Happy Monday, Christelle!

Imagine opening a takeout bag - same flavors you’ve had a dozen times… It’s fine, it fills you up, but it doesn’t excite you!

Now imagine preparing your own recipe: ingredients you love, the atmosphere you choose, maybe music in the background, maybe friends around the table…

Many mid-level professionals I meet feel like life is stuck on autopilot - like a takeout. You’re not alone in that feeling! Over the next few weeks, I’ll be exploring this theme with you - through newsletters like this one, a few events and articles, a YouTube recording. Think of it as a gentle invitation to taste-test a different way of living.

A Coaching-Infused Reflection

📖 Years ago, I bought a book and let it sit on my shelf. I never opened it - until one day, years later, I finally did. And it completely shifted how I saw my life!

The message wasn’t about chasing grand plans. It was about daring to pause and ask:

What do I really want? What am I ignoring?

✨ That book was my spark. It reminded me that sometimes the first step isn’t doing more - it’s asking a new question.

This is the heart of the “takeout or recipe” metaphor:

• Takeout = life happening to you, quick and easy but not always what you truly want.
• Recipe of your own = life you design with your chosen ingredients, flavors, and atmosphere.

Recent participants told me:

“This was incredible. You connected food—something so everyday—to life, which is massive. It feels attainable, and I’m inspired.” – Carla, Visual Communication Director

“It was fun, but also motivating. The metaphor stretched my mind without being painful, and I feel ready to act.” – Baylee, VP Operations, Recruitment Agency

“The food metaphor really stuck with me. I love that it was actionable, not just conceptual.” – Sarah, Project Manager, Construction Industry

Now, I’d like to invite you into the reflection:

👉 When you think about your life right now - does it feel more like takeout, or like a recipe of your own?

What’s ONE action you can take after this reflection?

Today, I’m not asking you to change your whole menu. Instead, I invite you to pause and simply start noticing:

✨ Think back to your childhood dreams: what excited you then?

✨ Consider your current dreams: what do you long for now?

✨ Notice your present pains: where does life feel bland or heavy?

And since food is our metaphor:

🍎 What ingredients do you love, and which ones would you avoid?

🍷 What ambiance do you enjoy while preparing or sharing a meal? Alone? With friends? Quiet? Music playing?

Take a few minutes to jot down whatever comes up. No pressure, no judgment - just curiosity.

We’ll look at how to turn these reflections into a clear vision and then review your current “dish” in future newsletters.

Let’s Keep the Momentum Going!

If this reflection sparks something in you and you’d like support turning it into consistent action, let’s explore together!

Then just schedule a call with me here!

Or “grab” the opportunity to experience my Coffee-Break Coaching below:

✨ ✨ Limited Offer - Coffee-Break Coaching Sample (free session) ✨ ✨

☕ Your Next Step Could Be Just 20 Minutes Away! ☕

Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure how to move forward? In just one Coffee-Break Coaching Sample session, we’ll focus on what matters most to you right now - and you’ll leave with one simple, doable action you can take immediately. - It’s short, powerful, and completely free for a limited time!

👉 Check details here

 Upcoming Events & Latest News

• Read my latest article "What’s Really Stopping You? Peel Back the Layers and Move Forward"
• Sept. 23, 2025 - Ellevate Circle "50+ Professionals": Is Your Life a Ready-Made Meal… or One You Designed Yourself?
• Oct. 2, 2025 - Ready-Made Life… or Your Own Recipe? (a Coaching-Infused Conversation LinkedIn Live - Get sparks of new awareness and reflection!)
• Oct. 17, 2025 - Takeaway Life… or One You’ve Cooked Yourself? (a Coaching-Infused Conversation Sample – A live, small-group conversation to experience personal insight and gentle action!)

Check out the Events page for details and registrations!

Bon appétit to new beginnings!

Christelle (Self-Leadership Awakener – Coach, Facilitator)