SHIFT-IT Visual Coaching Retreats

I CONSIDER SHIFT-IT A TIMELESS TREASURE, A GIFT TO MYSELF.

“My goal is to become a Certified Visual Coach® and part of certification is to experience The SHIFT-IT Visual Coaching System® as an individual from the inside-out. Because I am a Process Professional, have coached for several years and regularly spend quality time on self-reflection, I didn’t expect any “new” information to emerge.

I was incorrect. Christina has created a process for deep, personal self-reflection while facilitating a safe space for an online community of kindred spirits to hold conversations that matter.

My greatest ah-ha dealt with ‘focusing’. You cannot desire something, predominantly focus on the absence of it; then expect to receive it. Yet, that was my re-occurring practice, in both my personal and professional life. Now when those thoughts come up, I immediately recognize the ensuing feelings; then stop and re-direct my thoughts to focus on what I do want and desire in my life.

Thanks to Christina’s work with the Law of Attraction, I also re-learned the concept of deliberate creation and the essence of allowing. I may think it but now know that I must also expect it by allowing it into my life. The ‘it’ being whatever I want/desire in my life.

I enjoyed working through the maps; some easier than others. The one that spoke to me most passionately was the Archeology of Beliefs. As I listened to the whispers of my ancestors, I could understand why, at times, I move through life with one foot on the brake and the other on the gas pedal. In today’s hectic, non-stop, microwave environment, I consider SHIFT-IT a timeless treasure, a gift to myself on the way to becoming my Next Self.”

Karen Gilliam, Ph.D.
Leadership & Organizational Change
Division Chief, Governmental Agency
Cleveland, Ohio, U.S.A.

I CONSIDER CHRISTINA ONE OF THE GREAT MENTORS IN MY LIFE

“The day I got word of my successful completion of Visual Coach Certification® I was working on a new chart for a client who comes annually for visual project updates. It’s great for them, and I love how much airplay the charts get in their work with various teams around the province.

On that significant day of completion, I got to compare three charts; one from 3 years ago, another from 2 years ago and then the current one (made on the heels of the last 13 months in SHIFT-IT Online, The Fundamentals of Interactive-Visuals and Visual Coach Certification). Comparing my charts was yet another powerful lesson in how good coaching can improve one’s work, and why I consider Christina Merkley one of the great mentors in my life.

While that’s about the improvement of technical skills, there’s also been an amazing shift in me as a person too. I think the word that comes to mind most about this program for me is “trust.” Becoming a Visual Coach with individuals was a leap for me after years of co-facilitating groups in various kinds of team planning processes. I had worked with individuals with disabilities using the PATH Process, however, I was now trusted to add the SHIFT-IT tools to my toolkit too.

I made my way through the base training part of the program then progressed to working with clients: suddenly there was this one person (my first official visual coaching client); hopeful, daunted, nervous, wondering, and trusting to be coached, by me. At that moment (once I remembered to breathe) I recalled how Christina had told me the truth even when it was hard to hear, and also when she told me what she liked about what I had done and how I had improved – she asked me to try something different, in my graphics and in my life, and I trusted her sense of what I was capable of. And it worked. And she sent me back to redo something. Not many people send me back to do things over. Oddly, I liked that a lot.

All day I mulled over these ideas and then, as I coached someone through a shift in their life, they said, “I really trust your sense of this – I know I can trust you to help me get where I want to go.”

Aaron Johannes
Co-Director, Spectrum Society | Graphic Facilitator & Coach
Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
imagineacircle.com

YOU ARE TEACHING ME TO FISH AND IT’S PAYING OFF!

“Christina, I wanted to say thank you for the many valuable courses I have taken with you, and most particularly for your private coaching.

You’re very welcoming, whether it’s online or in-person, with you there’s always a safe space to learn and share.

Your versatility and willingness to deal with whatever is there AND what’s really there means I can bring anything to our sessions (and sometimes topics come up that I didn’t even know were on my mind) and that I trust you and your intuition to guide us wherever we need to go for best results.

Though you could easily tell me what course of action I should take (and sometimes do), I appreciate how you ask me what I think I should do because it’s training me to think for myself (you’re not feeding me fish, you’re teaching me to fish) and as we’ve seen it’s already paying off!

Through the depth and breadth of your experience (and products), you provide coverage across many topics: from what’s coming through me onto my wall murals to what’s coming through me into my wallet.

You easily switch between inner and outer work, such that in the span of less than an hour we could do deep processing (orphan rescue, etc) as well as discuss technical/logistical topics (contracting conversations, etc). That’s key because as you’ve demonstrated time and again, doing my inner work leads to the outer “work” coming with grace and ease.

Finally, you’re real: you share your space, little JJ, and your honest stories so that while I respect your expertise and track record, I’m not intimidated by you nor think you are perfect. You demonstrate that I can do it too, and I am!”

COVERED IN MIT REVIEW, THE NY TIMES, AND POPULAR SCIENCE

“I’ve employed Christina Merkley as my coach on-and-off since 1998. Six months after she led me through a vision exercise where I imagined myself on the cover of a magazine, the real thing happened when I made it into Java World. Since then I’ve been covered in MIT Tech Review, The NY Times, Popular Science, and Motor Magazine and was nominated for a 2003 Corporate Award sponsored by the World Tech Network. Yeah, you could call this work effective! Now I’m working with her again to take it up to the next level.”

