FINDING A JOB
"At the end of May, 2009, I was laid off by my employer of almost 10 years. I was devastated, angry and petrified. As the sole income earner in a family of four, I needed to pull it together quickly and could not waste time feeling sorry for myself. That is where HG Life Coaching came in. My Coach nursed my wounds and helped me get over the "negativity" I was feeling. She set goals (personally and professionally) to keep me focused on the task at hand. When I started to slip, she reinforced the need for me to BELIEVE, BELIEVE, BELIEVE! She helped me with interviewing tactics and even networked on my behalf.
I was only out of work for 10 weeks, which I consider to be a major accomplishment in today's economic climate. And, I swear, I owe it to my coach. If it weren't for her, I would still be hiding under my bed!
Thank you!"
~ Nicole R., VP, Business Development
NEEDING AN ASS-KICKER
"I'm a person who makes things for a living, but when I first met Lauren, my life coach, I'd lost faith in what I do. I was pretty sure I'd killed the joy of creativity by making a job out of it, and there's nothing more depressing than that: living your dream and despising it anyway.
Working with Lauren has helped me get back to what I love about music and art. I didn't need a listener or a sympathizer; I needed an ass-kicker — someone stubborn enough to win arguments with me, someone strong-willed enough to pry me out of my own bad habits. My coach got me moving in the right direction again, working toward my goals instead of against them."
~ Damian Kulash, Lead Singer & Guitarist – OK Go
TAKING PRIDE IN YOUR RELATIONSHIPS
"Working with the Handel Group has helped me stay true to my highest visions for myself. My life coach understands the kind dreamer that I am. She holds me to account for following through on my greatest dreams and dares me to go for it even bigger than I would normally dare to myself. She has also coached me through having difficult & important conversations. She taught me how to remain true to my own feelings and desired outcomes while still being compassionate with others and taking ownership of my own faults. Being able to have these kinds of conversations has forever deepened the level of intimacy I have with my husband, my family, my friends and my co-workers; I now have the tools to feel consistently peaceful & proud of my relationships."
~ Amy DuBois Barnett, Deputy Editor in Chief, Harpers Bazaar/Author
KICKING A**
"The Handel methodology of transformation is genius. You guys are a dream come true for me. If you combine all the therapy, personal development programs and spiritual paths I have been on over the past 30 years and put it on crack, there HG Life Coaching stands.
The simple tools you provide combined with firm no nonsense coaching work: responsibility, commitment, honesty, and accountability. They are adding up to a new level of integrity for me. I feel it in my core.
Laurie, you have coached me with straightforward, concise and incisive wisdom. You are tough, you are confident, and you take risks. Your words are delivered from a place of love and I am able to receive my "tough truths" knowing they are coming from a sensitive and compassionate heart. I feel it, so I don't waste time fighting it. I trust you, I trust the process and we are kicking ass!"
~Anne Geary
CHANGING YOUR LIFE
"My work with The Handel Group for the past 3 years has changed every aspect of my life for the better. They have helped me understand that I can do what I dream of doing, that no mistake is too serious to be rectified and that my success will always be connected to actions that demonstrate my integrity for what I believe and my commitment for caring about and nurturing the people in my life."
~ Norman Marcus, M.D. Associate Professor of Anesthesiology and Psychiatry, NYU School of Medicine, Director Norman Marcus Pain Institute
OPENING YOUR MIND
"My company decided to work with the Handel Group and I volunteered first. I wanted to solve a problem and I thought their approach was new and could clear up my issues. My coach's energy and her ability to comprehend and define complex emotions and situations were the most compelling things about her. I learned to open my mind, to see more clearly, to use my senses more. I expected behavioral change, which happened, but also a way of processing began to emerge as well. I learned how to deal with politics, inconsistency, confusion, negativity at work and I clarified what I truly wanted in life."
