From Rugby Scrums to Boardrooms: Thriving with Thick Skin and Ballsy Coaching

I’m reminded of a particular occasion as I read comments about MasterChef judge Gregg Wallace. Ladies, if you’re going to work with successful men, you have to develop a thick skin. A few words don’t hurt anyone. Judge Gregg isn’t reported to have assaulted anyone. I’ve had to handle similar situations, including some harsh words. Deal with it, and move on. Don’t hold onto it forever; it’s not worth it.

Working as an Investment Banker in a high-testosterone environment, I once met a Director outside the office. He was discussing our work and remarked that I had “more balls on me than a Christmas tree. You really give those men a run for their money.”

I admit, I was a bit taken aback. Was it a compliment or an insult? Ah well, it doesn’t matter. There was no animosity, and I was just doing my job, not taking any nonsense from colleagues or clients. Now, I find it quite amusing. However, at the time, surviving in such a tough environment it felt like going to work was like joining a rugby scrum—extremely competitive, hard-hitting, with immense pressure to perform.

When the going gets tough, the tough get going, they say. That’s me. I don’t give up, don’t give in; I dig deep to find success. This is what I bring to my clients.

I’m not a tough, mannish woman. I simply stand my ground as a professional woman, work harder, and act professionally. It works. I’ve earned plenty of promotions by hustling for banking business and dealing firmly with unpleasant ‘events.’ My old boss from back then, and his wife, are still friends. We enjoy good whisky together and share good times.

Life is a challenge if you’re willing to live ‘full on,’ give it your all, and handle whatever comes your way. Challenges are there to learn from and to overcome. They make you stronger.

What I can do in coaching you is help put things in perspective, assist you in fighting back if needed, in both subtle and unsubtle ways, depending on what’s appropriate. I’ll help you invent new strategies to navigate around obstacles while keeping your eyes on the prize. My clients regain their power and come back stronger, ready to push forward from any stressful situation they wish to overcome.

Contact me for some ballsy executive coaching. If you need a lower-key approach, that’s good too.