Tim Clark
VP of Engineering / Director of R & D, VTTI
San Francisco, CA

PROFOUND BOTH PROFESSIONALLY AND PERSONALLY

“New to graphic recording, I have found that the work itself is quite profound both professionally and personally. After taking the Fundamentals of Interactive-Visuals, I took the opportunity to meet with Christina for a 1:1 coaching session. Her ability to listen and share the type of resources I needed to take my next steps has launched me into sharing new ideas at work and fulfill myself personally through further training in interactive graphics. I’m currently taking the SHIFT-IT Online Group and short of turning into a navel-gazer, I’m discovering my true essence, what motivates me, and how I can embrace my highest potential. I look forward to experiencing what the coming weeks will bring and how I can apply my “newfound self” to my existing life in new ways. Of all the healing modalities and techniques I have studied, Christina’s approach to her work is impeccable. We are fortunate that she shares her gift with the world.

Heather Martinez
Graphic Designer / Visual Practitioner
Colorado, U.S.A.

GOOD AT MAKING THINGS QUANTIFIABLE AND TANGIBLE

“I’ve hired Christina Merkley on and off for the last seven years, primarily for personal coaching and partnership facilitation. She’s seen me through two sad, but amicable, business partnerships dissolutions. Christina’s smart and intuitive (although I generally hate using that word!). A natural solvent … boiling disparate personalities to get to the pure, essential content of what needs to be done, by when, by who. Good at making things quantifiable and tangible.”

Paolo Salvagione
Owner, Swift Engineering
Sausalito, CA

GUIDANCE NOT ONLY ON AN OUTWARD LEVEL BUT ALSO THE MEANS FOR ME TO CHANGE MY INNER MINDSET

“I’ve worked with Christina as my mentor and guide in several capacities: Fundamentals of Interactive-Visuals, SHIFT-IT Online Group, a 6-month business incubator, and now private coaching. Before her, I’d been forever scratching my head about my business and the next steps. Frustrated that I couldn’t formulate my ideas well enough to get the pieces together and move forward. Never had time to flesh it out and make it real. Working with her is the best thing I have done for my business success. Guidance not only on an outward level but also the means for me to change my inner mindset … clearing the negative programming that had plagued me for so long. I’ve grown on a spiritual level as a whole person, something other business teachers/coaches have ignored. My development as a shamanic apprentice is encouraged and she’s helped me to see how to incorporate all aspects of me into what I do.I highly recommend working with Christina in any capacity you are called to. Worth every penny I invested!”

Lilia Lee
Online Biz Strategist & Shamanic Apprentice

ABLE TO RELEASE YEARS OF PAIN & GUILT. IN AWE OF CHRISTINA’S SOOTHING YET POWERFUL COACHING

“Before becoming a client of Christina’s I was very much stuck in limiting thought patterns. While working through Christina’s SHIFT-IT program I was able to uncover and heal the one thing that had kept me from stepping into the life that I truly wanted to live. I was able to release years of pain and guilt. This discovery and healing lead me to the path that I am on today. I am in awe of Christina’s soothing yet powerful coaching style. Through her work, Christina continues to challenge me to shift to my next level of success. I believe there are certain people that divinely come into our lives and change the course of our paths. Christina has been that person in my life.”

Brenda Rivas
Online Business Stylist
Founder & CEO, Alliance of Online Entrepreneurs
www.aoeconnect.com

“Christina, thank you so much for SHIFT-IT Online, a great program! I so appreciated the way you presented it and the materials were incredibly effective at getting into that other part of my head (right brain, I’m guessing) that is more open and for the most part, quiet. I had a distinct ‘SHIFT-IT’ experience at the point of making friends with my inner critic and take on things in a different, more empathic way. As I said before, I have had the benefit of time with a personal life coach and I recognized some of the same sensations. The special part of your sessions though was a) the forthcoming energy in participating graphically and the sheer fun of that; b) experiencing everything together with our group and our own smaller group within that group (five friends), and c) your expertise at listening for the meat and potatoes of what was shared and then generously explaining potential perspectives without inserting yourself. You are truly a gift.”

Debbie Simcoe
Parent Facilitator
Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
www.familyworksbc.ca

I CREDIT SHIFT-IT ONLINE WITH THE INITIATION OF THIS
TRANSFORMATION IN MY LIFE AND RESET OF MY SPIRITUAL PATH

“I want to say a huge thank you. I took your winter 2013 SHIFT-IT Online, during a challenging time in my career and life. It was exactly the experience I needed to get clearer about the life I desire, learn tools to create and attract what I want and build a reservoir of inner resilience and joy.

Two years later, I’m now Deputy Director at a nonprofit with a mission I care about deeply, working with a dear and like-minded friend and mentor, and I teach yoga in my “free” time. I have more energy and time to enjoy myself, my family, my husband, and my friends.