~ Erica Bartman, Entrepreneur
ACHIEVING GREAT THINGS
"Working with a coach has helped me to take seriously the possibility of achieving great things in my life. It has also forced me to confront facts about myself and my life that stand in the way of achieving great things. This has not been an easy process, but it has certainly been well worth it."
~ Dr. Peter Stone, Assistant Professor of Political Science, Stanford University
WEIGHT AND DATING
"Working with my coach has been a profound experience for me. When we began our coaching relationship, I thought I wanted to start a small business. Two years later, I am 75 lbs lighter. I eat well, and jog at least 4 times a week. I quit smoking. I launched my writing career. I more than doubled my yearly income. I moved into a better apartment. I started dating. AND these are merely the results of something deeper and more important. My coach helped me to see my own worth and power. She did not merely coach me to get out of bed and run, but she showed me that I could love running, love mornings, and love life.
~ Kate Kaminski, Freelance Writer
COUPLES COACHING
"Sam and I were at the therapist's office on Tuesday where he said some things that I want to pass on to you both in writing, so you can see and really believe that the work you are doing is successful and of great value. The reason it is so significant is that Sam initiated the session, which is not usually the case…and he went on and on almost raving with praise.
He said that I have really changed since I have been working with HG Life Coaching for the last 5 months. He said that he doesn't walk on eggshells anymore, that I am more aware of my behavior and when I am irritable, short or unreasonable, I catch myself within minutes and acknowledge that I was out of line. He said that I am consistent, emotionally trustworthy, more empathetic with him and others, and that I am judging and criticizing others less.
He said that he is able to feel vulnerable when he is with me and is comfortable being honest without the fear that I would attack him for giving me the wrong answer which made me mad and irritated. He said that he is able to relax and be more comfortable with me, and not withdraw when we are together. He said he has never been able to really relax and be honest. I said, "Never?" He repeated "Never!"
He sees how much happier I am as a result of working with HG. He said that it is rubbing off on him and that he is feeling better about himself, too. He is making many small changes by getting things done as they need to get done, so he feels less overwhelmed. He said he has more energy and feels more self-confident.
He also said that, at first, he was suspicious, non-trusting and concerned that one day I would just stop, but he is believing that these are becoming new habits…so hear, hear, you guys…be proud. I am!"
~ Anne
INTENSIVE WEEKEND
"The Intensive Weekend was an amazing experience. I continue to confirm that without the support of the coaches & the structures of the Handel Methodology it would be difficult for me to realize my dreams. The weekend and all of the other work I do with the Handel Group has impacted me in an extremely positive way. Of course, there are many times that the road gets difficult and I get afraid to really peer deep into things. But, 100% of the time, when I finally do look, I am relieved of the ropes that have held me down for so much of my life."
~ Risa
TAKING PRIDE IN MYSELF
"I started this journey because I was turning 40, had two great kids, a wonderful career, and a good marriage, but I felt like something was missing. I felt like I was a hamster on a spinning wheel and not getting anywhere. I wanted to have vision and happiness. I was also very much a skeptic of coaching.
My coach started with a road map, which identified areas I was not completely happy about, and some areas where I really needed change. We accomplished an incredible amount in just 60 days. For example, after 3 days of coaching, we were able to get my 2-year-old daughter to sleep through the night. Even though I had this great life I felt like I was running the household and my husband wasn't contributing his share. We are still working on this, but he now makes breakfast for the kids every weekday morning and I get to sit down with them. Once we got through the day-to-day issues, we started to tackle the bigger issue. I was not communicating my feelings to most people and therefore, they did not know who I really was. My coach helped me define my values and then speak with inspiring words rather than victimized words. Also, within 90 days I was promoted, because I made major changes in the recruiting department. Overall, my coach's guidance has made me a better, more inspiring person. This process has been a life changing event for me that I would strongly recommend to anyone who wants more than mediocrity in their lives."
