John has been in the corporate world for over three decades; two-thirds of which he spent at one of the largest technology companies in the world – Microsoft. However, in 2017, he decided to step onto the path of entrepreneurship and strike out on his own as an independent coach and consultant. Describing himself as an “aggressive learner”, John is always on a continuous journey of deep, personal development.
Hey John, I’m excited to start, so let’s begin! What are some of the significant personal/professional changes in your life since PCD?
I would describe my experience as a complete three-dimensional shift in who I am as a person entirely – as a coach, a family man & a businessman. I feel like I am not only changing my life, but also the lives of those I come in contact with. I am now more present, objective and unassuming.
You know, I was especially moved when the people I hold dearest acknowledged my growth.
My partner said: “You are such a great coach. Can you always be a coach? It’s so good for me, for the children.”
My son said, “You are so different now. You are really listening so much more.”
That went straight to my heart. I am grateful.
What was the biggest/most important lesson you learned about yourself after learning/practising coaching?
I think I really understood why it is so important for a coach to both coach and get coached. Practising what you learn during any program is so very powerful and important, especially if a program builds that element into the entire experience.
What are some challenges you are experiencing in your life right now and how are you working on them?
I feel like I am still figuring out what ‘type’ of coach I want to be. Also, it does get a little lonely at times as I am trying to build up my business. However, I find that I am able to coach myself and apply what I have learned on myself. Self-coaching, if you would call it.
What advice would you give to someone who is considering taking on coaching as a skill for themselves?
Be very clear why you are doing it. Learn and practise, learn and practise, learn and practise. I cannot stress that enough. There’s really no excuse, because the content is only as good as your follow-up. If you don’t do it, it gets lost.
What are some of the exciting plans you have for yourself in the near future?
I really love being an executive coach because we get a chance to enable people to clearly see themselves and tap into their hidden potentials and strengths. This impacts not only their professional lives, but it’s the transformation is in its totality – mind and body. I started Pepperminted three years ago – it is a concierge spa service and what’s interesting is our pool of clients include enterprises who are consciously encouraging self-care in their corporate philosophy.
People can also learn more about our executive coaching services www.thejohnnielsen.com and if you are keen to foster self-care and integrate wellness into your personal and corporate life, contact us at www.pepperminted.com.sg.