Some of these changes were immediate, some have evolved over the last two years, but I credit SHIFT-IT Online with the initiation of this transformation in my life and reset of my spiritual path.

I hope to one day be able to share these tools with others by becoming one of your Certified Visual Coaches! So, many, many thanks to you for creating and sharing this awesome program.”

Caitlin Ellsworth
Non-Profit Deputy Director
Washington, D.C. U.S.A.

INCREDIBLY RESPECTFUL OF A WIDE VARIETY OF VIEWS

“Fundamentals of Interactive-Visuals is a superb way to dip your toe into the world of working visually. Christina covers all the bases: from best ways to hang an enormous piece of paper, to ways to draw people and icons quickly, to deep insights into things that stop us from doing the work we want to do.

After taking this online training, I am starting to find work in the field. Just the other day I pulled out her checklist of things to bring to a graphic recording session. So basic yet so helpful!

I also have great respect for Christina’s work as a coach. She really knows how to listen and encourage people. It was great to witness and experience via SHIFT-IT Online.

And a side note– I appreciate that she’s up-front about being a proponent of the Law of Attraction. Some of you that are reading this might, like me, be a bit put off by it. Don’t be. Christina is incredibly respectful of a wide variety of views.

She’s a master at this work and generously shares all she knows. I’m grateful for all I have learned from her.”

Amy Sparks
Graphic Facilitator / Recorder
Minneapolis, Minnesota
http://www.avisualspark.com/

WE ALL HAVE GIFTS TO SHARE WITH THE WORLD. I’M GLAD CHRISTINA SHARES HERS, BECAUSE SHE IS HELPING ME TO SHARE MINE!

“I “met” Christina in fall 2012 when I joined a 12-week webinar program she co-hosted (Thrive In the Time of Awakening). During the next months, I was simply awed by her intuitive and compassionate facilitation as participants worked through sensitive connections and integrations. Later, I followed an unlikely inner prompting (considering that I have a beloved career in accounting) and joined the spring 2013 Fundamentals of Interactive-Visuals in beautiful Victoria, BC. I was concerned I might feel like an outsider, but I felt welcomed in a group of graphic and process professionals as she blended detailed training with facilitation of personal expression and expansion for each of us.

Most recently, I joined SHIFT-IT Online. I had been exposed to some of her visual maps in my earlier work, but this was an opportunity to dive deep. The maps helped me zero in on functional areas of my life I would like to improve without colliding with my internal resistance. And now, I am excited to venture into private coaching!

What I love about my work with Christina is that I know I can trust her to follow her intuition and internal guidance as she helps me to reveal to myself what I might not quickly see on my own. She recognizes and honors that inspiration is important to me. It’s my work to do, but it’s really nice to have her by my side. We all have gifts to share with the world. I’m glad Christina shares hers, because she is helping me to share mine!”

Lisa Moore
Accounting & Software Specialist
Oklahoma, U.S.A.

MY LIFE DEPENDED ON THIS AND THIS HAS CHANGED MY LIFE

“I have been searching for a way to put more soul into my work. I’m a frustrated artist with a busy life who doesn’t make time for my passion. I lost my way years ago from a fine arts degree to marketing, business development, and then into technology. Isn’t that what all good artists do?!

In 2004, a colleague showed me an intriguing sample of a visual corporate history. It was in a style I had not seen before and I loved it. I went on a quest to find out more and discovered The Grove Consultants. After initial well-received forays at my workplace my opportunity to work visually withered away. My focus turned to business development and technology and I could feel my life spark being drained.

I decided I could not continue this way and had to find a way to put some soul back into my work. So I re-ignited my art. But my big question was always; can it sustain the practical needs I have? What else can I do with this?

When I searched online and found Christina Merkley it was perfect. Her connection to The Grove coupled with her passion for The Law of Attraction was aligned with my personal and spiritual needs. I made the best decision I’ve made in a long time and signed up for Fundamentals of Interactive Visuals®. And when I made this commitment to myself, for myself, I felt a weight lift. I knew I was where I was supposed to be and was happy for the first time in a long while.

The online class is wonderful. Christina has a lovely, professional presentation style, a good sense of humor brings calm energy and is very open to all types of inquiry. The class had a great pace, organized materials, and well thought out exercises that were immediately applicable. She’s incredibly generous with time and provides positive critical feedback. You simply can’t go wrong, I guarantee it.

I followed with SHIFT-IT Coaching® – one of the most powerful experiences I have EVER had. The process is so thorough and she has an incredible ability to sense thoughts, feelings, and energy and patiently draw it out and put it in front of me to see – the aha moments just keep coming.

These experiences have been a real awakening. I have told Christina she is a brave adventurer and I truly admire her. I came looking for a change. I am now on a path more soulful than I ever expected, marrying my passion for art, spirit, and education. I know this is exactly where I should be. My life depended on this and this has changed my life. There aren’t enough words of appreciation to offer.”

Marion Freymann
Alternative Education Advocate
Florida, United States

I CAME TO RECOGNIZE THE ‘LOST’ OR DORMANT PARTS OF MYSELF, MY SOUL’S CALL.