~ Tracy Dickinson
DREAM BODY – A NEW APPROACH TO WEIGHT-LOSS
"I highly recommend the HG Life Coaching's "Dream Body" course to anyone looking for a new approach to weight loss. My amazing coach, Christine, presented group members with new and innovative tools we could all use to reverse self-defeating thoughts and behaviors and to develop personal integrity. In addition, she provided group members with ongoing support throughout the 12 week period to ensure we were each successful in our quest to lose weight. While I did in fact lose 20 pounds in three short months, the most rewarding experience of the journey was developing a new and healthy relationship with my body. Feeling comfortable in my own skin feels incredible; so thank you HG, for helping me change my body and my life!"
~ Michelle
WAS IT WORTH IT? YOU BET
"Deciding to have a coach was a tough decision. After all, we all think we have it nailed and that, given time, it will all come together, right? Maybe so, but this definitely speeds up the process. Since starting work with my coach and The Handel Group, I have taken my business from $500,000 P/A in revenue to over $3,000,000 and climbing. Was it worth it? You bet."
~ James Mansfield
CREATING YOUR LIFE
"I have been working with my life coach for over 3 years now. During that time I have started a new company, started a website, produced two workout videos and am also in the process of writing a book. I am taking on things in my life that I have been wanting, such as being in a great, loving relationship. But what has been the most valuable outcome of this work is how I really have a new relationship to myself and what I think I am capable of accomplishing. I believe that life is not about the things we accomplish but the way we are being everyday. I love who I am being these days and I am clear that it is due to the passionate and enthusiastic support I get from our weekly calls."
~ Patricia Moreno, Founder IntenSati Life, Inc.
MONEY AND CAREER
"HG Life Coaching made me happier and they made me rich. They also made my business run better."
~ Bentley Meeker, Bentley Meeker Lighting & Staging
STARTING TO DREAM AGAIN
"I had some deep-rooted family issues that were holding my life hostage. My coach helped me sort through them and brought to my awareness things I had not even considered. I have a feeling of freedom and peace that I haven't felt since childhood and my creativity has soared! All of my friends tell me that I'm glowing and I know it's because of the work I've been doing with this wonderful, sensitive angel I call my Life Coach."
~ Ree T.
FINDING FULFILLMENT AND SATISFACTION
"I learned that my success in business is tied together with all the aspects of my life, my marriage, my kids, my family and my friends, and that it is hard to reach true success and fulfillment when there are breaches in these areas. My coach helped me to clear my mind of senseless inner chatter. I have been able to move beyond past difficult business and financial realities."
~ Nathan Schwarzbaum, Entrepreneur
BUILDING A CAREER
"Working with my coach has changed my life. None of the therapists and different modalities I have tried over the years offered the power and velocity of change brought about by this coaching. Within one month, I had secured a full time job after years of working part time and being a single mother."
~ Kate
BREAKING OLD HABITS
"I've always battled with my career. I felt like I had no purpose and I never liked what I was doing. My jobs always ended in me either being let go from downsizing or getting fired. My coach taught me that it's not "what I do" for a living that matters, it's how I am about what I am doing that does. My coach is teaching me how to break my old habits and how important it is to challenge my doubts and fears. I realize that I truly create my world by what I think. I now have practices in place that stop me from going down a path of negativity and self-doubt. As I keep up the practices, they get better and better and so does my life."
~ Beth Armstrong
LETTING MYSELF DREAM
"The difference in my life since working with my coach is remarkable. I have learned to let myself dream and am learning both tactically and spiritually how to design my life and achieve my dreams."
~ Amy Harrison, Business Owner
BEING WHO I REALLY AM
"I have learned so much from my life coach it's amazing. She has shown me how cut off I have been from my feelings and my life. She has shown me that it is OK for me to be who I am, and that it is all part of being human. I take myself way too seriously and she has shown me that I don't have to be right or perfect or have all of the answers. I was too busy trying to be something other than who I really am to even know what I want, and what I need to live a free and powerful life. I used to feel trapped and stuck. Now I feel free to make choices, and create my life the way that I would like it to be."
