Cold Brew, Clarity, and Coaching: A Much-Needed Comback Blog

Well, hello there, blog! It’s been… a minute. Okay, more like a whole season of life. You ever feel like you need to step away from something just to remember why you loved it in the first place? Or take a breather so you can figure out what the heck you’re even doing? Yeah, same. That’s where I’ve been — doing a little soul-searching, a lot of studying, and probably way too much chauffeuring - (there's been some overthinking thrown in there too).

Let’s catch up, shall we?

I’m currently in the thick of a Master of Social Work program (yes, back to school again — because apparently, I just love homework). I’m taking a course on addiction right now, and let me tell you, it’s powerful. It’s stretching my brain and my heart in equal measure, and I’m soaking it all in.

Meanwhile, on the home front, one of my “kids” graduated from high school (cue the tears and all the damn prep work it takes to send them off to college!), and all the teens are now working — which is awesome, frustrating, and hilarious all at once. If you’ve ever had a teenager come home from their first shift with a rant about “you have no idea .....” you know what I mean.

We’ve been knee-deep in summer chaos, filled with drop-offs, pick-ups, and endless tales from the workplace trenches. And me? I’ve been off work since June 20th — which sounds like a dream, until you find yourself wondering around the house for the fourth time or jumping at the opportunity to run errands and wondering if maybe you’re going a little stir crazy. My husband (bless his calm, coach-like heart) keeps reminding me to slow down and enjoy the downtime. But then again, he’s a coach too. They say stuff like that.

So here I am, awake at midnight (thanks, cold brew), reflecting on where The Inner Compass Coaching began and where it's going.

And here’s the thing: I still believe — deeply — in the value of coaching & health and wellness coaching. It’s not just for the burned-out parent, the struggling teen, or the midlife transitioner trying to figure out what’s next. It’s for everyone.

Why Health & Wellness Coaching Still Matters (Even at Midnight)

Stepping away reminded me why I started: to help people reconnect to themselves. To take a pause in this noisy, fast-paced world and say, “Wait, what do I want? How do I take care of myself, so I can show up better for others?”

Coaching gives people that space.

A few perks of health and wellness coaching:

• Helps you set meaningful, realistic goals — no more vague “I’ll start Monday” promises

• Encourages behavioral change that sticks (goodbye guilt spirals)

• Supports physical and mental wellness holistically

• Teaches you how to build habits that align with your actual life

• Gives you a nonjudgmental accountability partner (hi, that’s me!)

• Boosts confidence, motivation, and self-awareness

• Addresses stress, anxiety, and burnout before they bubble over

• Fosters a sense of empowerment and resilience

Whether you're 15 or 55, there's something powerful about having someone walk alongside you, help you reframe the negative self-talk, and remind you of your own strengths.

Sure, I may be taking classes about addiction now, but so much of what I’m learning overlaps with wellness coaching — especially when it comes to prevention and early intervention. Wouldn’t it be nice if we didn’t have to wait until things fall apart to start healing?

Unfortunately, the reality is, insurance companies don’t exactly throw money at preventative care. But that doesn’t mean it isn’t vital. In fact, it’s everything.

So, this is me — coming back to the blog, to my voice, and to the mission of The Inner Compass Coaching. Because while I may be tired and caffeinated at odd hours, I’m also inspired, grounded, and ready to help others find their way again too.

Thanks for sticking around. Let’s get back to it — together.

With a full heart (and now finally getting drowsy),

💛 Ashlee