“I LOVED SHIFT-IT Coaching, the maps, and our work together. You are a magnificent coach! I admire your work – you are a true pioneer.

I see from a process perspective, that the Law of Attraction builds over time, that the steps pave the way and flesh out the vision, and that it’s an ongoing day-to-day process. That may sound so obvious, but with my SHIFT-IT Maps here at my side, I can actually SEE and FEEL that energy at work. It is the energy of POTENTIAL. And, it is very inspiring!

Excerpt from a journal entry:
The sessions with Christina are powerful, transformative. I love the SHIFT-IT maps! I don’t know if it is simply the maps themselves (with their bright colors and drawings) or if it’s the way they portray a part of ‘me’ – am I that colorful, light, expressive, and creative? Am I that successful, that happy, and can I really create all of that in my life? After each mapping session, I feel myself in an ethereal space in which I reconnect to a part of me that has always been here, but that I haven’t been fully acknowledging. It’s the experience of feeling and allowing my true potential to come forth.

I want to thank you with appreciation. I felt an immediate sense of validation – you saw and heard me in a way that others hadn’t. Your gentle coaxing and feedback gave me a new perspective on myself and a renewed hope and commitment to pursue my passions. You knew exactly the same language, except you spoke it more clearly and fluently. Learning and being led by one who has grown wise and strong, I came to recognize the ‘lost’ or dormant parts of myself, my soul’s call. I feel great joy in remembering again what that call is. It is priceless!”

Melissa Nuwaysir
Life Coach, Group Process Facilitator, Wife, and Mother
Rome, Italy

GRATEFUL FOR YOUR WORK AND YOUR GRACIOUS GENEROSITY

“I know you realize the power of the deep spiritual nature of the work that you do- I just wanted to thank you for inspiring me over the last few months with SHIFT-IT Online and Fundamentals of Interactive-Visuals.

I can’t think of any course that I have done or even taught over the last few years that had such a freeing effect on me and I wanted to let you know that I truly am grateful for your work and your gracious generosity! I learned so much on so many levels … and it continues as I refine my SHIFT-IT maps!

I really appreciated the opportunities for us to connect with each other as a cohort and as friends … a really wonderful part of your curriculum! I made great connections and got to share bits of myself too (which brought me such wonderful understanding!)

There is something about holding space for co-creation mixed with individual creation and growth that is so powerful! I am looking at ways to build this aspect into my work – particularly with people who are labeled developmentally disabled. Often the people I work with are incredibly wise and creative- and are actually hungry for space to create without parameter. This isn’t about your curriculum per se, more about the energy and style you brought to us … so thank you for the modeling!

I am dipping my toe into the graphics piece slowly – still battling some gremlins there … and may repeat SHIFT-IT again in the fall. Am reading Ask And It Is Given and watching tons of Abraham Hicks – really resonates for me (thanks for introducing the Law of Attraction aspect, truly wonderful).”

Shelley Nessman
Consultant on Strategic Initiatives
Spectrum Society for Community Living
Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
www.spectrumsociety.org

I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THE SHIFT-IT PROCESS®

“Christina truly believes in her clients and the entire SHIFT-IT process. She has such a wonderful, positive, confident energy. She is extremely honest and is willing to share her breakthroughs and challenges with refreshing candour. I’ve gone through other coaching programs and always felt that the coaches were more preoccupied with saving time and money more than with my outcome. Christina is very generous with her energy and is very quick to respond to my questions in depth. Since doing SHIFT-IT, I’ve developed original visual curriculum, created my own website and packaged a global awareness course that is being piloted in NYC public schools this summer! I’m very excited about these energy-raising projects!”

Sabrina Dove
www.sabrinadove.com
California

TRULY A LIFE CHANGING EXPERIENCE

“Coaching with Christina was truly a life-changing experience. I was stuck at the time and the SHIFT-IT Process helped me to understand what steps to take next so I could move forward and reach my goals. Not only do I still use my maps on an annual basis for my personal and professional planning, I recommend her services and products to my clients all the time because I know they will benefit from such a visual coaching experience. The maps just make the growth so much more concrete and more effective. Thank goodness Christina does what she does!”

Sheri McConnell
Sheri McConnell Companies
San Antonio, TX

SKEPTIC SIMPLY VANISHED – POOF!

“I was struck by the level of commitment and maturity in the other participants and found myself honored to be in their midst. I also found Christina to be very skilled as both a listener and a problem solver, consistently hitting the mark with her insights. I was amazed at how skeptical I was at first. Soon after starting this work with Christina, that skeptic simply vanished. Poof! This program is so well-ordered, so well-thought-out, and so well-prepared, that I am convinced anyone will benefit, on some level, if they commit themselves to do this work.”

