Today we’d like to introduce you to Debra “Queen Cole.”
Hi Debra, “Queen Cole.” It’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for sharing your story with us – to start, maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers.
I am Debra Cole, better known as Queen Cole, a multifaceted solopreneur. An author, certified life coach, and the founder of The I AM Academy. An online community where women can candidly communicate, give, and get support from each other. In 2015, I became a divorcee after being married for 17 years. After about a year of healing, God put it on my heart to help women navigate life after divorce. I help women take charge of their happiness and navigate tricky situations like parenting with their ex, dating again, and learning about who they are solo. In 2020, I completed the Life Coaching Certificate Course from Udemy online. I am enrolled at eCornell pursuing a Certificate in Women’s Entrepreneurship from Cornell University. I am embracing that time is finite! So, I focus on the unique contributions to the world that only I can make and help others do the same. “Stop waiting for Friday, for Summer, for someone to fall in love with you, for life. Happiness is achieved when you stop waiting for it and make the most of the moment you are in now.”
Please talk to us about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned. Looking back, has it been easy or smooth in retrospect?
One area I struggled with was asking for help. I want to encourage the readers that asking for help doesn’t mean you have failed, nor is it a sign of weakness. It’s a sign of strength. We all go through tough times but don’t have to go through them alone. After the divorce, I had to adjust to a new way of living and thinking. Change can be as exciting as it is terrifying. However, I could cope and adjust with grace and gratitude with the right mindset and support.
We’re often reluctant to ask for help because of uncertainty, risk of rejection, potential for diminished status, and relinquishment of authority. But with support from others, it’s virtually possible to advance in most things. Studies show that most people are willing to lend a hand if you ask. In 2024, I’ll be launching The Gatekeepers Network. Gatekeeping is such an unnecessary part of our culture. There is no point in discovering something and having no one to share it with. The Gatekeepers Network will foster a culture of cooperation where people learn from one another and work together to find solutions.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
As a certified Life Coach, I specialize in being an Accountability Partner. An Accountability Partner monitors your progress toward goals over an extended period and recommends improved working practices if you need to progress more slowly. I also provide moral and practical support during stressful periods to help clients quickly identify solutions to obstacles. I am inspired by seeing women actively indulge in self-care daily, sharing people’s journeys and helping them achieve what matters most to them. The most rewarding aspect of being an Accountability Partner is the progress I see clients achieve. It warms my heart when they make self-care a priority and a part of their everyday lives. Another rewarding aspect is when women join the I AM Academy without worrying about “sounding good” or “appearing brave.” They show up and be honest about what’s going on because it’s a safe space for them to speak freely and candidly.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
An important lesson that I have learned is that “Why” is more important than “how.” When you are clear on “why” you can and will figure out “how”. I use to be so focused on the details of “how” I would get analysis paralysis, and projects would be delayed. Once, I focused on my “why” I gained a more refined perspective.
Pricing:
- $75 an hour for biweekly sessions
- mention the article and receive 15% off the first session
Contact Info:
- Website: linktr.ee/IAmAcademy22
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/915611879094072/
- Youtube: @queencole2050
