•Holding your feet to fire…too hot? In process of revitalizing your career, there’s plenty of research to be done: research into yourself – who you are now and what you want – and research into marketplace. A therapist would accompany you in researching yourself but would only indirectly participate in your market research. Homework and accountability are generally built into coaching, designed by you and your coach. Whether you find accountability motivating and focusing, or unwelcome pressure, should help inform your decision.

•Do you want an expert or a companion? A therapist will invite you to go deeply into issues that may be blocking or confusing you, and may draw on his or her expertise to challenge your definition of problem. A coach will invite you to co-create goals and design of coaching, and your stated agenda will be focus unless you decide to change it. Both therapist and coach will help you see what you can’t see, but you remain more explicitly in charge of coaching than you would of therapy.

If you come to conclusion that you want to look into psychotherapy, it’s advisable to look for word-of-mouth recommendations whenever possible. Another possibility is to consult your local Mental Health Association. Many people find it empowering to ask for sample visits with at least two therapists before making their decision. If you decide on coaching, be sure to inquire about training, in addition to experience, as you’re looking for a coach. The International Coaching Federation maintains a credential that assures client of a high level of both training and experience. And remember, nothing precludes doing therapy and coaching simultaneously. Some people find it very useful. Good luck on your quest! Nina Ham is an ICF-certified business and career coach and a licensed psychotherapist. Her company, Success from Inside Out, offers teleclasses and individual coaching for people who want to grow themselves as they grow their business or career. Visit her website at www.SuccessfromtheInsideOut.com or subscribe to her E-Letter: Nina@womenssuccesscoach.com

Some sources of strength to develop and keep are: To maintain positive thoughts at all times. Practice seeing yourself as strong and you will be strong. Seek God's guidance and be ready to accept experiences, ideas, and directions when they come to you.

If your life is extra hard for you, be honest with yourself and find out where trouble is.Are you making your life hard? There is always a reason when something in your life does or does not go well. This can be traced to what you've already created in your mind prior to when situation happens.

When faced with a troubling situation, take control of your thoughts--this influences your attitude. Don't ever let your mind control you. Choose healthy, spiritual, and positive thought patterns that will supply you with unshakable strength.

So create happy thoughts and your problems will be tiny ones.

Gerri D Smith, Publisher and host of an online Personal and Business Improvement network, tailored for women business owners and entrepreneurs. Visit: http://www.distinctivebusinesswomen.com Mail to: gerridsmith@msn.com