Heart-centered, women’s lifestyle coaches have the great blessing of serving women who need their mental, emotional and physical intervention programs and courses to overcome problems, challenges and limiting beliefs in their lives. When you are serving them, you are doing God’s work. And that’s a joyful place to be this Christmas. Be grateful for the opportunity as you serve through this coming year.
It’s God’s work when your programs help your sisters overcome and deal with the complex issues that women face daily: body shaming, societal expectations, limiting and blocking beliefs and the cumulative impact of the many roles women are expected to work with in any given day.
Which of the following challenges that women navigate are addressed by your coaching program? How many problem solutions do you gratefully share?
- Sexism and Prejudice. Sexism and double standards pervade many facets of women’s lives and shape their experiences. This continual exposure to warped expectations and prejudiced attitudes leads to increased stress, anxiety, and the lowering of self-esteem.
- Judgement and Perfect Appearance. Women, who are judged based on unrealistic standards and a false beauty ideal or idealized role, often absorb fallacious beliefs, creating “I’m not enough” feelings, body-loathing, and self-doubt as to their ability. Social media increases the pressure for unattainable perfection in appearance. Trying to attain a certain image can contribute to disordered eating patterns, negative body image and poor self-esteem. And it produces chronic stress and anxiety.
- Workplace Double Standards. On top of that, if she’s in the workplace, women encounter a playing field where sexism and double standards impact her career opportunities and mental health. She may face aggressive behavior, biased evaluations, unequal judgement and “pass-overs” for career advancement. These gender biases undermine her confidence, making her question her abilities and worth.
Too many biased men believe all women should only be wives, mothers, and caregivers. This belief manifests in many judgmental attitudes toward women in the workplace. And those who are supporting their family while working are subjected to discrimination and unrealistic expectations. It discourages them from expressing their needs as they simultaneously handle family and work roles which compromises their mental well-being.
- Anxiety Disorders. Anxiety disorders are a problem. Women have greater rates of general anxiety, panic disorder, and social anxiety than men. The pressure of career, family, and societal expectations contributes to feeling overwhelmed and worried. The result is restlessness, muscle tension, and/or difficulty concentrating. This impacts daily functioning and leads to depression. And cultural norms often tell women they shouldn’t express their emotions openly. So, they stuff them, resulting in feeling alone and worsening depression.
- Relationship Challenges. Relationships are a key part of women’s lives. Challenges in personal or romantic relationships include unresolved misunderstandings, disagreements, arguments, issue fights, and emotional overload. These often have a negative impact on mental health.
- Pregnancy Issues. Hormonal changes in pregnancy, physical discomfort, and worry about childbirth and parenthood produce anxiety and mood swings. Postpartum depression and anxiety are common problems after giving birth. For new mothers, adjusting to motherhood, sleep deprivation, and hormonal shifts can magnify these conditions.
- Menopause Issues. Hormonal changes during menopause can turn on emotional shifts, mood swings and anxiety. Sleep disturbances and physical symptoms also impact women’s well-being.
Women are seeking support to address any and all the above concerns. They are looking for the programs women-centered coaches can provide to lead them to mental, physical and emotional wellness. Reaching out to you with the experience to address these issues is one of the best ways for them to handle these challenges.
Many coaches provide supportive communities that have a transformative impact on each member. This community network of understanding and empathy raises awareness, promotes understanding about the unique challenges women face, and shares solutions they can implement. False beliefs are turned around. Women learn they are not alone.
You know that seeking help is a sign of strength. Mental, emotional and physical wellbeing is a journey of compassion and faith that you can facilitate as women-centered wellness coaches. You are the supportive resource women need who offers understanding and guidance.
You provide women the tools to achieve personal growth and resilience and be empowered to be their best in all they do. Your programs help women achieve the health and wellness they value and want in their lives.
What a wonderful opportunity to bring joy, peace, love, and hope to the women your programs serve. Take a moment to thank God for the blessings serving brings into your heart and mind.