The Origin of me or The Job

I founded MOTJ out of a deep personal journey and a passion for helping others navigate their professional and personal lives. My path to establishing this coaching business was shaped by several key experiences and realizations:

Educational Background and Professional Curiosity
My career in project management, organizational change management, and leadership development sparked a curiosity about why some people thrive in their jobs while others do not. This inspired me to earn a Master's Degree in Adult Education and Human Development from George Washington University. This curiosity also drove me to explore various personality assessments, achieve several certifications, and dedicate countless hours to research.

Personal Struggles and Self-Discovery
I faced significant personal challenges, including diagnoses of ADHD, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Major Depressive Disorder, and OCD, along with managing a chronic illness. I also dealt with internalized homophobia and the negative stereotypes associated with being Black, which led me to feel broken and unworthy. I lived a small, apologetic life overshadowed by shame and stigma.

Therapeutic Breakthrough
A turning point came when my therapist helped me recognize that there was nothing inherently wrong with me, only there was a belief that something was wrong with me. This realization allowed me to see my unique experiences and challenges as potential sources of inspiration for others. It encouraged me to rebuild my life the way I wanted and not use the expectations of others as a barometer for my success and validation.

Desire to Help Others
Inspired by my own journey of self-acceptance and professional fulfillment, I pursued certification as an ADHD coach and wellness coach. I’m also enrolled in the Catholic University School of Social Services to become a psychotherapist, with a focus on providing culturally competent care, especially for LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities.

Founding Me or The Job
I founded MOTJ to help others tackle the question I once struggled with: "Is it me or the job?" My approach, "Tend, Mend, and Transcend," aims to tend to clients’ immediate issues, mend the parts of us that need care, and transcend each of our unique by using existing skills (and learning some new ones) to solve problems, and overcome obstacles.

A Journey of Resilience and Commitment
My transition from grappling with my identity as a Black, gay, neurodivergent man and caring for my mental, emotional, and physical health informs my approach as a coach – and soon as therapist. This process has allowed my desire to inspire this same resilience and dedication in you as you move forward to professional and personal fulfillment.