confident, productive, and likely to achieve their goals.

  • Happier, healthier, and less likely to experience stress or burnout.

Strengths-based coaching isn’t just about achieving more—it’s about investing in ourselves so we can thrive in every area of life.

How I Use My Strengths to Partner with You

As a CliftonStrengths accredited Coach, I’ve learned to not only understand my own strengths but also leverage them to create meaningful, transformational experiences for my clients. Here’s how my top strengths come into play:

  • Achiever: I match your effort and commitment. Together, we’ll focus on what matters most to you and work diligently toward your goals.

  • Connectedness: I see how everything fits together. I’ll help you find holistic solutions that integrate your insights, values, and aspirations.

  • Responsibility: You can count on me. I honor every commitment and do whatever is in my control to help you succeed.

  • Individualization: You are unique, and your coaching experience will reflect that. I’ll tailor each session to your needs, ensuring you feel seen, heard, and valued.

  • Arranger: Flexibility and efficiency define my approach. We’ll adapt as needed, making the most of our time and resources to achieve your goals.

Why Work with Me?

I believe coaching is a partnership. My role is to create a space where you can do your best thinking, and walk alongside you, offering observations, insights, and using tools where they may be useful—not to tell you what to do, but to empower you to think differently about what you have brought to the session.

Whether you’re navigating uncertainty, unsure of how to approach a certain aspect of your work, or embracing a career transition or building a stronger team, strengths-based coaching can provide the clarity and confidence you need.

Ready to Discover Your Strengths?

Are you ready to embrace your natural talents and unlock a life of more ease, flow, and joy? Let’s start with a free curiosity call.

Each month I also co-host a FREE 90-minute introduction to CliftonStrengths, where we create a fun and empowering space to appreciate our differences and grow together. Signing up with also give you access to a range of brilliant free resources as you continue discovering how to embrace your talents and develop them into your strengths. I recommend that you find the date that works for you and book your place.  Looking forward to seeing you there.

 

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4/ An Unlikely Trailblazer: Aligning My Life With Courage and Authenticity
Sarah Cretegny Sarah Cretegny

4/ An Unlikely Trailblazer: Aligning My Life With Courage and Authenticity

An Unlikely Trailblazer: Aligning My Life With Courage and Authenticity

If you’d told me a year ago that I’d be stepping into a year of alignment, visibility, and courage, I wouldn’t have believed you. I’m highly sensitive, I feel a lot and I don’t love being in the spotlight. But one thing I’ve always done is be true to my values and embrace my courage—even when it wasn’t the norm.

This year, that quiet persistence has taken me on a journey to align my life with what matters most: my family, my dream of using my creative thinking in my profession, and starting my own business in a way that allows me to still be a present mum. It hasn’t been easy, and there is still a long journey ahead, but I’m learning that you don’t have to be loud or fearless to create a meaningful life—you just need to take one step at a time.

Aligning With What Matters

For me, alignment means focusing on my priorities and letting go of what doesn’t serve them. Looking back over last year that’s looked like:

  • Family first: Making time for meaningful connections and prioritising time together.

  • Coaching career: Committing to my training and staying connected to my purpose.

  • Starting a business: Taking small, consistent steps, even when it feels messy and uncertain.

It’s not about perfection—it’s about progress. Each intentional choice is bringing me closer to a life that feels true to me.

Learning to Be Seen

Visibility has been a real challenge. I’ve always preferred to work on the invisible things – like creating atmospheres and building meaningful connections, but I’ve realized that in a way I was also enjoying being invisible… and that was holding me back. Being seen isn’t about being someone I’m not—it’s about showing up as myself, believing that I am enough and putting myself in places where my potential clients will see me.

Here’s what I’ve learned about visibility:

  • Imperfect is okay: People connect with honesty, not perfection.

  • It builds connection: Sharing my story helps me find the people I’m meant to partner with.

  • It’s a process: Confidence grows with each small step forward.

Finding Courage as I live My Values

I’ve always dared to follow my values and dreams, even when it makes me stand out! Moving to Switzerland many years ago, being a stay at home mum, and now starting my coaching business have all taken courage.  That quiet courage has shaped my path, and this year, it’s helped me:

  • Step into opportunities that scare me.

  • Take action toward my coaching and business goals, even without guarantees.

  • Trust that being true to myself is the best way to lead.

You Don’t Have to Be Fearless to Lead

Trailblazing doesn’t always look like bold speeches or big moves. Sometimes, it’s about quietly following our values and showing up for what matters most—even when it’s hard.

If this connects with you, and you’re ready to step into more alignment and create a life that feels true to you, I’d love to partner with you on that journey. As a coach who has a coach, I’m living proof of the power of coaching. It’s transformed the way I approach life, and I’m passionate about making it accessible to others too.

Curious about how coaching can work for you? Check out my introductory offers on my website—I’d love to chat and explore how we can take that first step together.

I’m here for you, believing in you – maybe more than you believe in yourself. Let’s make a start—together.

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3/ How Decisions can be Keys to Unlocking the Next Chapter of Our Lives
David Gétaz David Gétaz

3/ How Decisions can be Keys to Unlocking the Next Chapter of Our Lives

"How Decisions can be Keys to Unlocking the Next Chapter of Your Life"

Ten years ago, I was handed an ultimatum by my employer: “full-time or no time.” Choosing my family over corporate life felt like a leap into the unknown. At the time, I couldn’t have imagined the profound impact it would have—not just on me, but on my entire family. Looking back, I see how every season shaped us, teaching me lessons I never expected and giving me the keys to a life filled with purpose.

🧑‍🧒👩‍❤️‍💋‍👨 These last ten years have been anything but a “pause”. Leading my three incredible kids, each a world unto themselves, has sometimes felt like running three very unique company’s simultaneously: each navigating challenges, fostering growth, and adapting to change. Moving countries, guiding my family through COVID, and eventually retraining as a coach were milestones that have redefined my purpose.

Through this journey, I’ve discovered fulfilment beyond the boardroom. The rhythms of family life, the path of self-discovery through CliftonStrengths and stepping out in my faith, have given me a deeper understanding of what truly matters. Running a household, nurturing relationships, and building a coaching practice have taught me resilience, purpose, and joy in the everyday.

🥂 I’m grateful I chose courage and followed my heart. Today, I celebrate living with intention, embracing each chapter, and creating a life of meaning.

To all those balancing family, purpose, and growth: your choices hold the keys to a life of fulfilment. Every step you take matters, even if it feels uncertain at first.

📧 If you’re curious about Coach Your Wild, a coaching business committed to providing accessible, strengths-based personal development for individuals and teams, simply send me a message and we will find a time to chat. Let’s unlock the keys to your unique potential and discover your wild together.

🦓 The world needs more of your authentic self. Now is the time to step into who you truly are.

#CoachYourWild #StrengthsJourney #FamilyFirst #LifeRedefined #StrengthsCoach #PurposefulLiving #CliftonStrengths

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