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About Paula Jilanis and Willow Creek Coaching

From a young age, I‘ve been drawn to the profound act of helping others find their way.  Growing up within the Catholic tradition, I found solace in the rituals that connected me to the Divine.  Yet that sense of connection was often fleeting.  The teachings of my Catholic grade school left me with the impression that I was not enough – a sentiment that I internalized without question.  Does this feel familiar?

Perfectionism seemed to define the world around me.  Any misstep felt like a personal defeat, causing inner turmoil that could sometimes escalate to paralyzing anxiety.  I recall an audition where my nervousness prevented me from even finding the starting note.  I missed out on an opportunity to share my love of singing because I was consumed by the pursuit of perfection.  Have you experienced anything like this?

In the past, I prioritized others’ opinions over my own.  I often struggled to find and express my true voice.  I became paralyzed by my past choices, adopting the mindset that it was better to exclude or withdraw myself from a situation rather than speak up for myself, afraid I might make another person angry. Do you feel yourself resonating with this?

“You either walk inside your story and own it, or you stand outside your story and hustle for your worthiness.”

– Brené Brown

Paula Jilanis speaking

Through a journey of self-discovery, various choices and opportunities, I’ve come to understand that my life and choices are mine.  The opinions of others are just that – opinions.  Rather than allowing let them dictate my path, I now determine my direction and choices. Do you sometimes struggle with speaking up for yourself or question whether what you are doing is truly what you want to do?

Today, through transformative experiences and sessions with talk therapists and bodyworkers, I’ve gained a clearer sense of who I am and the contributions I have to make to the world.  I am doing the work.  I have firsthand experience of having others walk with me for a while to offer support and guidance.   If you are or want to start on a new path, feel stuck, or just feel like you want to get some perspective, I invite you to join me for a conversation to explore the possibility of embarking on a journey together.

Meet Paula Jilanis – Life Coach and Holistic Practitioner

Paula Jilanis brings over 30 years of expertise in wellness, spirituality, and holistic health to her role as a compassionate and dedicated life coach.  With a background in psychology and religious studies from College of Notre Dame, and a Master’s in Applied Healing Arts from Tai Sophia Institute, Paula has cultivated a deep understanding of the human experience.  She understands the need to have someone walk with you while you are working to find your way.

As a Licensed Massage Therapist and Reiki Master/Teacher, Paula has honed her bodywork skills, integrating them into her coaching practice to provide an holistic approach to well-being.  Her expertise includes creating and leading workshops, seminars, and retreats focused on self-awareness and personal growth.

She has also been trained as a life coach under Doug Silsbee through the Presence Based Coaching. This approach to coaching integrates mind, body, and spirit with neurobiology and other sciences.

Paula is the author of the book “A Guide to Creating Your Wellness Center”, a testament to her commitment to creating spaces that nurture healing.  With a heart-centered approach, she helps clients navigate challenges, gain clarity, and embrace change.

“Perfectionism is a lost cause. Focus your energy on being the best you can be.”

– Domonique Bertolucci