Glance of the journey:
The moment I took my first breath, the odds of survival were not in my favor. I was born three months ahead of schedule, and doctors claimed at 26 weeks that I would not survive and had a slim chance of having an everyday life… “Boy, were they wrong?!” My name is Rachael Louis, a 40-year-old African American born in Bronx, New York, raised in Jamaica, and transferred to South Florida in 1990. I am blessed to have been married for 14 years now to one of the most caring, kind-hearted individuals with a whole lot of patience. We are blessed to have two healthy, amazing boys that keep us busy. I am the 4th out of ten children raised by a single mother in a domestic violence household, but my mother did what she could to provide for us through it all. Things took a dramatic turn at the age of 14 when I was forced to find my way in life because “I thought I was grown,” in my mother’s words. The transition was not easy as there were many days and nights when I questioned my existence and frequently asked why I was brought into this world with the odds stacked against me? I would ponder on what was my purpose, was there more to life than what keeps me up at night? How did you go from surviving to living? Little did I know my story was just a part of the puzzle that positively impacted people’s lives. I have worked hard throughout the years and overcame numerous obstacles. But by the grace of God, I was able to get to know Him better and build a stronger relationship with some fantastic lifelong friends.
Career Journey
My entire career journey has been centered around serving others. It makes sense as we are all called to be stewards. One of my life-changing moments was at my 2nd job as an assistant manager when a would-be robber robbed our local branch at gunpoint. I remember this as it was yesterday, hearing “STOP, STOP, or I will SHOOT you“. He did not know the shield of protection that was over my life. Thank you, GOD! I resign the following day after finishing my shift. Yes, with nothing but my faith in GOD, knowing he is my provider. The following 20 plus years were with one of the largest communication companies. I started as entry-level customer service, then to a business analyst, and most role as a sales supervisor has been an awarding journey. The last eight years were another one of those changing moments where I realized a higher calling in my life. Being able to coach employees toward their goals gave me this inner joy. Additionally, every time I conduct an interview and the applicant fails to make it to the second round, a part of me wishes I could have done more to help before the interview.
The Ultimate Breakthrough
I know you are wondering, with such a successful personal and professional life, everything is excellent. Don’t worry; my family felt the same way. Sadly, I struggled with my inner demons of anger, insecurities, anxiety, fears, and worries deep down inside. A couple of years ago, I experienced a mental meltdown. I was in a dark, scary place. A place that I never wanted to revisit. I met with my therapist, who diagnosed me with severe depression and anxiety due to my childhood trauma; with her guidance. I took the necessary steps to deal with those issues and figure out what I wanted to do with my life. It was then; I realized my purpose in life was to help others. That’s right! Everything I have gone through up to this point has been to help others
The Birth of H.O.P.E. Career Coaching
The name highlights my ultimate purpose, Helping Outstanding Professionals Excel in life. The last year has been one of the most positive, productive years of my life. I have connected with some of the most successful entrepreneurs that have positively impacted my life. This process has not been the easiest as I still work my full-time job and continue to perform my roles as a wife, mother, and friend. I obtained my Certified Professional Coaching certification at the World Coaching Institute and Christian Life Coach certification at Breakthrough Coaching and Leadership Academy. I have also received some fantastic mentorship from successful business owners and directors who helped pave the way for me to enter this industry. I am blessed to have people praying over my life and for me to start this business. I can honestly say that I am living proof that everything you go through in life is preparation for your ultimate purpose.