I Became the CEO of My Life Through Coaching – And You Can Too

Faye and Aiko-san together in a cosy setting, celebrating the friendship and mentorship that inspired Faye’s journey from corporate leader to transformational coach.

My journey to becoming a certified transformational coach began at the age of 45, after more than two decades as a corporate professional and a life-changing battle with cancer. In 2024, I finally took ownership of my life, stepping out of the shadows of corporate expectations and into the light of self-leadership. This transformation was inspired by my Japanese teacher, Aiko-san (藍子さん), and has since become the foundation of my coaching practice, where I now help others redesign their lives and become the CEOs of their own destinies.

Breaking Free from Corporate Burnout: The Start of My Life Coaching Journey

For over twenty years, I lived a life dictated by others ─ managers, clients, and the relentless demands of corporate culture. My days blurred into a cycle of meetings, deadlines, and obligations. Personal needs ─ lunch breaks, family time, even sleep

─ were luxuries I postponed, always waiting for permission that never truly came. I know now that this is the reality for many professionals who come to me for life coaching, desperate for change but unsure where to begin.

Transformation Through Adversity: Lessons from Cancer

My wake-up call came in the most unexpected way. Shortly after the birth of my second child, I was diagnosed with Stage 3 triple negative breast cancer. I had ignored a 5cm lump throughout my pregnancy, prioritising work and family over my own wellbeing. Even after the diagnosis, I returned to work just sixteen weeks after giving birth ─ juggling chemotherapy, surgery, and radiotherapy while leading a major project overseas. I remember flying to Tajikistan two weeks post-surgery, nearly bald, and commuting daily for radiotherapy before returning to the office to meet deadlines. Recognition was fleeting; my boss was never satisfied.

This experience taught me three invaluable lessons that now shape my coaching

philosophy:

1. The future is never guaranteed. We put off joy, self-care, and adventure, believing there will always be time later. Now, I prioritise annual adventures with friends ─ like witnessing the Northern Lights in Finland in January 2025 ─ because life is meant to be lived now.

   
   

2. Superficial worries are just that ─ superficial. I once feared losing my hair more than facing my illness. Yet, when it happened, I realised true confidence comes from within. I see clients delay important decisions for fear of judgement, but coaching helps them find the courage to embrace change.

   
   

3. Independence is the greatest gift. Life moves on, with or without us. My coaching practice is rooted in empowering clients to thrive independently, no matter what challenges arise.

The Power of Coaching: Lessons from Aiko-san

In 2019, I began learning Japanese ─ My boss often criticised my forgetfulness ─ a possible symptom post cancer treatments. Through several teachers, I eventually met Aiko-san, whom I realised is more than just a language teacher. Our lessons often evolved into heartfelt conversations about work, family, and the overwhelming pressures I faced. Aiko-san never judged or offered prescriptive advice. Instead, she gently encouraged me to journal ─ to write down my thoughts, strengths, and dreams for a better life. This simple act of self-reflection became transformative. I discovered clarity and purpose through words, and with Aiko-san’s encouragement, I began to see myself not just as a survivor, but as a leader of my own life.

Inspired by her, I pursued certification with the International Coaching Federation. Today, I continue to learn from Aiko-san ─ not just language, but the art of listening, questioning, and guiding others towards self-awareness. She was my first coach, and now I am proud to offer transformational coaching to others seeking the same breakthrough.

From Outward Achievement to Inward Fulfilment

By the end of 2023, I made the bold decision to leave full-time corporate life and embark on a freelance journey as a transformational coach, corporate consultant, and board director. The transition was daunting. No longer was I running on autopilot; I am now fully accountable for my own growth and happiness. My days now begin with intention ─ time for family, exercise, reflection, and journaling. I divide my time between coaching clients, corporate clients, volunteering, learning, and embracing all my roles: mother, wife, daughter, sister, friend, and coach. Each day brings new challenges, but also new opportunities to grow and support others on their journeys.

Are You Ready to Become the CEO of Your Life?

It’s been over a year since I took charge of my destiny. As a certified life

transformation coach, I now guide professionals who feel trapped by corporate

demands to reclaim their power, rediscover their passion, and design lives filled with

purpose and joy.

Ask yourself:

• What is it costing you to continue living as you are?

• What do you need to let go of, in order to make space for self-love and self-care?

• What does your ideal life look like ─ who is with you, and what are you doing in that vision?

If these questions resonate with you, I invite you to take the first step. Book a

complimentary discovery call with me and explore how transformational coaching

can help you become the CEO of your own life. Your journey starts now.

About the Author

Faye Chong is a certified transformational coach, corporate consultant, and board director for a listed company. With over 20 years of leadership experience in the corporate world, Faye specialises in helping professionals and organisations navigate change, overcome burnout, and unlock their full potential. Her personal journey through cancer and corporate reinvention inspired her to empower others to become the CEOs of their own lives. Faye combines deep empathy, strategic insight, and practical coaching tools to guide clients towards greater self-leadership, resilience, and fulfilment. As an active board director and business consultant, she brings a unique blend of executive perspective and human-centred coaching to every engagement. Faye is passionate about fostering growth, wellbeing, and sustainable success for individuals and teams. Learn more about her work and approach at The Gain Lab.