Joanna Stokes

Joanna Stokes

  • Joined: 6 May 2025
  • Articles: 67

How to make a meaningful career transition

How to make a meaningful career transition. Image of sign showing this way, that way and go back in different directions

Feeling stuck in your job? It might be time to move – but not without a plan.

I’ve made three big career changes over the years – each one intentional, not impulsive. From hospitality to teaching, from leadership in education to running my own coaching business. Every shift was led by a mix of gut instinct and clear thinking.

In this article, I share how to spot the signs that it’s time to move on, how to figure out what you actually want next, and how to explore new paths without diving in head first.

If you’re feeling bored, unchallenged or ready for a new lifestyle, this one’s for you.

How to take great selfies!

How to take great selfies; smart phone with white blank screen with tripod

I used to avoid the camera at all costs. Selfies felt awkward and unnatural, and I’d usually delete them straight away. But running your own business means being seen—so I signed up for the Slay My Selfies course. Now I carry a tripod in my bag, know how to use lighting and composition, and most importantly, I feel like I can show up as myself. It’s practical, confidence-boosting and well worth it. Here's what I learnt...

When Your Mantras Backfire

"Don't deny yourself the things that make you happy."
This has been my life mantra for years, the wisdom I share with clients daily. It guided me to build my coaching business, find love, and transform my lifestyle. But when my coach turned this philosophy back on me with one simple question, I realised my own mantra was sabotaging me in ways I never expected.
Despite having all the knowledge and experience to maintain a healthy lifestyle, I kept finding myself three chocolate hob nobs deep before I even realised what was happening. The irony? My rebellious voice was using my own empowering message against me.
Here's how I discovered that even our most powerful mantras need context, and what happened when I finally learned to reframe mine...

Managing Change: Why it’s not just about the “Yes!”

Change management. Light bulb shape with describing words for coaching. Inspiring exciting incredible change empowering resilience transformational

Why do some people thrive on change while others resist it?

I used to wonder that too. I was the one cheering when restructures were announced – energised by new beginnings and fresh challenges. But not everyone shared my enthusiasm, and I didn’t get it... until I came across the John Fisher Transition Curve. Suddenly it all made sense.

In this post, I share how learning about different responses to change – through tools like the Transition Curve and DiSC – transformed the way I lead, communicate, and support others. If you’ve ever felt frustrated during times of change (or been told you’re moving too fast), this might give you a fresh perspective.

Bringing DISC to Life at Bradford College

" An interactive and thought provoking session" said Furkan Uddin, Head of Professional and Leisure and HE teams at Bradford College. A bespoke session using LEGO as a hands-on way to explore DISC personality profiles. We focused on how to communicate more effectively in diverse teams.

How I took control of my finances with the Rebel Finance School

How I took control of my finances. Image shows a pile of coins depicting money

For years, I had a goal to sort out my finances and build real financial freedom, but it always felt just out of reach. That changed this year after completing the Rebel Finance School. From taking my first business profit to planning for a flexible, travel-friendly future, I’ve finally got a handle on money - and it feels good. In this blog, I share what worked, what changed, and how you might benefit too.

From Body Coach success to Zoe Science & Nutrition transformation:

Body Coach and Zoe Science and nutrition. Image shows healthy breakfasts of avocados, fruit, yoghurt and nuts

In September 2023, I realised something had shifted. I’d gained 3 kg and my waist had crept back to its pre-Body Coach size. Despite sticking with workouts and eating well, my jeans no longer fit, and my energy had taken a nosedive. At 53, I suspected hormones were playing their part, and I needed to understand what was going on.

That’s when I turned to Zoe Science and Nutrition. What followed was a four-month journey of change - tweaking my meals, discovering new favourites (hello, almonds), and learning that what worked in 2021 no longer worked for me now. The results? Better sleep, a calm gut, and jeans that zip up again. I’m not chasing a number on the scales, I’m feeding my body in a way that actually works.

This isn’t an ad. It’s just what happened when Joe met Zoe in my kitchen. And it changed everything.

Does career coaching work?

Does career coachign work? Crossroads sign showing different directions of career, change, growth

I wrote this article for the Life Coach Directory. It covers how career coaching can help you move forward if you're feeling stuck, uncertain or unfulfilled in your work. From identifying your strengths to exploring new career paths, it explains six practical ways a career coach can support your next steps.

Coach or mentor?

Are you a coach or a mentor in the workplace? If you’re unsure, you’re not alone. I wrote this article for the Life Coach Directory. It explains the key differences between coaching and mentoring, helping you work out which type…