Carolyn Vines

Author · Writing Mentor · Journaling Guide

Meet Carolyn

Author · Writing Mentor · Journaling Guide

I never aspired to be a writer.

I wanted to be a doctor—a surgeon, no less—until I realized I couldn’t stomach blood and guts and was afraid of needles, even when they weren’t poking me.

Instead, I studied Spanish and spent time traveling through Mexico and the Caribbean before eventually moving to the Netherlands with my Dutch husband, where I’ve lived for more than twenty-five years.

How I Got Here

Writing arrived unexpectedly.

The tragedies and losses I had carried since childhood eventually found their way onto the page and became black and (A)broad: traveling beyond the limitations of identity, my memoir.

After publishing my book, I left my academic career and trained as a professional life coach.

What began as a personal writing practice, eventually led to teaching, coaching, memoir writing, and a deeper appreciation for the quiet power of reflection.

A Few Fun Facts

  • I have three children ages 22, 19 and 14
  • Tap dance and play golf
  • Make my own journals
  • Am secretly in love with our rabbit
  • Hold a Master’s degree in Latin American Literature
  • Currently writing Dear Diary
  • Am very funny (IMO)

Contact

Me Carolyn Vines journaling
Still have questions? Totally normal. Here are a few I get often—if yours isn’t here, just reach out. I’m happy to talk it through.

FAQ

Do I need to be a coach to take the ELI assessment?

Not at all. This is for anyone curious about how they show up—especially in moments of stress, transition, or creative block. Coaches, creatives, soul-searchers… all welcome.

Will it tell me what kind of person I am?

Nope—and that’s a good thing. The ELI doesn’t box you in. It shows how your energy shifts based on what’s going on around (and inside) you. It’s about awareness, not labels.

What happens after I book?

You’ll get a link to take the assessment online. It takes about 20 minutes. Once that’s done, we’ll meet for a 90-minute coaching session to unpack your results together.

Is this just for work stuff?

Energy shows up *everywhere*—in your writing, relationships, boundaries, self-talk, confidence. This isn’t just about productivity; it’s about alignment.

Can I ask questions before I book?

Of course. Just reach out here and I’ll get back to you personally.