Anne Jackson is Founder and CEO of One Life Coaching ME

Anne is an Internationally renowned life coach with more than 14 years of hands-on experience in the UAE, working with a wide variety of clients in both the corporate and personal spheres, across many demographics, to foster psychological, emotional and mental well-being, leading them to greater success, authenticity and joy in life.

1.Your journey into Life, Executive and Therapeutic Coaching is inspiring. What was the defining moment that led you to start One Life Coaching M.E.?

I remember the moment with absolute clarity. I was walking with a colleague across the sunlit amphitheater of the Dubai secondary school where I worked as a Modern Foreign Languages teacher. Mid-conversation, I turned to him and said, “I think children have had plenty of my time. If I really want to make a difference, I need to be working with adults and teenagers in the mental health sphere.” That realisation felt like a profound shift – a calling that couldn’t be ignored.

Psychology has always fascinated me; I’ve been endlessly curious about how our emotions and minds shape our lives. This passion initially led me to a career in advertising, where I delved into human behavior and the psychology of consumerism for global brands. While thrilling at first, after a few years I was finding that it didn’t fulfill my deeper desire to make a meaningful difference.

So I went back to university to retrain as a secondary school teacher, seeking to influence and inspire young minds. For over a decade, I thrived in the classroom and loved every moment, but as time passed, I found myself yearning for something more impactful – something that could truly transform lives.

That moment in the amphitheater in 2012 crystallised my decision. Fully committed to this path, while still teaching, I once again returned to my studies to gain my Life Coach accreditation with the Association of Coaches (AC) and to study many different therapeutic modalities including CBT, ACT, and TF-CBT, to name but a few. By 2014 I had transitioned entirely, leaving teaching behind to dedicate myself to coaching. In 2017 I officially launched One Life Coaching M.E.

One Life Coaching M.E may have begun with that pivotal realisation on a sunny afternoon in Dubai but the entire journey to get here has been nothing short of extraordinary. Every step – whether in advertising, teaching, or coaching – has shaped my understanding of people and what they need to thrive.

2.As a pioneer addressing divorce and mental health in the UAE, how have you seen societal attitudes evolve over the years?

The evolution of societal attitudes toward divorce in the UAE has been nothing short of transformative. When I began addressing this topic in 2012, divorce was shrouded in stigma – a hushed subject, spoken of only in whispers, regardless of cultural or religious background. Many expats carried a misconception that a divorce meant uprooting their entire lives, leaving behind years of hard work, friendships, and even their children’s futures in the UAE. This pervasive sense of isolation motivated me to act. I founded Leaves Dubai, a support group offering individuals a safe space to connect and share their stories. Around the same time, I launched a Facebook group for solo mums to foster a community where they could find support, understanding, and camaraderie.

Over the past 12 years, I’ve witnessed extraordinary progress. One of the most notable milestones has been the establishment of the Civil Court, which allows non-Muslims in the UAE to navigate divorce without the application of Sharia Law. This is a significant step toward inclusivity and understanding in such a diverse society as the UAE.

That said, I want to be clear – I’m not “pro-divorce”. In fact, when couples come to me for couples coaching to overcome their challenges and choose to stay together it’s incredibly rewarding. Divorce is a life-altering decision, ranked as the second most challenging experience after bereavement, so it’s never anyone’s first choice to run to. Sometimes, however, despite best efforts, marriages cannot withstand irreconcilable differences in culture or mutual growth or betrayal and so the healthier option for all is to lead more fulfilling lives apart.

What gives me hope is the shift in how society approaches these conversations. Divorce is no longer a silent burden; instead, people are finding the courage to seek help and share their struggles openly. This cultural shift has cultivated a more compassionate and supportive environment – one where individuals can prioritise their mental health and well-being without fear of judgment or isolation.

3.You’ve worked with a diverse range of clients. How do you tailor your coaching approach to resonate with different cultural belief systems?

Cultural adaptability has always been second nature to me, shaped by my multicultural upbringing and global experiences. With a Portuguese father and a Brazilian mother, born in England and raised across all three countries and later studying in France, my experiences have not only led me to speak 5 languages but more importantly have equipped me with a deep appreciation for diverse cultural nuances and belief systems.

What’s more, living in Dubai for the past 25 years – the longest I’ve ever resided in one city – has further enriched this perspective. Dubai’s vibrant tapestry of cultures has allowed me to work with clients from across the globe and in every interaction, my priority is to honor my clients’ values, traditions, and worldviews. My role is not to project my own cultural or religious beliefs but to create a safe and inclusive space where they feel understood and respected. This personalised approach ensures that my coaching resonates on a meaningful level, empowering clients to grow within the framework of their unique culture – and I can do this thanks to my unique globality.

