MY STORY

Hi,  

I'd like to share a bit about my own transformation journey to give you insight into the experiences that shaped my coaching approach. From a young age, I fell in love with philosophy, seeking wisdom for a fulfilled and examined life. I started with Greek and Russian philosophers, but soon became fascinated by classical German and Roman thinkers. It felt as though Goethe, Schopenhauer, Nietzsche, and the Stoics were speaking directly to me, shaping my understanding of ethical living, true masculinity, and the importance of following one’s calling. Later, I expanded my favorites list to include Carl Jung, Erich Fromm, and Viktor Frankl.  

My interest in philosophy likely stemmed from growing up in a dysfunctional family, where otherwise good people made their home life unbearable. In my family system, my role was to support everyone and compensate for their shortcomings. Over time, this burden overwhelmed me, leading to the development of radical self-protection mechanisms. These helped me survive but deprived me of a real childhood and deeply influenced my adult life options.

My career path was far from ideal. Raised on the streets with little focus on education, I dropped out of middle school and worked factory shifts. However, I soon realized that despite my lack of formal education, my interests aligned with those of an intellectuals, and I needed to find my place in society. So, I returned to school to study computer science, seeing IT as my opportunity to build a future. It took me five years to land my first IT job, only to realize that machines weren’t my true passion—I wanted to lead people. Two years later, I secured my first managerial position and, from then on, led many teams with care and dedication. I worked both in Estonia and abroad, using my career as a platform for adventure, connecting with new people, and learning from great leaders.

At the time, I believed management was my calling, but people around me kept saying I was offering them something deeper than leadership and suggested I consider becoming a coach. Naturally, I laughed at the idea, thinking I needed a "real job." Ironically, a negative experience with an unethical coach sparked my interest in coaching. My manager at the time manipulated the company with endless intrigues, causing significant harm. Despite this, I learned how transformative coaching could be for individuals and organizations when done properly. So, I pursued further education, earning an MBA, and later became a PhD student at Estonia’s Business School. Simultaneously, I studied to become a coach and supervisor while healing old wounds through therapy.

The healing process was challenging. I had to dismantle the extreme defenses I built in childhood. Many times, it felt impossible, but I was determined to free myself from old protective roles and make space for healthier ones. Through years of hard work, I became more liberated in my thoughts, feelings, and actions, ultimately finding balance in life. My therapist described my transformation as one of the most remarkable she had witnessed in her 30-year career and suggested I consider becoming a family therapist. While I work with families indirectly by supporting orphanage caregivers as a supervisor, my true passion lies in working with free spirits—from artists to entrepreneurs—those who dare to create their own reality.

Now, I help people uncover their true selves and live meaningful lives by following their callings. My commitment to growth and self-exploration continues, and I invite you to join me on this rewarding path.  

Truly yours,  

Dmitri