Higher Vibes Coaching Blog
Hot Seat Therapy and 360° Reviews Are the Same Bullsh*t
Too many internal coaches and managers still measure growth by how well you conform to other people’s expectations—especially if you’re neurodivergent, BIPOC, queer, or disabled. The result? More masking. More burnout. Less truth. This post offers a radical reframe of feedback. We’ll also dig into why the beloved 360° review process often mirrors a shady group therapy tactic called hot seat therapy—and how both can go off the rails without care, consent, and context.
BIPOC Managers: Lead Without Losing Yourself
Being a BIPOC manager means balancing leadership, mentorship, and unspoken expectations—often at the expense of your well-being. Here, we break down the unique challenges, burnout risks, and systemic barriers BIPOC leaders navigate, backed by data, with actionable insights on how to lead without sacrificing yourself.
ADHD vs. Autism: Key Differences, Overlapping Traits, and How to Get the Right Diagnosis
ADHD and autism share traits like masking, sensory overload, and social exhaustion, but they are distinct neurotypes (even though there is often an overlap). Learn how to tell the difference, why ADHDers may seem autistic, and how to get an accurate diagnosis.
From Invisible to Unstoppable: How to Be a Thought Leader Without Masking
Struggling to gain visibility despite being an expert in her field, Tara felt shut out on social media. This case study reveals how coaching helped her transform her approach, build influence on her own terms, and land industry recognition—without chasing validation. It also includes tips to help you reframe feeling too different as an advantage, not a liability.
Why So Many Fake Executive Coaches?
Why is “Executive Coach” the hottest (and most overused) title in coaching? This bold take calls out the hype, reveals why real senior-level business experience matters, and offers better title alternatives to build trust—and attract the right clients.
ICF Ethics & Identity in Coaching: Why “I Can Coach Anyone” Is a Red Flag
Some coaches dismiss identity in coaching, violating ICF ethics and DEIB principles while gaslighting clients and peers. Learn why erasing identity isn’t neutrality—it’s unethical coaching that fails to create truly inclusive spaces.
The Myth of “I Can Coach Anyone”: How Lily Zheng’s FAIR Framework Elevates Coaching
Discover why the belief that “I can coach anyone” can be harmful to clients and the coaching profession in this eye-opening case study. Learn how Lily Zheng’s FAIR Framework (Fairness, Access, Inclusion, and Representation) can help coaches develop cultural competence and create truly equitable, client-centered coaching experiences.
The Dark Side of Coaching: Women Gatekeeping Women
Coaching promotes growth and inclusion, but behind the scenes, competition and quiet gatekeeping often tell a different story—especially for women of color. This is how a seasoned executive-turned-coach navigated subtle but persistent challenges from a fellow coach determined to keep control of the conversation.
Coaching Techniques for Finance Professionals
Finance professionals face relentless pressure, burnout, and identity suppression in high-stakes roles. This guide explores how specialized coaching can transform careers by addressing burnout, enhancing decision-making, and empowering professionals with tailored strategies for investment banking, trading, hedge funds, and more—unlocking sustainable success through resilience, clarity, and authenticity.
Signs of a Fixed Mindset: How It Sneaks Up and Holds You Back
A fixed mindset isn’t just about resisting change—it’s sneaky. It disguises itself as logic, experience, and confidence, making you believe the problem isn’t you, but everyone else. If you consider yourself open-minded yet feel frustrated by constant change, this guide will help you recognize the hidden signs of a fixed mindset and how to shift toward growth.
How to Shut Down Unsolicited Advice and Micromanagement with Confidence
Some people believe they have the right to tell others what to do, but their need for control doesn’t mean you have to give in. Learn how to recognize and respond to unsolicited advice and micromanagement with direct, confident strategies that help you reclaim your autonomy and set clear boundaries—without unnecessary conflict.
Trauma-Informed Coaching: Language Matters
Effective coaching and leadership create a space of safety, trust, and empowerment—not pressure, dismissal, or forced healing. Certain phrases, even when well-intended, can come across as invalidating, triggering, or disempowering. This guide breaks down what NOT to say in coaching or leadership—and what to say instead to foster genuine growth, support, and confidence.
Performance Coaching: A Perspective for Coaches & Clients
Performance coaching helps high-functioning professionals uncover their core motivations, break limiting patterns, and achieve sustainable success. The best coaching goes beyond surface-level strategies—it embraces identity-affirming, trauma-informed practices that align with a client’s whole self, creating deeper, lasting transformation.
Oh S**t, I’m Coaching a Coach or Therapist (AKA How to Support High-Expertise Clients)
Don’t fret, my pet! Coaching a coach or therapist comes with unique challenges—after all, they already know the tools and techniques! This guide explores how to navigate power dynamics, build trust, and provide real value when working with high-expertise clients, so you can confidently support those who are used to being the expert.
Personality Tests: A Guide for Neurodivergent Thinkers
Personality tests can feel overwhelming, but they don’t have to be. This guide breaks down how different personality assessments work together and how they can be powerful tools for self-understanding—especially for those navigating ADHD or ASD. Learn how to use these insights to make life easier, improve decision-making, and embrace your strengths.
Coaching ADHD Clients in the Workplace: Disclosure, Accommodations, and Advocacy
Coaches, learn how to support ADHD clients as they navigate workplace challenges, from disclosure decisions to advocating for accommodations and overcoming internalized stigma. This guide includes practical tools and resources to empower both clients and coaches, helping ADHD professionals thrive in their careers while fostering a more inclusive workplace.
Workplace Accommodations for Neurodivergent Employees: Advocacy Without Disclosure
Neurodivergent employees often work with coaches to navigate workplace accommodations, but formal disclosure can feel daunting—or unnecessary. Instead of relying on disclosure, it’s essential to identify personal challenges and proactively collaborate with teams to create a more supportive and inclusive work environment. This guide explores how to advocate for your needs, request accommodations, and foster understanding—without disclosing more than you’re comfortable with.
The Future of Work: Embracing Neurodivergent Thinkers in the Age of AI
Neurodivergent thinkers have the power to reshape workspaces and drive innovation, especially as we enter the AI era. This essay blends personal experience with broader insights on how embracing neurodiversity benefits both individuals and organizations. Discover actionable steps for managers and businesses to foster an inclusive workplace that enhances creativity, problem-solving, and long-term success.
The Lasting Impact of Domestic Abuse: How It Affects Survivors at Work and Beyond
The impact of domestic abuse is profound, reverberating across many lives. It affects survivors' presence and ability to advocate for themselves. At work, it undermines their relationships, performance, and career outlook. Survivors often feel haunted by their abusers, who creep into all aspects of their lives, like unrelenting zombies. Read this—it could change lives, perhaps even your own.