In a world where challenges often lead to despair, some individuals rise above adversity and inspire others with their journeys. One such individual is Autumn Clifford, a former police officer turned professional coach and entrepreneur. Her story is one of resilience, self-discovery, and the power of leadership.
From Law Enforcement to Life Coach
Autumn's career in law enforcement began at the young age of twenty. She was passionate about her role and envisioned a long career, dreaming of advancements in the field. However, life took an unexpected turn when she suffered a severe back injury that led to her early retirement from a job she loved.
After six and a half years of service, Autumn faced the harsh reality of a career-ending injury. The pain was not just physical; it also brought about a profound identity crisis. She found herself couch-ridden for six months, grappling with depression and PTSD. During this challenging time, she had to confront her feelings of worthlessness and uncertainty about her future.
The Turning Point
Autumn's journey of self-discovery involved recognizing the skills she had developed during her time in law enforcement. She understood that her experiences had equipped her with unique qualities that could benefit others. This newfound clarity led her to pursue a career in life coaching, where she could make a meaningful impact on people's lives.
The Importance of Leadership
Throughout her story, Autumn emphasizes the critical role of leadership, particularly in times of crisis. She reflects on her own experience with leadership—or the lack thereof—during her injury. Unfortunately, the support she hoped to receive from her department was absent. Instead, she faced isolation and a lack of understanding from those she once considered colleagues.
Autumn's story resonates with many in law enforcement who may feel unsupported during difficult transitions. She highlights the need for leaders to foster a sense of community and support, especially for those facing challenges. A supportive environment can make a world of difference for individuals navigating their own struggles.
Self-Leadership: A Key to Transformation
While external leadership is crucial, Autumn emphasizes the importance of self-leadership. She believes that individuals must take responsibility for their own growth and well-being. Self-awareness is the first step in this process, as it allows individuals to understand their feelings and motivations.
Autumn encourages those in law enforcement to reflect on their values and passions. She emphasizes that being self-aware and recognizing what truly matters in life can lead to fulfillment and purpose. By embracing self-leadership, individuals can navigate their careers with intention and clarity.
Empowering Others through Coaching
Today, Autumn is dedicated to empowering others through her coaching practice. She founded "She's an Asset," a platform focused on providing self-awareness and situational awareness training. Her mission is to help individuals recognize their value and potential, regardless of their career background.
Autumn's training sessions have reached hundreds of individuals, including both men and women in law enforcement. Her approach is grounded in the belief that everyone has the power to be an asset in their own lives. By fostering self-awareness and confidence, she equips her clients with the tools they need to succeed.
Finding Purpose Beyond the Badge
One of the key messages Autumn shares is that law enforcement professionals are more than just their badges. They possess a wealth of skills and experiences that can be applied in various areas of life. By encouraging individuals to explore their passions outside of law enforcement, Autumn helps them discover new avenues for growth and fulfillment.
She recognizes that many officers may struggle with the transition to civilian life or find themselves questioning their identity after leaving the force. Autumn's coaching provides a safe space for individuals to explore their strengths and redefine their purpose.
Conclusion: A Journey of Resilience
Autumn Clifford's journey is a testament to the power of resilience and self-discovery. From her early days as a police officer to her current role as a life coach, she has navigated challenges with grace and determination. Her story serves as an inspiration for others who may be facing their own struggles, reminding them that they are not alone.
Through her work, Autumn empowers individuals to embrace their identities, recognize their value, and lead themselves towards a fulfilling life. In a world that often tries to define us by our roles, she encourages everyone to remember that they are, first and foremost, human beings with unique gifts to share. As we reflect on her journey, let us all strive to be assets in our own lives and the lives of others.
Travis Yates is the co-author of “The Courageous Police Leader” and has been training risk management and leadership for over two decades that have spanned thousands of students and 48 states. After dedicating over 30 years to the law enforcement profession, he is now working full-time consulting and training law enforcement leaders across the country.
Brian Ellis is a retired law enforcement lieutenant with over 25 years of service. He is the co-author of “The Theory of Magnus Ovea”, and his dedication to the theory of leadership led him to the National Command & Staff College, where he and his colleagues launched MAGNUSWorx, an education and data analytics platform dedicated to peak performance and wellbeing. Brian is a speaker, coach, and trainer for government and private organizations, dedicated to promoting leadership, high-performing teams, and providing others with actionable information for personal preparedness and resilience. His work has been featured in various media outlets, including numerous articles, book chapters, and podcasts.
Share this post