~ Tina Adams
LEARNING THAT ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE
"I think some of what was most compelling about my life coach was her totally honesty. She was fearlessly honest with me about what she saw about my life, but at the same time her unconditional acceptance of who I was had me feel totally safe telling her anything and being myself around her. One of the things that I feel The Handel Group teaches people is that your life is for living and that anything is possible. That it's completely possible to go after what your heart dreams about and that if your heart dreams about it, it's your purpose. Of course what I learned was different from what I expected. I thought when I first started to work with my life coach that she was going to teach me how to pick up chicks. She did, but in a very different way from what I expected. When I first started with her, I was 15 and we went WAY deeper than that."
~ Z.M.
FEELING AT MY WIT'S END
"Thank you. The coaching makes such a positive difference in my life. I now have systems that keep me focused, and life no longer seems bleak every few days or so. I am looking forward to addressing all areas of my life. My reason for contacting The Handel Group was because I truly felt I was at my wit's end, spinning my wheels and going nowhere fast. You answered my cry for help and I am forever grateful. Thank you."
~ Diane Williams
GAINING PERSONAL POWER
"For me, Life Coaching was a process, very individualized and tailored to my personal needs and desires. My Coach was the navigator, skillfully and safely guiding me to a new destination. Shining a light on past attitudes and actions and using the power of consequences, my coach was able to help me create life-changing behavior in just a few sessions. Coaching helped me discover the personal power necessary to move into a future of my choosing, starting right now. But my coach couldn't have done it without me. I had to take the first step. I had to decide to start the process. I'm very glad I did."
~ Jerome Butler
GETTING TREMENDOUS RESULTS
"I was introduced to my coach by a friend of mine, but knew little about life coaching, other than that my friend was getting tremendous results, especially around business development and personal wealth. I knew I needed to work on my relationships (husband, family) etc. but just didn't have the road map. The HG Coaching Methodology has taken me in so many unfamiliar, adventurous, exciting places physically, spiritually and emotionally."
~ Dara Holzman
MY COACH IS TOUGH
"My coach is incredible and helps me design my life beyond what I think I can dream. She's tough in the best way possible. You are choosing to spend your money wisely if you are looking to focus on your life and well-being. She will guide you and encourage you… and kick your butt when you need it."
~ Jennifer De Christoforo
SUCCEEDING WITH WEIGHT LOSS
"I wanted to take this moment to thank you and your staff (The Handel Group) for the outstanding program I was introduced to earlier this year. I thought weight loss was simply a function of food choices, calories in, calories out, exercise, etc. My life, like others, had become a matter of convenience: fast food, pizza delivery, TV, little or no exercise and late night eating to react to the daily stresses we incur. In starting your program, I was more or less a spectator with interest in the weekly conversations. Slowly, I found myself making changes and adjustments to food choices. It eventually became more obvious the role food had been playing in supplementing or covering up issues, concerns, stresses, habits, etc. Your program has been very effective for me! I have lost 20 pounds since the start of your program. Now food is not always about comfort; it is more often a fuel source for my body and mind. It is good to feel young again, when food did not control my primary thoughts. Thank you and your staff for helping me get to that feeling again!"
~ Mike Bannister, Business Owner
HAPPIER, THINNER AND HEALTHIER
"I know without any doubt that The Handel Group has improved my life tremendously, more than any single thing I've done so far. Obviously working out and losing weight (33 ½ lbs so far & counting) is hugely important, but the thing about HG is that it's holistic. It covers all aspects of our being. That's why I say it's had more impact than any other thing I've done to improve my life. I am happier, thinner, healthier, a teeny bit more likable, and I have an eagerness about my life that I didn't really have before. I loved being alive, but now I'm eager to get busy with the things that are important to me, and I know my work with Handel will make that happen. "There's no time to waste' is how I view it! I've done enough of that already!"
