Two Years of Harjo Leadership: From Toddler Steps to Ultra-Marathons

In toddler years, we’d just be learning to walk. In business years, we’re running ultra-marathons—literally.

That feels about right for Harjo Leadership turning two.

Personal Lessons: Business is an Ultra-Marathon

Running ultras has taught me the same lessons as running a business:

1. Keep going when it gets tough.

2. Be flexible—circumstances will change.

3. Celebrate the small milestones along the way.

This past year, I read a line that stuck with me: “Happiness cannot be achieved in your comfort zone.” At first, I resisted that idea. But I’ve realized it’s true. Real happiness comes from doing the work—pushing our limits, stretching relationships, and taking action toward the life we want.

These last couple of years have been all about action—sometimes too much action, bordering on overwhelm. Early mornings on the trail. Full days planning, operating, and growing Harjo Leadership. Late nights grinding out coursework to finally earn my master’s degree. Action has been the heartbeat of building not just the life I want, but also empowering my clients to do the same.

Reflections: A Decade in the Making

Harjo Leadership didn’t truly start two years ago—it started 10 years ago with a simple proposal to attend a coaching program. The idea was to sharpen my coaching skills and help leaders grow.

That seed grew into my first attempt at a business—Pathfinder Coaching (an ironic name, considering I wasn’t sure I’d found my own path). I did the checklist: built a website, printed business cards, registered the business. And then… nothing. No plan. No path forward.

But the idea of helping people achieve their goals never left me. Fast forward to 2023, when I faced a layoff after a 20-year career. It was decision time: find another job or finally launch my business. I jumped in. Website live. Coaching certification finished. Ready for clients.

Crickets. My first punch in the face.

That first year felt like a toddler falling again and again. A few clients trickled in, but I realized I needed help. I doubled down on learning marketing, branding, and most importantly, building relationships. Year two brought momentum: blogs, posts, networking, new clients, and real wins. Still lots of stumbles, but like running ultras, I kept executing the plan. And that consistency made all the difference.

Looking Ahead: Year Three

What does year three hold? Probably more punches in the face. Probably more tripping over rocks. But also—more growth, more lessons, and most importantly, more opportunities to serve amazing clients.Every client’s story, goal, and success renews my ‘why.’ In year three, I’m committed to expanding access to coaching, especially in underrepresented communities, while continuing to deliver the tools and strategies leaders need to thrive.

Predictions for Coaching & Professional Development

Looking at the year ahead, here are three trends I believe will shape the space:

1. Human-to-Human Experiences Will Matter More

   AI will continue to expand into coaching, but real growth happens through human connection. Coaching is about asking deeper questions, noticing cues, and sparking critical thought—things technology can’t fully replicate.

2. Broader Access and Inclusion

   Coaching used to be reserved for executives. Now, thanks to virtual coaching and digital tools, it’s reaching every level of the organization. This access will only grow in 2025.

3. Power Skills Will Lead

   Emotional intelligence, cultural awareness, and leadership agility are more in demand than ever. Coaching is shifting from ‘fixing problems’ to building resilience, preventing burnout, and preparing leaders to thrive in uncertain times.

   
   

Final Thought

Two years in, Harjo Leadership still feels like a toddler learning to walk—but also like a runner pushing through the last miles of an ultra-marathon. Messy. Hard. Beautiful. Worth it.Here’s to more growth, more lessons, and more people stepping into careers and professional growth they’re proud of.

Thank you for being part of this journey.

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