Sandra Kooper
Libertyville, Illinois
Executive Director of Not for Profit

THE MOST IMPORTANT INVESTMENT IN MYSELF AND BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

“Christina has been my Coach and Mentor for several years and I have attended pretty much every program she has ever run. This is the second Mastermind group I have been a member of and as with all Christina’s programs and trainings it delivered huge value on multiple levels. As a developing visual practitioner, MMM gave me a hotbed incubator environment to support developing and growing my visual skills, expand into new learning territories such as digital scribing and also benefit hugely from the rich mix of experience and knowledge of the other mastermind participants. As always Christina attracts high calibre, quality students from around the globe, and this group was no exception. Group calls meant maintained and consistent coaching and support plus the ever-important element of an in-person retreat gave all of us a super strong springboard from which to bounce. For me this has resulted in an accelerated expansion of my visual skills as a recorder and enhanced my facilitation processes and also my confidence has soared. As a direct result of being part of Magic Marker Mastermind, I have landed more graphic recording work, seen an increase in the number of referrals and repeat business for my practice and the personal 1-2-1 coaching I have received from Christina has significantly helped me hone and focus my business development and services offered. It is, without a doubt, the most important investment in myself and my business development this year and I have already made back the investment price several times over through increased work I have received. If you want to expand your visual skills, develop your visual business offerings, and be mentored by an industry pioneer you can learn from no better mentor than Christina.”

Tamsyn Hawkins
Business consultant and Visual Facilitator
London, UK
www.siriuscommunication.co.uk

BUSINESS IS POSITIVELY BOOMING NOW

“Christina coached me into clarity, and forward movement, in life and in my business coupled with a new level of understanding of what makes me tick, and how the Universe and I work in synchronicity! Thank you, Christina, for being so kind and helping me get clear of the things that were in my way…I use your Flip It technique every day! My business is positively booming now, and I am convinced it would be stalled if we had not worked together. Life is a lot clearer these days, and I have your guidance to thank, you are a truly gifted coach. In Gratitude!”

Viki Viertel
The Business Buddha
www.thebusinessbuddha.com

PEOPLE HAVE BEEN ASKING ME… WHAT HAPPENED TO YOU!?

“I was scared when I started the SHIFT-IT Process, not knowing who I was or what to expect. Christina taught me how to discover my true desires and, with one small step at a time, I turned my desires into my future. I am checking off my take-action steps and loving the feeling of making it happen for me. The overall experience was amazing. So many people have been asking me what has happened because I am a completely different person. I am a new woman — and so excited about it.”

Andrea Deyes
Victoria, BC,
Events Coordinator, Large Hotel Chain

HAS BELIEVED IN ME SINCE DAY ONE

“How has the last year been for me? It has been a 360 degrees head spin thanks to Christina. A year ago I had a vague idea of where I wanted to go in life, but I didn’t know how to get there. Christina has believed in me since day one. Her SHIFT-IT process made me clarify what my dream really is and helped me figure out that with the correct approach, I could get there. With our coaching calls, I have been able to move my dream towards reality, step-by-step. I have never been so excited about where I am headed and am actually enjoying the process of Law of Attraction to get there!”

Matt Ashdown
Ashdown Conditioning & Training / The Gratitude Dance
Victoria, B.C.
www.thegratidudes.com

ALL I CAN SAY IS “WOW!!!!

“After coaching with Christina Merkley, all I can say is, ‘Wow!’ If you haven’t noticed, there are coaches EVERYWHERE. It’s not easy to know if they are a good match or not. But because Christina is so entrenched in the Law of Attraction in a very real and human way she was able to reflect and shift my energy unlike I’ve ever experienced before. (And she does while keeping her sense of humor which is one of my key values.) I learned that when you are in emotional alignment, it’s easy to live the life you want. Everything after that just flows… What a freeing experience!”

Lorrie Morgan-Ferrero
Red Hot Copy
Van Nuys, CA

MAKES SENSE EVEN FOR LEFT-BRAINED TYPES LIKE ME

“Christina knows how to translate her program into ideas that make sense even for left-brained types like me. She offers a rare combination of business sense, a keen understanding of the human psyche, and positive energy that just draws people into her orbit and makes them want to stay there.”

Cathy Goodwin, PhD
Copywriter & Internet Marketer
Seattle, WA,
www.copy-cat-copwriting.com

I LAUGHED AT HOW ALL MY PLANS HAVE COME ABOUT … EVEN BETTER THAN I DOODLED THEM!

“Dear Christina, We haven’t met yet but … I was clearing out a filing cabinet and found my SHIFT-IT Mini Retreat I did last year. I laughed at how all my plans have come about – even better than I doodled them! And, what I really what to tell you is this – I think you are AWESOME! I so enjoy watching you and your business grow. See you imaginatively develop programs and expand your value – really step into your SHINE! Thank you for sharing your gifts with the world. Thank you for looking fear in the face and doing it anyway. Thank you for being such an inspirational teacher to so many other amazing women. Thank you!”

Jude Smiley
MBA, Rainmakers Inc & The Shine Group
www.judesmiley.com

VERY HAPPY TO HAVE FOUND YOU

“Christina facilitates the SHIFT-IT Process with elegance, ease, and skill. She has a trained ear and heart that helped me to flip resistance into a positive perspective. What a wonderful way to see the world” Thanks so much, Christina! I really appreciate who you are and am very happy to have found you!”

