On Rocky Point Pier,
Port Moody, BC

‘Ziptreking’ at Whistler, BC

“It doesn’t work to leap
a twenty foot chasm in
two 10 foot jumps.”

-Proverb

"How old would you be if
you didn't know how
old you were?" 

-Satchel Paige

I am Barbara Swanston, an experienced Life and Retirement Coach.  I have been coaching since 2002.  It's my calling!  I love to work with individuals, couples, groups and people within organizations who want to make a successful transition from full time work to a fulfilling, joyful retirement. People who intend their ‘bonus years’ to be satisfying, fulfilling and joyful. 

Background & Personal information

In my former life, I have been an administrative assistant, a social worker, a career transition trainer, a colour consultant.  I am also a wife, mother, friend, volunteer, and explorer of life.  After I was laid off in 2002, I knew I didn’t want another ‘office’ job. I discovered coaching and ‘retired’ from the 9-5 work life to become a professional coach. I haven’t looked back.

My husband Michael and I have been married over 35 years. Our 2 children are grown and have ‘flown’.  We have lived in 3 different countries on 2 continents. Now, we call Port Moody, BC (near Vancouver) home. It is one of the most beautiful places on earth and we love living here. In fact, I am living my dream and love my life. Each day is an adventure.

Retirement Coaching - My Philosophy

I am a Retirement Revolutionary! My vision is that the ‘Bonus Years’ can be among the best years of your life. We Boomers* have put our stamp on each phase of life. In the 1970’s we embraced the Joy of Sex. Then we were stirred by the Joy of Cooking. Let the next step be a leap into the Joy of Retirement.

Retirement Coaching – My Credentials

I am a Certified Professional Co-Active Coach (CPCC). I received my training at the Coaches Training Institute, an International Coach Federation accredited school. I have served on the board of the Vancouver Chapter of the ICF. I am also a member of the Canadian Association of Pre-Retirement Planners. 

 I am a certified LifeOptions Coach and facilitator. The LifeOptions Program includes an online assessment, personalized report, What Color Is Your Retirement e-book and one on one coaching. The LifeOptions assessment is a scientifically devised assessment tool designed to identify the personal retirement strengths and concerns of people planning their retirement or who are recently retired.

 A certified 2young2retire facilitator, I lead effective, fun, interactive workshops based on the popular book “Too Young to Retire: 101 Ways to Start the Rest of Your Life”. These 6 week programs will inspire and motivate you to think differently about retirement planning and your ‘bonus years’. 

My Top Values

Family & friends, Integrity, Connection, Gratitude, Making a Difference.

(*Boomer – anyone born between 1946- 1964!)