Guest: Michael Georgiou
Episode Summary
In this episode of Mid-Career Change, I speak to Michael Georgiou, a Chartered Accountant who is currently navigating a transition into coaching. Michael shares openly about choosing accountancy as a pragmatic career choice, the early signs that something was missing, and how his values became a compass for change.
We explore the challenge of juggling a full-time job while building a coaching practice, the mindset shifts that have helped him move forward, and how he's reshaping his understanding of fulfilment, good work, and identity.
If you're currently in the 'messy middle' of a career change or contemplating your next chapter, you'll find this conversation insightful, honest, and encouraging.
đź”— Connect with Michael on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-georgiou
Selected Transcript Highlights
Michael reflects on how his decision to study accounting and finance at university was driven more by a desire for financial stability than passion. After qualifying as a Chartered Accountant, he spent the majority of his career in the retail real estate sector. Over time, he began to notice a lack of excitement and a recurring thought that he wanted something more fulfilling.
He describes how investing in a coaching programme helped bring clarity, not by waiting for certainty, but by taking action. Michael also shares his core values—freedom, fulfilment, service, growth, and stability—and how these have helped guide his next steps.
Balancing a full-time role with building a coaching practice has brought challenges, particularly around energy and conflicting values, but Michael is learning to navigate this messy middle by focusing on identity, mindset, and the joy of meaningful work.
He offers advice to others considering a change: speak to people, seek help, and don’t try to figure it all out on your own. He’s found connection and clarity by doing just that—and encourages others to take the same step.