~ Bridget Buckley
BREAKING AWAY FROM OLD HABITS
"My coach is very enthusiastic and effective. She not only helps me to become aware of limiting repetitive behavior, but with the help of a framework of exercises and practices, she teaches me how to break away from old habits that are limiting growth and happiness and make long lasting changes in life in order to also have a rewarding, happy and exciting life every day!"
~ Denise Marie
KEEPING ME HONEST WITH MYSELF
"I had my first meeting with Lauren Zander at the recommendation of a friend and business associate, who I think very highly of. I would not have gone on my own, and I was not enthusiastic about the idea of meeting with a "Life Coach." However, when I met Lauren my skepticism disappeared instantly. Lauren was nothing like what I had expected. Her approach was brutally honest, but her personality was fun and creative in a way that was so engaging that it took me by surprise. What made the strongest impression on me was her incredible gift for insight. After asking me a few questions, she discerned things about me which I had not even considered, but which rang so true when they were said, that I couldn't believe that they had not been common knowledge before. It was a moving experience, which helped me to honestly identify the things that are most important in my life and how best to focus on them. Working with Lauren has been incredibly engaging and strangely comfortable, even when the things that she says and the actions that she recommends are not comfortable at all. It doesn't take long to realize that even her most uncomfortable assignments create incredible satisfaction when they are achieved. The comfort comes from knowing that what you are working toward is the truth, and that your most sincere goals are now taking priority. I realized that they cannot be put on the back burner, and that I had an astute and objective conspirator working with me toward my own success. Once Lauren helps you to put together a plan for achieving your dreams and not just being distracted by the day-to-day things that come up at random, it is very liberating. My work with Lauren helps me to maintain the perspective necessary to follow my dreams honestly and without distractions or excuses. Her bare-knuckled attitude is an incredible asset, keeping me honest with myself as we move down the road to success."
~ Chris Dell'Olio, President, Master Mind Artist Management
ASSISTING MY EVOLUTION
"My life coach has been and continues to be instrumental in my evolution. I could not have made it through the personal challenges I've faced without her abiding dedication to restoring my faith in myself. She is a powerful force on this planet– encircled by amazing people and she delivers results at a very high level. She has my utmost endorsement."
~ Jessica
APPRECIATING MY LIFE COACH
"My life coach is spectacular. She practices what she preaches and believes wholeheartedly in what she teaches. She has follow-through and really believes in her clients and what they are creating. It has been a brilliant partnership working with her on not only my career, but my life!"
~ Lora Krulak
FEELING SICK OF THERAPY
"The most compelling thing for me about Lauren was how bold and honest she was — it was such a breath of fresh air! I don't remember her promising me anything specific, but I always left my sessions feeling completely hopeful and that I could overcome my issues. Lauren empowers people to take control of their lives, issues, and dreams! I have learned from Lauren how to be very courageous and honest. I wanted coaching because I was sick of therapy. I wanted good honest feedback from an educated person, someone to help me set goals and give me homework assignments. I feel like I have made a lot of progress; many of my friends and colleagues have noticed a big difference!"
~ Amy Rice, Filmmaker
THE BEST THING I'VE DONE FOR MYSELF IN YEARS
I can say with confidence that this course has been trans-formative. I've established a plan to pay down my credit cards and LOC. It may take 12-18 months but I have a plan. My healthy water business is gaining momentum. I've been at it for 2 1/2 years but not really applying myself for most of it. I've had a huge shift in my attitude and understanding of what I need to do and especially what I am capable of. Thanks so much Jo, Zach and Nicole. This has been the best thing I have done for myself in years, maybe forever.
~ Richard Spahr, Ionways
LIFE COACHING BOOT CAMP TELECOURSE
"Not only did I discover the most significant gift I could give to the world, which was what I wanted to design my life to accomplish, it turned out to be the most enlightening and surprising epiphany I have ever been blessed to experience. I would never have been gifted with this dream that I continue to design in every moment had I not taken this course. I must say, I got off to a slow start but then I got in the game as a real player and I evolved and accomplished more than I even imagined I could – and in just a few short weeks. My coach was excellent and very supportive; I now refer to her affectionately as Yoda. I enjoyed working with a group; we were like a team pulling for each other, feeling the ups and downs, sharing our journeys and learning from each other. The convenience of phone conferencing is what made it possible for me to do as I am handicapped and I was recovering from surgery at the time. If you are serious about the steps you need to take to blow yourself away into what is tantamount to a whole new dimension, sign up for this course immediately. You will love yourself!"
