I know firsthand what it is like to lead under pressure—juggling competing demands, holding responsibility for others, and pushing through day after day without much space to pause. On the outside, I looked composed and in control. Inside, I often felt stretched thin and alone under the weight of it all.

It was through coaching that I found something I hadn’t even realised I was missing space.

Space to breathe. To think differently. To reconnect with myself.

That experience was a turning point. It led me to train formally as an executive coach and psychometric practitioner, building on my leadership background to support others facing similar challenges—whether that’s team dynamics, tricky relationships, organisational change, tough decisions, or simply the emotional demands of being in a leadership role.

Today, through CoachMuse, I work with individuals, teams, and organisations to explore what’s really going on—beneath the surface.

Our coaching creates a safe, transformative space where discovery, innovation, and meaningful change can happen.

We lead with curiosity and deep listening. We create space for reflection, ask the questions that matter, and offer feedback that encourages ownership and growth. While we use tools like MBTI, NLP, Emotional and Political Intelligence, and leadership assessments, it’s not just about the frameworks—it’s about being present, listening deeply, and helping people open up to new ways of thinking and leading.

This work is personal for me.

Because when people have the space to step back and really see what’s possible—they often discover they’re far more capable than they ever imagined.

Read more about Marion Smith here.