Exclusive Interview with Troy Crutchfield: Insights on Life, Philosophy, and Coaching --[Reported by Umva mag]

Troy Crutchfield is a dedicated life coach and founder of TLC Systems Inc., where he combines the wisdom of Stoic philosophy with modern coaching techniques to guide individuals toward personal and professional growth.

Born and raised in Long Beach, California, Troy developed a passion for sports and teamwork, which laid the foundation for his disciplined approach to coaching. His background in philosophy, earned through his studies at the University of Hawaii, inspired him to apply ancient wisdom to contemporary challenges, helping clients navigate life with resilience and clarity.

At TLC Systems Inc., Troy Crutchfield helps people align their actions with their core values, manage stress, and overcome obstacles with a focus on self-awareness and intentional decision-making. His unique blend of Stoic principles and practical coaching empowers clients to lead balanced, fulfilling lives. Beyond his professional work, Troy is an advocate for mental health and an active supporter of initiatives like the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, embodying his commitment to both individual and community well-being.

How did your background in philosophy influence the way you approach life coaching?

My background in philosophy, particularly my study of Stoicism, laid the foundation for my entire approach to life coaching. Philosophy is about examining life and understanding the “why” behind our actions, behaviors, and thoughts. In my coaching, I often encourage clients to think deeply about their values and the reasoning behind their decisions. Stoicism, in particular, focuses on controlling what is within our power—our thoughts, actions, and responses—while accepting that much of life is beyond our control. This approach helps me guide clients in managing their emotions, making clear-headed decisions, and finding peace even in uncertain circumstances.

For example, I had a client who struggled with anxiety over situations they couldn’t control at work. By applying Stoic principles, we shifted their focus from trying to change the external environment to controlling their internal reactions. This simple but powerful mental shift transformed how they handled stress and uncertainty, leading to more fulfillment and success.

What’s one of the biggest misconceptions about life coaching that you encounter?

One of the biggest misconceptions is that life coaching is about offering advice or telling people what to do. Many people assume that a coach’s role is to have all the answers and provide solutions. But in reality, life coaching is much more about guiding people to discover their own answers. It’s about helping clients find clarity by asking the right questions, reflecting on their challenges, and empowering them to make decisions that align with their values and goals.

For instance, when a client comes to me feeling stuck or indecisive, my job isn’t to hand them a solution on a silver platter. Instead, I guide them through a process of self-discovery. I help them see different perspectives, weigh their options, and connect with what truly matters to them. This approach not only fosters independence but also builds the confidence that they can tackle future challenges on their own.

What has been the most surprising lesson you’ve learned since starting TLC Systems Inc.?

One of the most surprising lessons I’ve learned is just how much my clients teach me. Coaching isn’t a one-way street; it’s a dialogue, and in the process, I’ve been exposed to so many different perspectives on life, success, and personal growth. Every client’s journey is unique, and their stories, struggles, and triumphs have helped me deepen my understanding of human resilience and adaptability.

For example, a client once shared how they had faced repeated failures in their entrepreneurial journey but refused to give up. Their story reminded me of the Stoic belief in persevering through adversity, and it reinforced how our mindset is key to how we handle setbacks. I’ve learned that each coaching session is an opportunity for mutual growth—both for the client and for me as a coach.

How do you help clients who are struggling with perfectionism?

Perfectionism is a common issue, and it often leads to stress, burnout, and a sense of never being good enough. When working with clients who struggle with perfectionism, I encourage them to explore the underlying fears and beliefs driving their need for perfection. Often, it stems from a fear of failure or a desire for external validation. The key is to shift their focus from perfection to progress and to embrace the idea that imperfection is part of being human.

A Stoic principle that I often introduce in these situations is the concept of accepting what is within our control and letting go of the rest. Perfection is unattainable, and striving for it only sets people up for disappointment. Instead, I help clients set realistic goals, celebrate small wins, and recognize that mistakes and imperfections are valuable learning opportunities. This mental shift helps them develop a healthier relationship with themselves and their work.

Can you tell us about a time when you felt stuck and how you moved past it?

There was a point early in my coaching career when I felt stuck creatively. I was struggling to differentiate my coaching style from others in the field, and I worried that I wasn’t offering enough value to my clients. It was a challenging time because I began questioning whether I was on the right path.

What helped me move past it was going back to my roots in Stoicism. I took some time for deep self-reflection and reminded myself that I couldn’t control external outcomes, but I could control my effort and focus. I also sought guidance from a mentor who helped me reframe my challenges as opportunities for growth. By returning to the basics of my own philosophy and seeking support, I was able to realign with my purpose, and I eventually introduced new techniques and approaches that resonated deeply with my clients.

How do you incorporate mental health awareness into your coaching?

Mental health is central to everything I do in coaching. I believe that personal growth is impossible without addressing mental health, so I make it a point to foster an environment where clients feel safe to discuss their mental and emotional well-being. I also encourage mindfulness practices, such as meditation and self-reflection, as tools for managing stress and anxiety.

For example, I’ve had clients who were dealing with significant stress at work but didn’t realize how much it was affecting their mental health. By integrating mindfulness techniques and helping them identify the root causes of their stress, we worked together to create sustainable coping strategies. I also collaborate with mental health professionals when necessary, as I believe that coaching and therapy can complement each other in powerful ways.

What personal habits have contributed most to your success as a coach?

Consistency and reflection have been two of my most important habits. Every day, I make time for personal reflection—whether it’s through journaling, meditation, or simply sitting with my thoughts. This practice keeps me grounded and allows me to stay connected to my own goals and values. It also helps me process my own emotions so that I can show up fully for my clients.

Another habit that has contributed to my success is maintaining a learner’s mindset. I never stop learning—whether it’s reading new books, attending workshops, or engaging in meaningful conversations with other coaches and professionals. I believe that to be an effective coach, you must always seek growth and be open to new perspectives.

How do you help clients set and achieve meaningful goals?

Goal-setting is a critical part of my coaching process, but it’s not just about achieving external success. I focus on helping clients set goals that are deeply aligned with their core values and who they want to become as individuals. This makes the goals more meaningful and motivates them to stay committed in the long term.

I guide clients through a process of self-reflection where they identify their values, passions, and long-term vision for their lives. From there, we break down larger goals into smaller, actionable steps. This way, the goals feel achievable rather than overwhelming. Along the way, we assess progress and make adjustments as needed, always keeping the client’s growth and fulfillment at the forefront.

How do you maintain balance between your personal and professional life?

Maintaining balance is something I prioritize, and mindfulness is a big part of that. I make sure to create space for things that nourish me outside of work, such as spending time with family, meditating, and staying active. These practices help me stay grounded and prevent burnout.

I also set clear boundaries between work and personal life. As much as I love my clients and my work, I know that I need time to recharge so I can be fully present for them. Having a daily routine that includes downtime and self-care is essential for keeping that balance and maintaining my own well-being.

What’s the next step for TLC Systems Inc.?

I’m excited about expanding TLC Systems Inc. into a more accessible platform that incorporates digital coaching tools. I want to reach more people who might not have access to traditional life coaching but could benefit from the resources we provide. I’m currently working on developing online courses that combine Stoic principles with practical life coaching strategies, allowing individuals to go through the process at their own pace.

Additionally, I’m planning to host more workshops and webinars focused on resilience, mental clarity, and goal-setting, especially in today’s fast-paced world. The goal is to build a supportive community where people can learn, grow, and connect, regardless of where they are in their personal journey. The future is all about creating a broader impact and helping more people achieve their full potential.

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Exclusive Interview with Troy Crutchfield: Insights on Life, Philosophy, and Coaching

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