~ Eileen M. Pirro, CEO, Outside of the Box
DREAM BODY COURSE CONGRATS
"My name is Pamela Hopkins and I recently attended the Dream Body workout with Christine, Stephanie and Monique (who subbed on day 1). I thought I'd just share with you how special the class was and how wonderful I thought everyone was throughout the course. I had actually heard about your group about 3 years ago and took a 1-day class with Patricia Moreno for Intens+Sati. It was great and the after conversation was good (I actually think Laurie was the group leader at the time at the Reebok Gym). But I was still uncertain of my situation here in NYC moving here in 2003 and thought "coaching" wasn't necessarily my "cup-of-tea". No real reason, just a very independent person, never heard of such a concept and not convinced I needed support or help anyway. I have been on your email list ever since and have always found the blogs inspiring. And thought…if I didn't need anyone, then why am I "inspired"? Curious. The Dream Body course earlier this year was my first real contact with a group that I thought I didn't need. The thought of sharing anything personal was frightful…especially concerning weight. And surely, all I had to do was eat less…exercise more. Seems simple enough! But after several years of gaining weight and realizing that my idea was just not working for me, it was time to change, but I was afraid. Christine, Stephanie and Monique couldn't have been nicer in allaying all those fears. Basically kicking them in the "behind" and letting me know that I'm really not that alone after all…and support is not so frightful after all either. The course was also important to me because it wasn't about just weight loss…it was about, I think, the things the coaching-vision is trying to inspire….personal integrity, power within, a lifetime of success doing, instead of being afraid to even try. Anyway, just thought I'd write and let you know how much it meant to me. I also learned to really enjoy the gym the course was given at and today joined! So there's real sense of continuing in the same spirit that began just a few weeks ago….but, will indeed, last a lifetime. It's in my head…I was truly inspired."
~ Pamela Hopkins, Partner, Project Manager / Broadcast Producer, Zero Odor LLC / Free Enterprise LLC
DESIGN YOUR LIFE WEEKEND WAS INCREDIBLE
"Hi Lauren and Laurie, I had to take a moment to share with you the incredible experience I had this past weekend at the Design Your Life Weekend (DYL Weekend) in Boston hosted by Samantha Sutton. I am sure you are already aware of her extraordinary talents, but I was amazed. I have to admit-I went into the weekend a bit skeptical that someone younger than me, who isn't married with kids yet, could help me with my biggest challenges. Not only did Samantha nail me on my biggest goal (which I wasn't even clear on myself), she continued to peel away many layers over the course of the weekend while she simultaneously did so for 8 other women. Samantha is warm, caring, loving, funny, straight forward, and SMART!! I tried going to counselors in the past and after only a couple of sessions, I was left totally unimpressed and gave up. I have a background in HR, and have managed and trained teams of people for 20 years. I have been starving to meet someone and a methodology that would get right to the heart of things fast-focusing on the positive, vs. just dredging up the past and not focusing on living your best life. This was IT! This program was exactly what I have been looking for, and Samantha was the perfect person to facilitate the weekend. I am excited to continue working with Samantha and the Handel group, and have very high hopes for amazing things to come. Thank you for creating this great program."
~ Lynne Kennedy Crouse, HR Consultant/Mom
REGARDING DESIGN YOUR LIFE WEEKEND WITH KATE PFEFFER
HG: What of the Handel Group methodology did you find most beneficial?
"Loved the challenging weekend – lots of good work, not just a lot of listening to ideas.