Marianna Dowhaniuk
Change Management / Human Resources, Community College,
Victoria, BC

UPDATE: YUP, GOT MY WEDDING ON THE BEACH TOO

“I commissioned Christina to help me create a “transformation plan” for my life. Within six months I manifested a new house, ended an unsatisfying relationship, negotiated a more flexible schedule to have more time with my son, aannnddd started meaningful volunteer work that feels like it may open into a whole new career path. Holy #*!”, this stuff is powerful. The only thing left is the wedding on the beach!”

“Update: I found and married my beloved partner … and yes, it was on the beach!”

Terri Eardley
Associate Investment Advisor and Mom
Victoria BC

A POTENCY AND STRENGTH AS A MENTOR THAT GOES ABOVE AND BEYOND

“Working with Christina Merkley has been a powerful experience! Not only is she an incredible coach, teacher and facilitator, she also has a potency and strength as a mentor that goes above and beyond. She is deeply committed to her own personal work and the well-being and happiness of her clients, colleagues, and friends. And she inspires so many to follow in her footsteps towards a rich, fun and fulfilling life.

I love incorporating ‘working visually’ into my healing and coaching practice. The support during her Fundamentals of Interactive-Visuals course was outstanding, helping me move through big blocks to see the goldmine that lay beneath my resistance.

SHIFT-IT Online was also a great help – allowing me to further process limitations; which parlayed into one of the most successful years of my career while still being authentically and openly me.

I am also blessed to work with Christina doing BodyTalk – love her powerhouse sessions that incorporate her deep wisdom, knowledge and understanding and her cut-to-the-chase coaching style and blast through stuck spots.

Thanks Christina for all your support, teachings and inspiration!”

Alexa Linton
Coach and Certified BodyTalk Practitioner
Duncan, British Columbia, Canada
www.alexalinton.com

WE GOT TO WORK ON THE BEACH FOR PART OF MY RETREAT!

“Christina’s non-biased approach allowed me to review my life and define reachable, step-by-step goals … which we are continuing to break down into even more doable steps each week on our coaching calls. I wish I had gone through a SHIFT-IT Retreat a long time ago! I really enjoy her listening, the one-to-one attention, and that we got to work down on the beach for part of my retreat!”

Anyck Turgeon
Oracle
Redwood Shores, CA

WITHOUT HER HELP I WOULD NOT HAVE DARED STEP OUT FOR MY DREAM

“Before I consulted with her, I was facing both personal and professional challenges — I knew I had to do something but the fear of failure blinded me. Her process helped me shift my attitude and create reality-based plans, which I’m in the process of implementing. When things get tough I use the charts we created to remind myself where I am going and why. Without her help, I would not have dared step out for my dream. Now I know I am on my path to a fully lived life.”

Kimiko Bokura
Health and Beauty entrepreneur
Santa Cruz, CA

ECLECTICALLY AND TIMELY TRAINED IN PERSONAL AND ORGANIZATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

“A gifted and intuitive listener and facilitator, able to draw out what is useful from the past, present, and hopeful future. Eclectically and timely trained in personal and organizational development, she can take you safely as deeply as you want to go.”

Bill Faust
Faust Consulting, Sausalito, CA
(formerly Director, Motorola University Executive Education and Leadership Development, Chicago IL)

WHEN I FIRST HEARD ABOUT THIS VISUAL STUFF I WAS SKEPTICAL … NOW I’M A TRUE BELIEVER.

“Awesome! That is the one word that describes the services that Christina has provided for me. Since I started working with her as my coach, I’ve bought my partner out to gain full ownership, have been stabilizing my growing business with improved systems (and growing profits) and have taken more time out for the fun things in life (golf, fishing, Vegas!). When i first heard about her and this visual stuff, I was skeptical and wondered if it was ‘blowing on tea leaves’. Not now, I’m a true believer. The graphics bring clarity and focus and give me a high-level map of my corporate direction. I highly recommend her and her Shift It! Process to anybody who is serious about success and defining (and getting!) what they really, really want.”

Robert Kemp
CEO, Raging Creations Ltd / ZenMed.com
Victoria, B.C.

I’VE TOTALLY TRANSFORMED BY LIFE!

“Christina’s graphic method helped me get clear on my accomplishments and the areas in my life that brought me the most enjoyment. I really tapped into the fact that I needed a much more creative outlet for work. In the year since working with her, I’ve totally transformed my life. I hung up my business-consulting hat, moved back home to North Carolina, and opened my own home decor store. Working with Christina was a pivotal stepping stone in my life.”

Phyllis Roberts
Owner, Dragonfly Home Decor
Asheville, NC

BEST INVESTMENT I’VE MADE IN MYSELF

“Working with Christina is the best investment I’ve made in myself. I needed a life-coach who held me accountable, asked the hard questions, and encouraged me to look at the life I really want to create. Christina did this and so much more. Her graphic applications gave me an insightful snapshot of where I’d been and where I’m going. I regularly implement her “Take action Plan” and focus on the top three priorities in my life to achieve maximum satisfaction. Christina skillfully guided me through her process and my life has truly shifted for the better. So far I’ve changed my mindset about personal health and have dropped 6 pounds. Plus, I am regularly attracting business contacts that not only increase my visibility but also increase my profitability. If you do one thing for yourself, make this it!”

