Welcome to my blog
A place to find help, insights and clarity
How to read a personal development book so the information sticks!
This month’s question is one I’ve been asked by many people, in many ways. I once asked myself this question when, several years ago, I stopped using the tried and tested habits and attempted to rely solely on my memory. The short result: it didn’t work! That...
How to feel more connected when you work remotely
There are so many benefits to working remotely, with no commute being a massive one! However, there is one issue that often gets overlooked. And that is the risk of loneliness. As this week is Loneliness Awareness Week, I thought the perfect time to invite us all to...
How calmism creates rest. Book Review: Calmism (8 habits for complete rest) by Dr Alexis Willett.
Despite the title, a career coach doesn’t just support you in your work. It’s about your life and how your job fits into that. Well, at least, that is how THIS career and return to work coach works! So, when I think about personal development books to support my...
How to support your career when you feel too busy
One of the common complaints people have about their careers is that they “don’t have the time to do anything about it!” Life gets in the way, and carving out space for personal development feels impossible. I get it! I can feel that way when I think about developing...
June Plans – Birthday Celebrations and a desire for calm!
“June is a time when new possibilities unfold, paving the way for personal growth and achievement.” – Sarah Addison Allen I’m now back at my desk after a wonderful half term, and ready for what looks like will be a fun-filled June! This includes a birthday...
Book Review: A Guide to Thriving by Jon Rosemberg
This month’s book review was one that I bought, based on the title only! Sometimes I’m very targeted with my choices; either recommendations from trusted people or reviews I’ve seen online. Other times, it’s something that caught my eye. I’ve been thinking a lot about...
How to best support your teen’s career choices, without taking over!
This month’s Ask Me Anything question is a little different to my usual themes, but especially important and timely. Right now, exams are being sat, and choices are being made. You may have young people in your life making life decisions, and you are wondering how to...
How to manage your boundaries when returning to work after illness
Returning to wor Returning to work after any period away deserves coaching support. However, when you have been away due to illness, there is an extra dynamic to consider. As a return-to-work coach, I work with clients looking for a positive transition back into their...
Resources and advice to support parental wellbeing (updated for 2026)
When I am working with a coaching client, it is rare that we only talk about one aspect of their life; we don’t just hyper-focus on their job! To create a career to enjoy, we assess where their work fits into life as a whole. During the coaching process, as they learn...
May Plans – A guide to thriving, more questions and shorter weeks
“Act as if what you do makes a difference. It does.” William James In a month of two, four-day workweeks (for many!), there is only one wish I have for you. That you get some R&R with those that matter and continue to create a career to enjoy! As always,...
Book Review: Futureproof (9 Rules for Humans in the Age of Automation) by Kevin Roose
In 2021, when this book was published, I hadn’t even given automation much thought. I was aware that it existed in the systems I used personally and professionally, but I was just about recovering from lockdown and the pandemic to think about it much more! However, as...
The Balance Collective Ask Me Anything: How to manage the pro AI chatter when you are sceptical?
Did you know that the adoption of Gen AI is happening faster than the adoption of the internet or the personal computer? You may feel like the conversations around AI, especially Generative AI, are happening around you; leaders, businesses, educational institutions...
Clara Wilcox is a straight talking, practical and experienced coach helping clients navigate the tricky waters of returning to work, career changes and professional development. The Balance Collective is a social enterprise focused on improving the lives of parents, by working together to build inner confidence and promote a healthy work/life balance.
