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Life is a Journey

4 Sept 2025 Lorena Said

Breaking Barriers and Finding Connection: A Life Coach’s Perspective

tony robbins

By Lorena Said

Introduction

My interest in becoming a Life Coach began when I watched Tony Robbins' documentary on Netflix, I Am Not Your Guru. I was deeply moved by how he helped other people face problems that seemed incredibly complex, and how they were able to resolve them in a fast, clear, and transformative way.

That powerful and direct approach made me realise that I wanted to do something similar to support others in their personal journeys, help them break through mental and emotional barriers, and make decisions that truly transform their lives.

Since then, I’ve been training and working with people who are seeking clarity, direction, and personal growth.

My typical day

I’d love to tell you that I make a full-time living as a Life Coach, but I’d be lying. The truth is, I’m still in the process of building that dream. Right now, work as a community manager while I continue coaching on the side.

A typical day for me is a mix of responsibilities: managing social media content, attending meetings in my role as a community manager, and carving out time for coaching sessions and personal growth. Each day is a balancing act — but one filled with moments of insight and transformation.

What makes it all worthwhile is seeing people change their lives. Witnessing that moment when something 'clicks' for them, and suddenly they see things differently. Helping someone move from feeling stuck to smiling with confidence and clarity… there’s nothing more fulfilling than that.

Lessons from my clients

When Betrayal Changes You: What makes it all worthwhile is seeing people change

I’m currently working with a client who, like many of us, has always been a kind, generous, and empathetic person. However, they have been betrayed by people very close to them: a parent, a partner, a sibling.

And when someone so intimate hurts you, life changes. You stop seeing the world the same way.

Betrayal from someone close not only hurts — it transforms you.

You feel vulnerable. You think, “If they could do this… anyone can.”

Then you start living defensively. Any small sign of disrespect, criticism, or potential harm sets you on edge. Your body becomes like a spiky armour. You push people away. You build walls. You don’t want anyone to get close enough to hurt you again.

This reaction is completely human. It’s a way to protect yourself. But if we don’t stop it in time, it can turn into an emotional prison. Isolation starts to feel safer than connection.

You don’t want to trust, help, or relate anymore.

But these protective mechanisms can become emotional prisons. True growth begins with listening: not opening up blindly, but observing, paying attention, and allowing connection to slowly re-enter our lives. Even small acts — a simple check-in, being present for someone else — create cracks in those walls.

Letting go doesn’t mean naivety. It means learning to live more lightly, opening the door for healthy, trusting relationships while still protecting yourself.

But we are not at war. The risk of living only for yourself.

Some people approach life with a self-centred philosophy: “I live my life, I don’t care about others.” While this may feel protective, it often leads to loneliness and resentment.

We convince ourselves that all relationships are about power or being in control, that others only approach for convenience, or that they will inevitably take advantage of us.

But that’s not true.

That mindset is not a life strategy — it’s a defense. And living in constant battle with the world pushes away the peace we’re really searching for.

Life is a balance of giving and receiving. To be seen, heard, and supported, we must first extend empathy and attention to others.

Personal growth isn’t just internal — it’s relational. Learning to see and listen to those around us creates a foundation for trust, collaboration, and a richer, more connected life.

Understanding the 'Problem People'

We’ve all encountered people who seem determined to block our progress. Their behaviour can feel personal, draining, and frustrating.

But instead of seeing these individuals as a problem, it helps to view them as challenges that test our patience, focus, and ability to navigate conflict.

How we respond defines whether we remain stuck or continue toward our goals. Recognising and understanding these dynamics preserves our peace while keeping us on track.

So what can we do? The first step: listen.

The first step can be much simpler: listen to the other person.

Not to help. Not to get emotionally involved if you’re not ready. Just listen.

Listening to others… is also a way to listen to yourself.

Ask someone how they are doing, pay attention, be present. These small acts create cracks in our inner walls. And little by little, they remind us that not everyone is out to hurt us, that healthy relationships and good people still exist.

Breaking down the barrier starts with one gesture.

We can’t live forever in fear.

Letting go doesn’t mean exposing yourself blindly — it means allowing yourself to live more lightly. And it all begins with listening. Not just outwardly, but inwardly as well.

Listening to others… is also a way to listen to yourself.

Advice for Aspiring Life Coaches

If you’re considering coaching or personal development as a career, be open — with yourself and with others. Transparency accelerates growth, both personally and professionally.

Stay motivated by the small victories you witness in others. Keep learning, stay inspired, and engage with communities that lift you up. And most importantly, remember that your journey is ongoing. Even when progress feels slow, every step forward matters.

Looking ahead, my goal is to make coaching my full-time profession, dedicating myself 100% to helping people break through barriers, grow, and connect more deeply with themselves and others.

Life isn’t about living in fear or isolation. It’s about opening up to growth, connection, and possibility — one step, one conversation, one breakthrough at a time.

Lorena

About Lorena

Living and working in Peru, Lorena Said is committed to helping clients achieve meaningful personal and professional goals. She uses a combination of active listening, powerful questioning, and constructive feedback to encourage self-exploration and growth. Her approach is designed to support individuals in overcoming challenges, building confidence, and reaching their full potential.

Lorena also has experience in executive coaching, focusing on enhancing leadership and management skills.

Connect with Lorena on LinkedIn

Interested about training as a Life Coach in the UK?

Further reading

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Rethink Mental Illness
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