The Pursuit of Balance
The Pursuit of Balance
Thriving Amidst Life's Demands
My penchant for writing about people I’ve worked with comes from a great admiration of their accomplishments. I am naturally drawn to those who have an innate desire for personal and professional development, always striving to take on new challenges. Even more so, I am compelled by those who can find balance at the crossroads of personal ambition and life’s demands.
Ashley Copley is one such person. I worked with Ashley at Stanford Healthcare for a number of years. He epitomized the soul and compassion of hospitality. I witnessed first hand how he had a transformative effect on those around him.
I recall how Ashley had a remarkable knack for appearing just when I needed him most. His unwavering support, uplifting spirit, and willingness to lend a helping hand were truly magical. He went above and beyond to cultivate strong relationships with vendors, notably by establishing connections with local farmers. His efforts were focused on securing the finest produce available within a hundred-mile radius. I received an abundance of positive messages from customers who praised his customer-first approach.
Ashley embarked on a remarkable journey spanning from Mumbai, Nepal, to Extended Stay America (Herndon, VA), Homestead Reston, (Reston, VA), Extended Stay America (San Jose, CA), Stanford Healthcare (Palo Alto, CA), and Facilities Manager at Meta, formerly Facebook.
And now at a new crossroad, Ashley reset his life’s balance via a new venture: Life + Health Coach and Catalyst for Copley Trifecta Coaching.
Role Reversal
During “the pandemic”, Ashley found himself juggling his responsibilities as a parent to his twins. Like many others during that time, he made the transition to working from home. Ashley began consulting at TrustLab, a tech firm, where he utilized his expertise and skills.
Additionally, he undertook an entrepreneurial adventure by setting up a rental properties venture. Recognizing the growing demand in the real estate market, Ashley saw an opportunity to leverage his knowledge and resources.
This marked a significant role reversal for Ashley, as he transitioned from a background in hospitality to becoming a successful entrepreneur in multiple ventures.
Balance Comes with Change
“Exhaustion gnawed at my soul. My twins left me yearning for a sliver of time, a drop of energy for myself. Unhealthy meals fueled my days, sleep remained elusive, and exercise felt like a distant dream. My reflection mirrored internal chaos. I knew I needed change, but where to begin?”
Finding himself in an overwhelming state of exhaustion, Ashley Copley allowed himself to accept and acknowledge his feelings without judgement or self-criticism, the first step toward healing.
“Enter my Life Coach and Nutritionist, who whispered words of transformation, a symphony of simple yet potent changes. Rise early, sleep soundly, embrace water as my new elixir, nourish my body with real food, and move my limbs in ways they were never meant to move.”
Ashley was slowly identifying his core values and priorities in life. This learning enthusiast, even in his state of half awareness had the desire to achieve stability and fulfillment.
He was waking up to the fact that self-care had to become a non-negotiable part of his routine.
“I embarked on a dance with myself, bidding farewell to late nights, and embracing early slumber. More water and no sugary temptations and processed ghosts. Home-cooked meals became my canvas, vibrant fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Visit to the gym, a tapestry of cardio and strength woven into my routine.”
The transformation was far from effortless. Rather it was a slow painful process. Finding equilibrium takes time.
Ashley’s wisdom emerged, and he gradually set out on a passage of seeking stimulus, initiating healthy boundaries, embodying mindfulness, and welcoming support from trusted friends, family, and professionals.
“It was a slow steady climb, each step a testament to my resolve. Forty-nine pounds melted away, cholesterol numbers whispered sweet nothings, and my energy soared. But the most profound change bloomed within. Patience blossomed where stress once choked, and a radiant well-being pulsed through my veins.”
Ashley continued to set realistic goals by breaking down goals into smaller, achievable milestones, and allowed himself to celebrate his progress along the way with his family and close friends. Furthermore, he practiced time management and self-reflection to help prevent stress as well as to promote a better balance between work, personal life, and self-care.
“The ripples of my journey reached my family. My wife and kids inspired by my transformation, embraced healthier choices. We moved together, laughed louder, and felt a collective surge of energy. Happiness, a warm flame flickered brighter, fueled by our shared commitment to well-being.”