4.Leadership is a key theme in your work. What are the top qualities you believe every great leader should embody?

At the core of great leadership is authenticity. It’s surprising how many people struggle to clearly define their own values, but a strong leader has this clarity, and lives in alignment with it. This authenticity breeds trust and trust is the foundation for inspiring and motivating others.

Great leaders also embrace the philosophy of “servant leadership.” This means prioritising the needs of their team over personal gain. It’s a mindset of service, where the leader creates an environment where everyone can grow, thrive, and reach their full potential. In turn, this selfless approach not only fosters loyalty but also builds a culture of inclusivity and respect.

Assertiveness is another essential trait of effective leadership. Many people mistakenly associate assertiveness with overpowering others, but it’s actually about creating win-win situations. A great leader handles conflict with grace, sees it as an opportunity for resolution, and fosters an environment where everyone feels heard.

Ultimately, a great leader leads with integrity from a place of humility and substance.

5.Your ‘Leaves Dubai’ divorce support group was groundbreaking. What advice would you give to individuals navigating significant personal transitions?

Navigating significant personal transitions can be profoundly challenging, especially because our unconscious mind tends to perceive change as a threat. This resistance to the unfamiliar often keeps us trapped in comfort zones that no longer serve us. Surprisingly this can occur just as much in positive transitions as in negative transitions. Take, for example, the misconception that fame or fortune will lead to happiness. Many who achieve this still find themselves grappling with emptiness or “imposter syndrome” – a sense of not deserving the success they’ve attained. This inner conflict arises when our sense of self-worth hasn’t been nurtured, leaving us questioning whether we are truly worthy of happiness or success.

During times of significant personal transitions, it’s common to focus on what is lost – which is emotionally draining. This is when it is essential to practice a balanced approach. Positive psychology encourages us to acknowledge and process negative emotions while also recognising the strengths, opportunities, and sources of joy that may still exist in our lives. This approach does not ignore the difficulties we face but allows us to navigate them in a healthier way, ultimately promoting emotional resilience. During these transitions is when seeking expert guidance becomes essential as navigating such changes alone can be overwhelming.

Equally critical during these transitions is the presence of a supportive community. A network that extends beyond immediate family can play a crucial role in emotional recovery. Research, including the well-known 75-year Harvard study on happiness, consistently shows that strong social connections are not only linked to better emotional health but also contribute to physical well-being. Individuals with supportive communities experience fewer age-related health issues and report higher levels of life satisfaction. This long-term value of social connection underscores the importance of nurturing relationships during times of personal change.

6.The UAE is a melting pot of cultures. How do you balance the unique challenges of coaching in such a diverse environment?

Having grown up in a multicultural environment, I have always been deeply fascinated by the varied belief systems and traditions that shape people’s lives. This has given me a uniquely open-minded perspective, allowing me to naturally understand and navigate cultural differences. That has helped me ensure that my coaching approach always aligns with the individual’s cultural and religious framework, rather than my own.

In many ways, I believe I would be less fulfilled – and perhaps even less effective – if I were to work exclusively within the confines of a single culture, as one might elsewhere. The diverse landscape of Dubai challenges me to continuously adapt, think critically, and expand my understanding. This dynamic environment not only keeps my work stimulating but also enriches it in ways that are incredibly rewarding. It’s a constant learning journey, and embracing this diversity is one of the most exciting aspects of my profession.

7.Mental health conversations are gaining traction globally. What role does emotional intelligence play in fostering personal and professional success?

Emotional intelligence (EI) is a cornerstone of both personal and professional success, playing a pivotal role in building meaningful relationships, fostering effective communication, and driving positive outcomes. Individuals with high EI possess the ability to not only understand and empathise with others’ emotions but also to manage their own. This self-awareness and empathy allow them to make more thoughtful decisions, free from impulsivity or bias, creating an environment of inclusivity and well-rounded choices.

Emotional intelligence also equips individuals with the tools to regulate their emotions, making it easier to cope with stress and recover from setbacks. This resilience contributes to long-term well-being, enabling individuals to navigate life’s challenges with grace and confidence.

In the professional realm, emotionally intelligent people excel as communicators and leaders, inspiring others, motivating teams, and fostering a collaborative atmosphere. Their ability to manage conflict, offer constructive feedback, and cultivate trust within teams is invaluable. Moreover, EI enhances our capacity to express ourselves clearly, to actively listen, and to read non-verbal cues, allowing us to adapt communication styles to diverse audiences. This versatility is essential for meaningful interactions in both professional environments and day-to-day life.

The best part? Emotional intelligence isn’t a fixed trait – it can be developed and strengthened. Through dedicated training and coaching anyone can boost their emotional intelligence, leading to personal growth, greater success and ultimately a more joyful, balanced life.

