Troy Crutchfield is a dedicated life coach and founder of TLC Systems Inc., where he seamlessly blends the wisdom of Stoic philosophy with modern psychological practices to guide individuals toward personal and professional growth.
Growing up in Long Beach, California, Troy’s early involvement in sports such as basketball and flag football instilled in him the values of discipline, teamwork and resilience, principles that have profoundly influenced his coaching approach.
After earning a bachelor’s degree in Philosophy from the University of Hawaii, Troy was inspired to apply Stoic principles in a practical context, leading him to establish his coaching practice. His methods focus on helping clients align their actions with their core values, overcome challenges with grace, and live a fulfilling and balanced life. Known for his compassionate and strategic approach, Troy has earned a reputation for his ability to help clients achieve meaningful transformations.
In addition to coaching, Troy Crutchfield is deeply committed to mental health advocacy and community service. He actively integrates mindfulness and meditation into his daily routine and encourages his clients to do the same, believing that self-care is the foundation of true personal growth.
What inspired you to combine Stoic philosophy with life coaching?
My journey with Stoicism began during my philosophy studies at the University of Hawaii. I was drawn to the practical wisdom it offers, especially in the way it encourages resilience and a focus on what we can control. The more I studied, the more I realized that these principles could be incredibly helpful in guiding others through life’s challenges. Life coaching naturally became the medium through which I was able to share these insights. I found that by helping people align their actions with their values and teaching them to let go of what they can’t control, I could make a real difference in their lives. It’s about empowering others to live with purpose and approach life with clarity and calm.
How do you integrate stoic exercises into your coaching sessions?
Stoic exercises are at the heart of my coaching methodology. One practice I often incorporate is “premeditation of evils,” in which clients are encouraged to think about potential challenges they may face and mentally prepare to face them. It’s not about pessimism; it’s about building resilience and a sense of preparedness. Another key exercise is journaling, in which clients reflect on their day, their emotions and their actions in light of their values. This practice helps them stay grounded and aware of their progress. Finally, I highlight the importance of focusing on what can be controlled, which helps clients reduce anxiety and make more intentional decisions.
Can you share a story of a client who experienced significant progress thanks to your coaching?
One client stands out in particular: a successful entrepreneur who struggled with a sense of purpose and direction. Despite his success, he felt dissatisfied and was constantly stressed. Through our sessions, we focused on identifying its core values and aligning its business practices with those values. We also worked on letting go of the need to control every outcome, which was a major source of his stress. Over time, he began to experience a change in his mindset. He restructured his business to better reflect his values and started delegating more, which not only improved his work-life balance, but also reignited his passion for what he he was doing. Seeing that transformation was incredibly rewarding.
How do you deal with clients who are resistant to change or skeptical of Stoic principles?
Resistance to change is a natural human response and I approach it with empathy and patience. I never impose Stoic principles on anyone; instead, I present them gradually and in a way that is related to the client’s specific challenges. For example, if a client is dealing with high levels of stress, I might begin by discussing the concept of focusing on what they can control and letting go of the rest. Once they see the practical benefits of this mindset, they are often more open to exploring other Stoic practices. It’s about meeting customers where they are and gently guiding them to a new perspective.
What role does self-care play in your life and how do you incorporate it into your daily routine?
Self-care is absolutely essential, especially when your job involves supporting others. For me, self-care starts with meditation every morning. It helps me focus and set a positive tone for the day. I also make sure to make time for physical activity, whether it’s a walk by the sea or a workout. These activities aren’t just about physical health; they are about maintaining mental clarity and emotional balance. I also prioritize spending time with family and close friends, which keeps me grounded and reminds me of what really matters. By taking care of myself, I am better equipped to take care of my clients.
How do you stay motivated to continue growing and evolving in your career?
Growth and learning are lifelong commitments for me. I remain motivated by constantly seeking new knowledge and perspectives, whether through reading, attending seminars, or engaging with other thought leaders in the field. I also find inspiration in my clients’ journeys. Seeing their growth and progress reminds me of the impact my work can have, which pushes me to continue improving. Another key factor is setting personal and professional goals that challenge me to step outside of my comfort zone. By continually pushing myself to evolve, I can offer the best possible support to those I coach.
What advice would you give to someone struggling to find their purpose?
Finding purpose is a deeply personal journey and often begins with self-reflection. I would recommend anyone struggling with this to start by exploring their own passions and values. Ask yourself what activities or causes make you feel most alive and fulfilled. Then, consider how these passions align with your strengths and how they can be used to serve others or contribute to a greater cause. It’s also important to be patient with yourself; purpose is not something that always reveals itself immediately. It may take time and several experiences to discover what truly drives you. Finally, don’t be afraid to seek advice from a coach or mentor who can help you navigate this process.
How do you balance the analytical and emotional aspects of your work?
Balancing the analytical and emotional aspects of life coaching is crucial. On the one hand, I use analytical tools and strategies to help clients set goals, monitor progress, and make informed decisions. On the other hand, I recognize the importance of addressing the emotional side of personal development. People are not just rational beings; they are also deeply emotional. My approach is to create a safe space where clients feel comfortable expressing their emotions and at the same time help them apply logical thinking to their challenges. This balance ensures that clients not only move forward in a practical sense but also heal and grow on an emotional level.
What was the most surprising lesson you learned during your coaching career?
One of the most surprising lessons I’ve learned is the power of vulnerability. At the beginning I believed that, as a coach, I always had to exude confidence and have all the answers. However, over time, I realized that showing vulnerability and admitting that I don’t have all the answers can actually strengthen the coaching relationship. It creates an atmosphere of mutual respect and trust, where clients feel more comfortable opening up about their struggles. This lesson taught me that true strength lies in being authentic and that by embracing vulnerability, I can connect with clients on a deeper level.
What do you see as the future of life coaching, especially with the integration of technology?
The future of life coaching is incredibly exciting, especially with the integration of technology. We are already seeing the growth of online coaching platforms, making coaching more accessible to people around the world. I believe technology will continue to play a significant role, particularly in areas such as personalized coaching programs, AI-based insights and virtual reality environments for immersive coaching experiences. However, I also believe that the human element will always be fundamental. Technology can enhance the coaching experience, but it cannot replace the empathy, understanding and personal connection that a coach brings. The key will be finding the right balance between leveraging technology and maintaining the human touch.