"God has always been in my work, and for me, I want to give Him credit and include Him in my own way." - Meredith Brough

Embracing Empathy and Authenticity: A Sleep Expert's Journey to Effective Coaching and Personal Growth

Hello, dear readers! I'm Meredith Brough, the host of the Sweet Slumber podcast and a dedicated sleep expert. Today, I'm thrilled to share with you not only the insights and lessons I've learned in the field of sleep coaching and mentoring but also a personal journey that has shaped the way I connect with my clients and audience. Let's dive into the principles that I believe are essential for becoming a fabulous coach and mentor, and how embracing my faith has played a pivotal role in my professional and personal life.

The Five Pillars of Effective Sleep Consulting

1. Avoid Assumptions

In my experience, one of the most critical mistakes we can make as consultants is to assume we know exactly what our clients are going through. I recall a time when I made this error, only to realize that my assumptions were far from the truth. It's vital to let clients express their own feelings and thoughts without our biases clouding their narratives.

2. The Art of Listening

Listening is an art that requires our full attention and empathy. I've found that actively typing out what I hear helps me retain information, a technique that can be especially helpful for those with ADHD. Remember, it's not our place to pry; respecting boundaries is just as important as being an attentive listener.

3. Aligning with Client Goals

Our role is to guide, not to dictate. Understanding our clients' goals, values, and priorities allows us to tailor our approach to their unique needs. Sometimes, this means being willing to turn away business if it's not in the client's best interest—a tough but necessary decision.

4. Compassion and Connection

Showing compassion and empathy isn't just about being kind; it's about connecting with clients on a personal level. Sharing our own experiences can demonstrate empathy and help us reflect on our motivations, ultimately leading to stronger connections.

5. Respecting Parental Expertise

Never underestimate the expertise of parents when it comes to their children. They are the true specialists, and as consultants, we must keep an open mind and avoid the trap of thinking we know better.

A Personal Story of Faith and Professionalism

Beyond these principles, I want to share a deeply personal aspect of my life—my faith in God. For a long time, I struggled with how to incorporate my beliefs into my professional life, especially given the legal restrictions in schools where I previously worked. But after receiving encouraging feedback from clients, I realized the importance of being open about my faith.

A poignant moment came when a woman reached out to me with a message that I shouldn't be afraid to talk about God. This message arrived at a time when I was feeling particularly hesitant. It inspired me to embrace my beliefs and share stories about my faith and motherhood on my podcast.

I had planned an episode about my faith but had shelved the idea. However, after the woman's message, I felt compelled to produce the episode that very day. It was an act of obedience, and while I didn't know if it made a difference to anyone else, it was a fulfilling experience for me.

An Invitation to Connect and Grow Together

I'm always eager to hear from you—your experiences, your feedback, and your stories. Feel free to reach out to me, and let's continue this conversation. Also, don't forget to follow me on Instagram for more updates and to access the upcoming free resource "Cash Flow on Cruise Control in Five Steps."

Thank you for spending your time with me. If you've found value in our time together, please consider leaving a review and subscribing to the podcast. Until next time, take care and remember to embrace your truth, share your experiences, and always lead with empathy and authenticity. Farewell, and sweet slumber to all!

Check out the whole conversation below!