8.What has been the most rewarding aspect of your career so far, and what keeps you motivated?

I know it sounds a bit like a cliché, but I honestly started this journey with the simple belief of “If I can just change one person’s life for the better, then I’ve done my job.” And here I am, doing this job every single day and it’s still the best feeling ever. There’s nothing like hearing a client say, “You’ve helped me change my life.” It’s like receiving a mini standing ovation, every time. I’ve even been called by quite a few clients, their “Earth Angel” which, let’s be honest, is an incredible compliment!

What really excites me is working with clients who come in thinking, “This is all a waste of time; nothing can help me,” and then, bit by bit, they start to shift. I’m only ever the guide of course – it’s the clients who do the heavy lifting – but through that guidance I help people clear their mental clutter, release the emotional baggage they’ve been dragging around, and point them towards healthier, more fulfilling paths. Watching that transformation is like witnessing a butterfly emerge from a cocoon – pretty extraordinary.

On a bigger scale, I always hope my work creates a ripple effect in the wider society. My hope is that if I help one person, hopefully they will inspire others, who can then inspire more. It’s a chain reaction of positive change.

I still get frustrated when I hear things like, “everyone’s got baggage” or “they’ll be mentally scarred for life.” No, we don’t need to drag our emotional baggage around with us forever. There are proven techniques that enable us to let go of our emotional load and turn our scars into “victory wounds”. We just need to know the how – which is where people like me come in.

And there’s always room for growth and resilience, even after the most challenging times. It’s incredibly rewarding to witness clients reaching Post Traumatic Growth (PTG) – where they not only overcome their challenges but actually grow stronger because of them. That’s the magic, right there.

9.You’re fluent in several languages and have a deep understanding of cultural nuances. How does this skill set enhance your coaching methods?

One of the most fascinating aspects of coaching in a multilingual environment like Dubai is how two people can be speaking the same language to each other – often English – and still interpret each other’s words completely differently. Thanks to my polyglot background, I can see clearly what each of them means, but it’s always fascinating to watch how they can’t and how their reactions unfold as a result. This discrepancy highlights the importance of understanding not just the words but the deeper context and cultural nuances behind them. Words can carry vastly different meanings depending on someone’s cultural background, and this insight allows me to better grasp what a client is truly trying to communicate.

Languages themselves hold unique subtleties that enable me to connect with clients on a deeper level. For example, in Portuguese, the word “saudade” expresses a type of longing that goes beyond simply “missing someone.” It’s a complex emotional state that’s challenging to translate directly into other languages. Similarly, in many cultures, there’s often only one word for both “embarrassed” and “ashamed,” and the distinction between the two is only revealed through context. Being aware of these delicate differences allow me to help clients articulate emotions they might not even have the words for in their own language.

Being fluent in multiple languages has also sharpened my ability to understand what’s left unsaid. Often, it’s the unspoken feelings or concerns that hold the key to a person’s true experience. This ability to intuitively sense what’s not being expressed aloud enables me to offer guidance with greater empathy and precision, helping clients uncover and address what they may not even be consciously aware of themselves.

10.If you could share one key piece of advice with our readers about achieving authenticity and balance in life, what would it be?

So many people feel the pressure to act in ways that aren’t true to themselves – whether it’s saying what they think others want to hear or behaving in ways that contradict their core beliefs, just to fit in. This is called masking and whilst it may seem like an easy way to gain acceptance, it’s a path that is ultimately mentally, emotionally and physically draining. In the end it only holds you back from reaching your true potential.

Living authentically, on the other hand, is the antidote to this. Authenticity is about living in alignment with your own values and beliefs, not those dictated by others. For sure you won’t find this easy at first, especially if you’ve been masking for a long time. It often means going against the grain and, yes, possibly even facing criticism or rejection. You may even have to walk away from short-term opportunities that don’t align with who you are. However, in the long run the reward is that living an authentic life leads to those amazing opportunities that can only be found when you are truly yourself.

When you live authentically, you no longer need to second-guess your words, actions, or decisions. You build a deep trust in yourself and your motivations. This kind of confidence doesn’t come from external approval; it comes from knowing your inner worth. And that’s where balance emerges. When your actions are aligned with your values, life begins to flow more naturally, everything seems to fall into place, and life gets easier, lighter, and more joyful.

For me, there is only one “non-negotiable” – to show up authentically in everything I do. This is core to my foundation and is what allows me to live a balanced, fulfilling life. So, if there’s one thing I’d say to you, it’s this:  Be unapologetically yourself – the world needs your authentic presence, and when you step into it, everything else will follow suit.