Chutney is a Community Engagement Manager by day and a Matchmaker & Life Coach by night

Name: Chutney Young

Hometown: Osceola, AR Go Seminoles

Daytime Job: Community Engagement Manager

Age: 35

Fun Fact: My name is an Indian spice and it’s a color

So tell me about your passion project and what led you to create something like this?

My latest assignment is being a certified professional relationship and personal development coach. Guiding clients on how to have healthy connections with other people. Topics such as self-awareness, learning communication styles, conflict management, identifying barriers to having healthy relationships, and more. I’ve always been a great active listener. I ask a lot of questions, I’m naturally curious. That always leads to awareness for the person I’m listening to, then I become the go-to person and I love it! Which inspired me to pursue this as a profession.

When did you know it was time to launch your project?

Before I became a relationship coach I hosted dating mixers and provided matchmaking services. I realized so many participants need better communication skills and some personal development. I had reservations about making some introductions because of the lack thereof. I was thinking I can’t introduce you to anybody at this point lol. I thought it’s time to offer some guidance on how to make connections before I hook up some of these people lol.

What has been the most fulfilling part of the journey to creating this service?

The most fulfilling part about my journey is building trust with people. I met this one young lady through my day job. The first time we met up, to discuss a professional partnership, one conversation led to another and the next thing you know she asked me to be her coach. Time after time I form these connections that have folks trustingly airing all their laundry. I found myself taking pride in being a confidant to so many.

How has this project not only helped others but helped you in the process?

Coaching brings a lot of clarity for the client and through guiding them through the process I discover answers for myself. I also realize how I need to be just as kind as I motivate them to be. I didn’t realize how critiquing or “judging” I could be not only with others but with myself. You know I hold high standards for the ways of life lol. I’m learning that you shouldn’t always question the “why”; it indicates that you’re making a presumption and that puts others on the defense or puts you into self-condemnation. I appreciate all this new profound clarity; it keeps us all growing and glowing!

What has been the most challenging part of this service?

The most challenging part has been not making my family and friends feel like they are being coached. I’m still trying to figure this part out, lol it comes so naturally that sometimes I don’t realize it. I start asking all these questions during our conversation and they know I’m in my zone. So yes, I have to reel myself in from time to time. I honestly think I’ve always asked a lot of questions, everyone else is just making it a big deal now that I’m a professional coach.

What advice would you give other women to take on a similar project such as this?

First, become in tune and centered with yourself. I’ve always had the natural-born talent of active listening and being an exhorter, i.e. a coach. It took me working jobs that weren’t worth my brainpower and being the go-to person on jobs, in my friendships and with my family to realize I deserve to be doing something that flows with my natural energy. I had a come to Jesus meeting with myself; what am I a natural at doing? how can I make a profession out of it? and who do I need to support me? I actually hired a life coach; I’ve been on this path ever since. Secondly, research, prepare and shoot your shots! Life always works out, unless you have a failure mindset. Last but not least, acknowledge God for direction and trust His divine setups. Just know some setups can be a closed-door, keeping trusting what you know.

How do you find the time for your passion project and your 9 to 5? And please share tips on how to juggle the two?

Mondays I schedule two sometimes three-hour meetings with myself. All the administrative and follow-up work for my clients I get done then. Tuesdays, Thursday evenings and Saturday mornings I have client sessions and free consultations. To be honest I don’t overdo “it”. Rest is important for my mental and physical health. I can’t function without it. This is not to say I don’t have to sacrifice my time here and there because I do have a full schedule but that I’ll rest when I’m dead mind frame it’s not my motto. To each it’s own but I believe in balance!

Do you recommend any books or resources to get started?

I recommend the following resources:

a. The book Emotional Intelligence by Daniel Goleman it offers great insight on knowing thyself and on emotional learning.

b. The book Fully You by Joel Malm it offers tools to conquer insecurities and how to move beyond hurts and limiting mental blocks.

c. The Bible, I believe it is inspired by God to bring truth, renewal, and healing to our minds within the proper context. Taken out of context it’s perceived as judging and legalistic. Nothing can separate us from the love of God, not even sin, it was paid for. The grace of God is sufficient for anybody! I strongly suggest connecting with God through His word.

Share tips on what keeps you going and motivated to keep this project afloat

I know there are people in my world who need what I have to offer. I’m a talent listener, a connector and I get pleasure from seeing people thrive and be happy. This is my assignment from God, the profession just calls it life coaching. I want to have great impact on every client that I coach. I truly believe I am a gift to the world, my world. I refuse to waste destiny’s time. I have the stuff to do in this life while I’m here on the earth. I’m going to give my clients all that I’ve got. I stay organized, I wake up early to set my mind with positive affirmations, I’ve chosen to have cleaner eating habits and drink plenty of water, I protect my energy and stress levels by guarding my conversations, I’m selective of what I watch on tv and who and what I listen to, I seek and provide understanding in my close relationships, and I get plenty of rest. I want to make a mark in the lives of the people I encounter; I have to be the truest, most whole and healthy me. That keeps me motivated to do and be just that!

Where can people go to find out more information about your passion?

Visit my website for a free consultation, speaking engagement and upcoming events at www.coachchutney.com