“The Little Coach Engine That Could Because It Stopped Sabotaging Itself” by Hillary Saffran

The Little Coach Engine That Could Because It Stopped Sabotaging Itself

Hillary Saffran
Saffran Coaching and Consulting Services LLC (2022)
ISBN 979-8218041045
Reviewed by Jill Rey for Reader Views (11/2022)

Author Hillary Saffran writes from the perspective of her own life experience as she specifically reaches out to new coaches, therapists and/or healers who have recently received their certification or degree and completed their training, ready to embark on their own. Whether starting their own business, or building their own clientele, it is a scary hill to climb. Stating that even if all the furniture, toys, guides, and programing are done, there is so, so much more to getting over the hill than might meet the eye.

Based on the beloved children’s book “The Little Engine That Could” by Watty Piper, Saffran’s “The Little Coach Engine That Could Because It Stopped Sabotaging Itself” is a cute, but effective take on this beloved tale. Admitting to her own procrastination in moving forward solo, Saffran has written this book for others that may be going through something similar, in hopes it will encourage them to keep going and not give up on their own journey.

The story within is compelling for readers, young and old. While at times quite specific, for instance, the shiny and rich engine offering seminars and programs for exorbitant fees, and other times quite relatable, like the rusty old engine that thinks they should just retire, this story is fun and transformative as it provides insights into the negative power of self-sabotaging words. When we are constantly berating ourselves with negative speak it becomes familiar to us and we begin to live up to the labels we place on ourselves. 

This positive and enriching story is relatable and offers a great message to all who read it. “The Little Coach Engine That Could Because It Stopped Sabotaging Itself” even ends with an epilogue that offers more insight into the author’s own personal experiences and things holding her back, including how she overcame them and additional resources to help readers going through similar struggles overcome them as well. This interesting new twist on self-help and real-life storytelling offers a relatable but important story for any new coaches, therapists or other licensed practitioners thinking of setting out on their own. Despite being a quick read, a powerful and important lesson lies within.