Lisa Manyon
Professional Copywriter and Consultant
www.writeoncreative.com

OPPORTUNITY TO WITNESS CHRISTINA’S TECHNIQUES UP CLOSE

“Christina graphically captured my life’s emotions, experiences, and desires that helped me pictorially see my past, present, and wished for future. As a developing graphic facilitator, my SHIFT-IT Retreat not only helped with my thinking about my own practice and life but gave me the opportunity to witness Christina’s work and techniques up close — I loved it so much that I have built a gorgeous retreat room in the Santa Cruz mountains, so I can do Visual Coaching work with others”.

Patricia Jocius
Emergency Preparedness Consultant / Graphic Facilitator
Sunnyvale, CA
www.dealingwithdisasters.com

SEEING VICTORIA BC FOR THE 1ST TIME WAS ADDED BONUS

“I’d say about 75% of the visioning work I did with Christina in ’99 has come to fruition (new career direction with a substantial increase in salary, increased responsibility and respect, closer relationships with family, more opportunities to travel for work and pleasure and many material objects (new car, wardrobe, etc.)). She’s my ‘discovery guide’ … helping me define and accomplish the things that matter to me. I just flew up to do some more work with her (July 2003), as new goals are emerging and my desire to integrate my material and spiritual sides are becoming stronger. My SHIFT-IT Retreat was profound and seeing Victoria B.C. for the first time was an added bonus. I’ll be back.”

Julie Halsey
Manager, Leadership Development
Kaiser Permanente
Oakland, CA

FELT A FLOW IN WHICH PIECES OF INFO THAT PREVIOUSLY WEREN’T CLAR CAME CLUNKING INTO PLACE

“To sit in the chair and observe, think, sense, and feel the experience in a similar fashion to what my future clients would experience contained great value to me. I never realized the power of the process until I was literally in the thick of it – surrounded by Christina’s coaching and thought-provoking moments – partway through I felt a ‘flow’ in which pieces of information that previously weren’t clear to me came ‘clunking’ into place.”

Darlene Samer
Independent Consultant
Leadershape Consulting & Coaching
Whistler, BC

I’VE TAKEN IT TWICE AND BROUGHT FRIENDS WITH ME

“In SHIFT-IT Weekend Intensive moves one through ‘stinking thinking’ to bright possibilities and inspiring dreams. It’s a fun, safe and very, very useful workshop. Loved the demos, binder, vision boards, the flow of the process, the focus on Law of Attraction … and of course, the maps! I’ve taken it twice and brought friends with me.”

Sharon Hoyland
Gov’t Ministry Coordinator/Trainer/Facilitator
Vancouver, BC

MAPS HAVE REALLY HELPED ME COMMUNICATE WITH MY GIRLFRIEND

“The mini-retreat that I did with Christina was very motivating. She helped me get my ideas out of my head and organized onto paper. When I need inspiration and a bigger picture view, I pull my charts out to get re-inspired and keep going in the direction I have set out for myself. I’ve also shared my maps with my girlfriend and they’ve really helped me communicate to her what is important to me, both professionally and personally – what I’m in the process of creating and why this is so important to me. As an entrepreneur this kind of support and clarity is invaluable.”

Will Hassinger
Engineer & Sculptor, Wilbilt Inc.
Mill Valley, CA

AM LEAVING COMPLETELY INSPIRED

“After 2.5 days I have a clear vision for my future and the tools, skills, and resources to attract it. The location, group members, graphic work, the safe space – all were wonderful. I so appreciate your SHIFT-IT process as I now have the scaffolding I need to expand into my Future Self. I am leaving my SHIFT-IT Weekend Intensive completely inspired.”

Terry Ash
Facilitator/Inter-cultural Communication Consultant
Port Townsend, WA

MADE ME RELAX AND NOT WORRY

“Christina, this has been a life-changing weekend – brought me the Law of Attraction tools I have been looking for to assist me in my evolutionary process. The visual materials were very powerful and knowing I had The SHIFT-IT Retreat Kit to return to again and again, made me relax and not worry that I had to ‘get it all and get it now’.”

Kerry Chalmers
Realtor
Salt Spring Island, BC

CONCISE, CLEAR, EMPATHETIC AND ENGAGING

“Christina has an incredible process … great for individuals, business partners, and married couples (I’ve worked with her in all three ways). She creates a ‘mind map resume’ … helps you figure out your talents, skills, values, and goals. She’s helped draw out my own vision, helped me create a clear vision for my company, worked with my managers, and worked with my wife, Marvelee, and I to create our family vision. She brings out the essence of what is really going on … making things crystal clear and breaking it down to who is doing to what, when, and where. Concise, clear, empathetic, and engaging.”

John Papaloukas
President, Villages Pizza
Victoria, B.C.

KNOWS WHAT SHE IS DOING

“My husband John and I have worked with and known Christina for the last fifteen years. We have worked with her as business owners, individuals, and as a couple. Christina helps people communicate and creates a non-intimidating, safe, positive environment to help understand oneself and others better. Keeps you focused and moving forward. We’ve recommended her to other entrepreneurs, family, and friends. She’s professional, compassionate, intuitive, and knows what she is doing.”