There's logic, science, and heart built into an easy to understand step-by-step program. I love that it's not coddling – the methodology aims to get you to your dream! At the same time – there is room for kindness. I admire that structure and truth are both big components to the work – BOTH ARE WHAT I NEED TO SEE in any sort of program. Handel is smart without arrogance. Fun and tough. Great for those serious about seeing movement in themselves. I believe in the success of this method – just right when you're not messing around about where you want to go, or habits you want to change.
I like the way Handel goes after mastering the mind. Flexibility! There is lots of room for an individual's values to be honored – this method focused on getting the PERSONAL BEST out of each participant so that they start functioning at their highest level!
Integrity is highly present in this methodology, coaches are doing the work themselves and not merely preaching or doing a job they enjoy. It's clear they are practicing the method themselves and so their understanding and ability to relate is great."
HG: Did the DYL Weekend program fail to meet, meet, or exceed your expectations? Comments?
"EXCEEDED! Most definitely came away really moved, touched, excited! I would highly recommend it and wish everyone I love would do a DYL Weekend. I believe my standards are quite high due to my professional background and my personal work on myself. Congrats to HG's DYL Weekend!! Many stars rating!
HG: What was your general impression of your leader?
"Couldn't have been more pleased! I admit to having a good measure of skepticism when I attend workshops of this type, as past experiences have taught me to look for highest levels of integrity and genuineness. Kate was deep in both areas! I found her understanding of the material deeply integrated in herself. She lead with no hesitation and also with a conscientious presence – huge values for me. She approached leading with each participants' greatest good in mind – this was absolutely clear. At no time did I pick up ego-tripping. Instead, Kate was a beautifully centered leader with deep caring about the work she was doing.
She respects each individual, listens amazingly well, guides gently but is also able to push to help client become aware, awake, and get results. I felt so good about her that I will continue with private coaching with her and feel fortunate that she is who I will get to work with!! Can't wait because I know I am in good hands with Kate as my partner."
~ Marissa Gonzalez
STRIVING FOR MORE INTEGRITY AND VISION IN MY LIFE
We've covered a very wide range of challenging topics in the last couple of years. Samantha's able to formulate an approach to anything. She's great at knowing how/when to walk the line between strict (mostly, as it should be!) and softer (occasionally, when she seems to sense I'm at a fragile moment). She's amazing at getting the most constructive work into 1/2 hour possible, and seems to value our 1/2 hr per month as much as any client relationship. It's a great drumbeat for me to keep striving for more integrity and vision in my life. I enjoy her blog, and find her tone the easiest to relate to of the coaches' writings- firm yet human and thoughtful. I like that she reminds me to make appointments without nagging. I feel that no matter what else might be going on in her life and work she has energy and enthusiasm for me.
~ Ela, Cambridge, MA
READY TO MANIFEST MY TRUE SELF
Taking the Design Your Life Weekend with you was a very liberating experience for me. With your help I got to see clearly how I've been creating my life, all of it–even the messy parts that I haven't wanted to take responsibility for. As our coach you were so honest, kind, and clear. I was amazed at your ability to unravel my story and to do it with so much compassion. I really admire the method the HG has developed and particularly your application of it. The transformation was so quick and apparent and the experience of seeing one's life truly as it is without any embellishments or fluff added is so restorative I'm sure this is not something you ever fall back from. After this weekend I am inspired to keep on this journey, especially knowing I will have help along the way. I am ready now to manifest my true self. Thank you!
Shauna, Crestone, CO
ABLE TO SEE WHERE I WAS BS'ING MYSELF
I'm always thankful for two things when I attend a self development class, 1. what I learn about myself and 2. the people I meet and the Handel Design Your Life Weekend was no exception. They had this great saying about "staying in the hug" and I couldn't describe it any better. I felt safe and listened to and cared for by all of the coaches. Samantha Sutton led the course with such a loving and honest energy that it was so clear to see her commitment that each of the students walk away with a deeper understanding of themselves and a plan to reach their goals. With Samantha's guidance I was able to see where I was "BS'ing" myself about how my life was going and what I needed to focus on to get out of my own way.
