Supporting mission-driven leaders who want to go from surviving to thriving at work
I’m Eleanor Smith (she/her), Somatic Leadership Coach.
I help mission-driven leaders clarify priorities, remove barriers and build confidence to realize their career dreams.
For over 30 years, I’ve supported social sector and other leaders seeking positive social and environmental change.
I’ve served as a:
Foundation Grantmaker
Front-line Nonprofit Staff
Development Director
Board Member
Fundraising Consultant
Strategy & Evaluation Consultant
Workshop Trainer
Philanthropic Advisor
Founder & Lead Instructor of a University Nonprofit Management Certificate Program
Critical Support for Mission-driven Leaders
I hear from colleagues, students and clients that they are often overwhelmed, working beyond their capacity and racing against the clock. Despite growing attention, burnout is on the rise.
This has to change.
All of us committed to social change must remain healthy to ensure the work we do creates the changes we seek.
I’m on a mission to help you find the work you love and build a career of purpose and joy — one that does not require you to sacrifice your health
I’ve Been There
I’ve faced burnout twice. Each time, I was forced to pause and take stock. I reflected on the external forces encouraging me to overwork, and identified the ways my own attitudes and habits pushed me too far. Slowly I began to prioritize self-care. If I hadn’t learned those lessons and made big changes, I’m certain I wouldn’t have the joyful life and meaningful work I am deeply grateful for today.
Not sure if you’e on the road to burnout? Take my free short assessment to find out.
How Leadership Coaching Works
By listening carefully and asking questions to spark insight and build self-awareness, I will help you gain clarity on your deepest values and motivations, as well as what might be holding you back. Together, we’ll identify the work that’s most aligned with your true self and the strategies to move forward with confidence and clarity.
Is Leadership Coaching Right for You?
Professionals come to me for coaching when they are:
Stressed or bored with their job and wanting a change
New leaders seeking more confidence in their role
Experienced leaders wishing to tackle their growing edges
Seasoned leaders transitioning out of full-time jobs
Eager to advance their careers
I have received extensive training in coaching from the ICF-accredited Coaches Rising and Coach Training Alliance. I specialize in Transformative Somatic Coaching and Mindfulness Mentoring.
Core Values
I am curious, empathetic and eager to engage authentically with others and to listen and learn from them. I sometimes share relevant stories from my long career. Clients have said they appreciate my openness, compassion and sense of humor.
In life and in coaching, I am guided by the following values:
Care and Compassion
Honesty and Transparency
Commitment to Social Justice and Climate Advocacy
Respect
Kindness
Patience
Humility
The belief that clients ultimately know what’s best for them
A consummate learner, I read about and write regularly on trends in leadership and self-leadership, management and other social sector topics. See latest posts here.
LEADERSHIP WORKSHOPS & RETREATS
I lead practical, fun and informative sessions — either two hours, a half-day or a full day — on such topics as:
Learn Key Emotional Intelligence Skills to Manage and Lead Teams
Stop Burnout & Traumatic Stress Before It Stops You & Your Team
Gain Tools to Negotiate & Manage Up for Greater Job Satisfaction
Practice Actionable Ways to Stay Resourced in Today’s Workforce
I live in the San Francisco Bay Area with my husband and two sweet cats. I enjoy daily walks, hiking, birdwatching, kayaking, yoga, traveling and sharing and laughing with friends.