Marvelee Papaloukas
Entrepreneurial Couple
Victoria, B.C.

ALREADY REFERRED 3 OF MY CLOSEST FRIENDS

“Can’t say enough about this remarkable woman and my coaching experience with her. I loved being able to actually visualize my own internal processes, to give them shape, form, and color. She was a gentle guide, pushing me along just enough, mapping out in front of my eyes a holistic pattern and purpose for the next few years. This becomes, I think, a manifestation of some kind, bringing together my conscious and unconscious thought processes. I’ve already referred three of my close friends.”

Kathy Evans
Poet, Teacher, former Board Member of California Poets in the Schools
San Francisco, CA

HER TIME HAS COME OF AGE

“Christina is truly a gifted facilitator; intelligent, talented and her spirit is so gentle. Her time has come of age … I believe her process of coaching/facilitating/recording others to awareness and success in their personal/professional realms is a cutting edge learning opportunity!”

Cathy McKenzie
Faculty, Royal Roads University
Leadership & Training MA Program
Victoria, BC

ENLIGHTENING AND MOVING EXPERIENCE

“My SHIFT-IT Process was an enlightening and moving experience. Visual Coaching is a very powerful tool. I now have a much clearer concept of my goals and my plan on how to achieve them”

Alan Pasemko
President, Theme Management Group
Victoria, B.C.

INCREDIBLE KNACK WITH PEOPLE

“What can I say. Christina has an incredible knack with people. Working with her has been a fun and enjoyable journey. Since our time together, I am simply amazed as to what has transpired: healing with siblings, a new baby, large changes in my employment, and career structure. My ‘new life’ is fuller, happier … I’ve made big shifts by coming to peace with my past. Thank you for the journey Christina!”

Ainslie Lowe
Full-time Mom living the life I desire

TRANSITIONED FROM A HIERARCHICAL, TOXIC CORPORATE JOB INTO SELF EMPLOYMENT

“I started my work with Christina by coming for a half-day SHIFT-IT Retreat and I emerged over a year later as a mentee and apprentice. Having witnessed the power of Graphic Facilitation in my past corporate work, I was thrilled to have this insightful methodology used on just me and my life — my life’s story mapped out in all its glory right in front of me with my newly emerging dreams and aspirations. Christina coached me as I transitioned from leaving a hierarchical, toxic corporate job into self-employment … and through the journey of re-accrediting as a nurse. I’ve also been lucky enough to shadow and assist her in corporate work and workshops and regularly recommend her to business colleagues and friends alike. I am hooked on graphics!

Terry Ogilvie
Facilitator, Registered Nurse, and Independent Consultant
Victoria, B.C.

IT’S TOUGH BUT REWARDING WORK

“What a powerful way to shift my life into a state of achievement rather than staying in a dreaming or aspirational state. It’s tough but rewarding work – come ready and willing to grow.”

Lisa Morgan
Change Management Consultant
Calgary AB

AN ALCHEMICAL SOUL WHO KNOWS WHAT IS REAL AND WHAT COUNTS

“She’s an alchemical soul who knows what is real and what counts. Exquisitely sensitized and sharply attuned she literally drew out my essence – revitalizing, encouraging, and motivating me to use my gifts as a springboard, and not lean back. When we give our all, the dream comes true.”

Marsha Dawson
Intuitive Counselor
San Raphael, CA

NOT FOR THE FAINT OF HEART – SERIOUS HEAD AND HEART WORK

“I first saw Christina in action when I was in the midst of a grueling residency in pursuit of my Master’s degree in Leadership & Training. Her work of capturing our thoughts with graphics fascinated me. I decided to work with her personally. She’s very professional, yet personable enough to help me dig deep into my thoughts quickly. The completed maps and charts are an ongoing source of accountability and inspiration. This activity is not for the faint of heart; it is serious head and heart work that creates an artful masterpiece that either inspires or haunts you, depending on how fully you respond to its call.”

Steve Doerksen
Church & Community Youth Worker / Worship Leader
Whiterock, BC
(Royal Roads University, MA Leadership & Training candidate)

HER GRAPHIC APPROACH IS VERY, VERY COOL

“I engaged Christina after a cross-country relocation, to help me get my bearings and get support for my new life. She’s an empathetic, intuitive coach and her graphic approach is very, very cool. I could literally see the various areas of my life begin to fall into place. There is a palpable energy to the charts we co-created, like a magnet to keep my “inner compass” pointed in the direction of my dreams. She’s really onto something with this innovative way of working!”

Annie Chase
Computer Programmer & Hypnotherapist
Santa Rosa, CA

HAS GREAT SKILLS – INCLUDING HUMOUR!

“I engaged Christina for her 2 day Shift-It! Retreat because I desperately wanted to find my way through a quagmire of ideas and options. Christina expertly helped me to create a GRAND VISION for my life and an action plan of specific, doable steps. I’m now working with her as my ongoing “manifestation coach” and am thrilled with my progress. She compassionate, caring with sensitive information, and has great skills – including humour!”

Amaiah Popadynec
Owner, Firefly Holistic Massage
Victoria, BC