Welcome to my blog
A place to find help, insights and clarity
September Plans – Three things you need to know from The Balance Collective
“Come September, children return to school, grownups to work, and the brain to the head.” Roger Rosenblatt It's the last days of the summer holidays for us, so my time is split between the last moments of relaxation and desperately finding uniform that fits! I hope...
August Plans – Four things you need to know from The Balance Collective
August is the border between summer and autumn: it is the most beautiful month I know. - Tove Jansson I'm looking forward to some lovely birthday celebrations, a visit from my sibling, a family holiday and some downtime! Even with all of that planned, there are still...
The confidence toolkit from The Balance Collective
I've been writing articles for my blog for ten years. My first blog was published on the 19th August, 2015! By my calculations, that must be over 320 thousand words of reflections, tools, insights, and book reviews, with a and a sprinkling of guest blogs. Whilst...
Book Review: The Confidence Code by Katty Kay & Claire Shipman
The Confidence Code (the science and art of self-assurance – what women should know)* was added to my to-read list following a recommendation. I seem to have a natural resistance to books about “fixing” confidence for women. I think the hesitancy is from years of...
Seven easy ways to build your confidence
I've been speaking with many people about confidence recently. It arises in every aspect of life, both personal and professional. It's one that, since I began my time in personal development and skills, has always been there. Either people feel like they want or need...
The Balance Collective Ask Me Anything – What books can you recommend to help me with my confidence at work?
It won't surprise you to learn that I LOVE to recommend a book or two. It happens quite naturally in many of my conversations. When I’m working with clients, once I establish they also like to read, the recommendations come thick and fast, often based on the topics we...
Book Review: On our best behaviour (the price women pay to be good) by Elise Loehnen
I like reading books that shake up my perspective, make me feel uncomfortable and push me to question my reactions. "On our best behaviour (the price women pay to be good)” by Elise Loehnen did all of that. Today, I want to give my thoughts on it and share some of the...
The four “boundary” blogs from 2025 you NEED to read
I don't think I will ever run out of topics to discuss regarding boundaries and balance; I can't encourage people and places to create a career to enjoy, without encouraging everyone to think about the links between work and wellbeing. It cannot be, and must never be,...
Why it is OK to be unapologetic when setting boundaries.
I know how it feels. You look around, and it seems like everyone has "it". The ability to carve out time for themselves, to have a business or a job that energises them, and relationship dynamics that just work. You may be desperate for the same but have decades of an...
The Balance Collective Ask Me Anything – How can I overcome the discomfort I feel about asserting myself?
How often are we told just to say what we need? We all wish it could be that easy! Reality is much more complicated and layered by real and imagined challenges, which can lead to avoidance and overwhelm. Today, I want to discuss how you can overcome discomfort when...
The Balance Collective Ask Me Anything – “What is the best way to speak to my partner about the mental load I carry?”
This month, I wanted to use the AMA to have a conversation. I'm no longer gatekeeping this topic or my advice. When reflecting on the discussions I've been having with clients returning to work, seeking better balance, applying for a new role, or developing their...
The power of community for mental wellbeing
Community. What does that word mean to you? For me, it's about being with people where I feel I belong, having a shared interest or purpose, and having a chance to support and share. While I remain the constant, the people within these communities change, and their...
About
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.
Isn't it time to have career to enjoy not endure?
FIND OUT MORE
proudly supported by