Calmness Journey
“It wasn’t about shedding pounds but rather shedding stress and ultimately cultivating a sanctuary within. The chaos of twin toddlers and daily demands had me drowning in anxiety. I refused to be swept away. I craved a life that hummed with peace, not buzzed with frenzy.”
Clearly, deep within him, there was a yearning for a life that resonated with serenity, instead of being consumed by constant commotion.
“I embarked on a mission to tame the inner storm. I built an anchor in the form of a structured routine. Exercise became my daily sunrise ritual, meditation my midday balm, and my family time was the sunset serenade that lulled my worries to sleep. I learned to let go, not just the clutter, but of things that strangled my joy. Every “No” to stress unfurled a petal of inner peace.”
Life is generally full of unexpected twists and turns and being adaptable allows us to navigate challenges without compromising our well-being.
A Beacon of Light
“But the magic didn’t stop with me. My journey became a lighthouse for others. Family members embraced healthier habits, friends found solace in my calm, and my words helped mend strained relationships. A friend, once lost in job hunting despair, rediscovered their spark with my encouragement. I witnessed the ripple – effect one person’s journey inspiring others, weaving a tapestry of being.
“This isn’t just my story, it’s my calling. I offer practical tools to navigate the path to health calmness and motivation. I am a listening ear for those wrestling their inner demons and a connector to resources that nourish body mind and soul. Three years ago, I finally took the leap enrolling as life coach. In the rigorous training honed my innate skills, and practicing with others ignited a passion I never knew I held. In 2023 I completed the program my heart brimming with the power to empower others!”
The courage to move forward comes from within, even in moments of exhaustion. It stems from a deep desire for change and a belief that you deserve better and more fulfilling life. As we prioritize self-care and listen to our calling, we will gradually rediscover our strength, resilience, and the courage to take the necessary steps towards healing and alignment with our true purpose.
Ashley propelled his personal growth journey and transitioned from mere survival to flourishing in life. He found balance by meeting his challenges head-on.
Ashley, can you describe the emotions you experienced when you secured your first client?
“A mixture of nervous excitement and anticipation coiled in my stomach. Months of dedicated studying, battling self-doubt, and diligently building my practice had all culminated in this pivotal moment. As I listened to my client articulating her aspirations for a healthier lifestyle and greater equilibrium, a thrill coursed through my veins.”
“It became evident that this wasn’t merely a job; it was an opportunity to become an active partner in her transformation journey. After scheduling our inaugural session, I hung up the phone and drew a dep breath, feeling the nervous knot dissipate and be replaced by an empowering surge of determined optimism. It was time for me to coach and make a meaningful impact.”
Success is not measured by what you accumulate in life, but by what you leave behind as a legacy. What is your legacy?
“I want to be known as a trusted and supportive partner; someone whom my clients can trust and confide in, comfortably sharing their thoughts and feelings. An expert in personal growth and development, a motivator and accountability partner as a catalyst for change.
“Ultimately, I want to be remembered as someone who can make a positive impact, helping people achieve their goals, overcome challenges, and live their best lives.”
Who is your Mentor?
“My father, my role model who taught me the importance of hard work, responsibility and taking pride in my work. My biggest supporter who taught me to always put family first. My wife and best friend, Yash who has always encouraged me to try new things and to reach my full potential.”
Tell me about gratitude and giving back?
“I am grateful for my mixed heritage. It has given me a unique perspective on the world, and it has allowed me to connect with people from all walks of life, which led me to take on life coaching. I began by getting certified with the Health Coach Institute and also working with Michael Legge, whose company Boethius brings the best out of you.”
“I derive great satisfaction from engaging in Pro Bono Coaching, where I dedicate a few hours each month to provide complimentary coaching services to individuals experiencing hardship.”
Embracing his newfound calling as Life Coach, Ashley will continue to touch the lives of others with his bespoke approach offering guidance and support with a heartfelt human touch. Thank you for sharing your story, Ashley!