Jenny Wang
Jenny Wang tells us that, “I wear a few hats in the coaching world—I’m an executive, life, and wellness coach by partnering with multiple coaching companies. My specialty lies in guiding people towards outcomes that might seem elusive on their own. I’ve got this unique coaching approach that intertwines the physical, mental, lifestyle, nutrition, and professional aspects of life to empower individuals on their journey to fulfillment. Outside the coaching realm, you’ll find me recharging by spending quality time with my family and close friends. I’m also big on teaching Yoga, and I find real joy in helping young minds develop their leadership skills. It’s in these moments that I feel most connected and fulfilled.”
What were your initial years of growing up like? Tell us about your life before starting your corporate journey/venture/initiative.
I was born in a bustling city in urban China, surrounded by the beauty of mountains, lakes, and theme parks. My childhood was filled with love and support from my parents and relatives, and I’m thankful for the absence of any traumatic experiences. My dad was a teacher, and my mom, an accountant. They rarely uttered a negative word to me, yet, interestingly, I battled a lot of negative self-talk throughout my growing years—it’s almost like I was born with it. Growing up in Asia, where the atmosphere is inherently competitive, was all I knew until I moved to the States. Despite aiming for academic success and striving to outdo my peers, I constantly felt like I fell short, never quite measuring up. My journey led me to my first job as a high school English teacher in a prestigious high school. I recall that my one-month’s salary could just about cover a meal at a decent restaurant with friends. While I cherished my role as a teacher and adored my students, the inability to treat my friends to a proper dinner left me feeling somewhat humiliated, sparking a strong desire for change.
Every industry that is now a large-scale, top-notch business once started as a small idea in the minds of entrepreneurs. What was that idea or motivation that made you start your business /initiative? What motivated you within to say YES, go for it!”
I’m a practical dreamer. I never set out to become a coach, but the idea of it had been lingering in my mind for years, like a catchy tune that just won’t leave your head. The catalyst for this unexpected journey was a chance encounter at a networking event in 2007. There I was, casually chatting with a guy who introduced himself as a “life coach.” Little did I know that this brief encounter would set the wheels in motion. I can still vividly recall that moment, as if it happened yesterday. It was one of those serendipitous moments that nudge you towards a new path. At the time, I was working as an instructional designer at a private college, juggling my responsibilities to ensure my immigration status remained intact. The thought of pursuing my dream of becoming a coach seemed like a distant, uncertain prospect, clouded by self-doubt. But you know what they say about limiting beliefs, right? They’re meant to be shattered. Fast forward to 2013, and I met Myrna, an inspiring figure who walked into my life as my mentee in a corporate Toastmasters club. She radiated passion and purpose, igniting the embers of my long-forgotten dream. Then there was Paula, a colleague and friend, who kept prodding me with the same question: “Jenny, what’s holding you back?” Two incredible coaches had now entered my life, pushing me to break free from my self-imposed chains. Myrna and Paula believed in me, and I began to believe in myself. In 2015, I took the plunge and earned my first coaching certificate from ATD, marking the beginning of a transformative journey. I kept pursuing coaching education and obtained Professional Certified Coach in 2020 through International Coaching Federation (ICF). It turned out to be the best investment I ever made in myself.
Tell us something about your initiative or current role. What is it about, and what impact are you trying to make?
In my current role, I wear multiple hats, serving as an Executive Coach for a career service company and a life and wellness coach for a mental health company. It’s more than just a job for me; it’s a passion and a commitment to making a real impact in people’s lives. My mission is all about guiding individuals to become the best versions of themselves, unlocking potential and achieving goals that might have seemed out of reach on their own. It’s not just about the professional milestones; it’s about holistic well-being. Every day, I engage in meaningful conversations with my clients, delving into the core of their aspirations and challenges. It’s not a one-size-fits-all approach; it’s about crafting a unique journey for each individual. I believe in the power of these conversations, where insights are gained, perspectives are shifted, and transformative steps are taken. The impact I strive for extends beyond just career advancement; it’s about fostering personal growth, resilience, and a profound sense of well-being.
Your journey and your vision are very inspiring, but are there any achievements or accomplishments you would like to mention?
I appreciate your kind words about my journey and vision. While I may not tally achievements in the traditional sense, what truly fuels my passion are the heartfelt comments from clients like “that was the best meditation session I’ve ever had” or “I feel like a human again.” It’s not about accumulating accolades but creating moments of genuine impact. Knowing that I’ve touched someone’s life, even in a small way, is what keeps me energized.
Would you like to share with our young budding women entrepreneurs the change you would like to see in the world if given an opportunity?
Absolutely, I’d love to envision a change that would truly transform the landscape for young, budding women entrepreneurs. If I had the opportunity, I would advocate for a revolutionary shift in societal support—specifically, granting every mom a full three years’ worth of income to stay home and focus on raising a healthy baby. Raising a family is undeniably one of the most challenging roles, yet it often remains the most underappreciated. By providing this financial support, we acknowledge the invaluable contribution that mothers make to society by nurturing the next generation. It goes beyond monetary compensation; it’s a statement recognizing the profound impact of their dedication and hard work. This change isn’t just about financial assistance; it’s about acknowledging and honoring the critical role of motherhood. It’s an investment in the future, empowering women to navigate their entrepreneurial journeys with a stronger support system in place. By recognizing and valuing the responsibilities of motherhood, we pave the way for a more equitable world where women can pursue their entrepreneurial dreams without compromising on the essential and often overlooked role of being a parent.
Women are a growing force in the workplaces worldwide, standing shoulder to shoulder with their male counterparts. There are cracks in glass ceilings everywhere, with many women breaking through to carve out a space right at the top of the pyramid. What are your thoughts about women leadership today?
Research indicates that diverse teams make better decisions. Women often approach decision-making with a collaborative and inclusive mindset. A leadership team that includes women is more likely to consider a broader range of ideas, leading to increased creativity and better solutions. Women make up a significant portion of the consumer base, and having women in leadership positions ensures a better understanding of diverse customer needs. This can lead to more targeted and effective business strategies that resonate with a broader audience.
What would you want to say to our young women leaders/audience reading this?
To the incredible young women leaders reading this, I want to emphasize a few powerful truths:
Persist in Your Dreams:
Never relinquish your dreams. The path to success may have twists and turns, but your determination will be your guiding light. Embrace the challenges as opportunities to grow and evolve.
Embrace the Unknown with Curiosity:
Life’s most profound discoveries often lie in uncharted territory. Approach the unknown with curiosity rather than fear. Your willingness to explore new realms will unveil possibilities you never imagined.
Define Yourself Internally:
Your worth is not determined by external markers—jobs, friends, or houses. Dig deep into who you are at your core—your kindness, courage, accountability, and service. These internal values are the true essence of your identity and nobody can take those away from you.
Feel free to connect with me through LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/learningislife/