~ Mo, New York, NY
THE DESIGN YOUR LIFE WEEKEND WAS SO INCREDIBLY POWERFUL
The Handel Group's Design Your Life Weekend had such a profound impact on me that I am looking at the world with a new lens; approaching all of my relationships differently. From my interactions with my husband and family to my interactions with the barista at my local Starbucks. I can see the possibilities of what my life could be and am excited and inspired to make the changes that will get me there. My life is getting richer every single day because of this course.
Samantha's work during the Design Your Life Weekend was so incredibly powerful – she has a way of diffusing emotional situations and putting the conversation back on course in a warm, patient and caring way. Her leadership provided an atmosphere that made me feel safe sharing even the most intimate details of my life. Samantha's obvious commitment, preparation and intuition enabled her to hone in and focus on my challenges with such accuracy that it seemed she knew me my whole life. This caring preparation enabled me to walk away knowing what work I needed to do to accomplish the life I want. I am eternally grateful for her passion, commitment and mission.
~ Carrie, Yonkers, NY
NAILED ME ON MY BIGGEST GOAL
I had to take a moment to share with you the incredible experience I had this past weekend at the DYL Weekend in Boston hosted by Samantha. I am sure you are already aware of her extraordinary talents, but I was amazed. I have to admit-I went into the weekend a bit skeptical that someone younger than me, who isn't married with kids yet, could help me with my biggest challenges. Not only did Samantha nail me on my biggest goal (which I wasn't even clear on myself), she continued to peel away many layers over the course of the weekend while she simultaneously did so for 8 other women.
Samantha is warm, caring, loving, funny, straight forward, and SMART!! I tried going to counselors in the past and after only a couple of sessions, I was left totally unimpressed and gave up. I have a background in HR, and have managed and trained teams of people for 20 years. I have been starving to meet someone and a methodology that would get right to the heart of things fast-focusing on the positive, vs. just dredging up the past and not focusing on living your best life. This was IT! This program was exactly what I have been looking for, and Samantha was the perfect person to facilitate the weekend.
I am excited to continue working with Samantha and the Handel Group, and have very high hopes for amazing things to come.
Thank you for creating this great program!
~ Lynne, Lyndeborough, NH
DATING 101
"Marnie, Thank you for leading such a powerful call. Though I wasn't able to come off mute, I was giggling and enjoying it entirely. It was such a breath of fresh air to bring levity to this area! Perhaps my favorite quote among so many amazing ones: "You can't blow it up with the one. It's unblow-up-able. There is no drought you chicken, he's not your man if he wants someone else." Thank you for giving it to us straight and for pushing me forward. I am currently taking a 12-week intensive Handel course and because this is one of my top areas, I was excited to zone in on it during the call. Grateful for this work - it's changing my world."
~ Joanna
TESTIMONIAL FOR THE INTENSIVE COURSE
"This was a time of profound change for me as I recognized myself so much more completely. I learnt to be open and to share, to be humble and imperfect, to ask for help, and, most essentially, to live from my heart, letting it lead the way. One of the most difficult demanding times of my life became a time of initiation and transformation for me with the assistance of this sacred group, holding me accountable and cheering me on. As you held space and helped me along, I grew more insightful, more assured and much wiser. I look back on this year as something I am so so grateful for. I received a ton of lessons in all areas of my life and I was able to open to them and live skillfully through them. Again, thank you."
~ Sara E., North Palm Beach, FL
I GET TO HAVE THE KNOWLEDGE NOW
"I feel like coaching accelerated learnings that would have taken a really long time to get on my own. Do you know how people say at the end of their lives that, in retrospect, they wish they would have known to spend more time with their families, or some other revelation like that? Well, I get to have that knowledge NOW. I don't need to wait until I'm 80 to learn these things about my life."
~ Lily K, Boston, MA