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Behind the Scenes
Nurture Ambition process, coaching philosophy and client journeys.


Why I Don’t Offer Resume Writing as a Standalone Service
People often ask if I write resumes and while I can, it’s not the heart of what I do. At Nurture Ambition, I focus on helping people build the confidence, clarity, and career management skills to navigate their careers long-term. A resume is not a one-time document, it evolves throughout your working life. Rather than simply writing resumes for people, I believe in empowering them with the skills, insight, and support to confidently manage their careers sustainably.

Merly Hartnett
May 213 min read


National Careers Week 2026: Recognising the Impact of Career Development | CDAA Community Recognition
As part of National Careers Week 2026 and the CDAA Community Recognitions, this reflection highlights the importance of career practitioners across schools, higher education, vocational education, occupational rehabilitation services and the private sector, and the meaningful impact they make across the lifespan.

Merly Hartnett
May 182 min read


I Chose Remote Work Before It Was Cool - Here’s Why and What I’ve Learned Since 2016
I didn’t choose remote work because it was cool, I stumbled into it during one of the most vulnerable seasons of my life. What began as a necessity during pregnancy became a long-term career design choice rooted in values, wellbeing, and family. In this post, I share what I’ve learned after working remotely since 2016, the benefits, the sacrifices, and why working from home only supports wellbeing when it’s intentionally designed.

Merly Hartnett
Jan 164 min read


The Two Kinds of Motivation: One Drains You, One Sustains You, A Career Wellbeing Coach Perspective
In the first 30 days of burnout recovery, progress starts with permission to rest, reflect, and reconnect with what truly matters. Discover why shifting from fear-based to development-based motivation is key to creating lasting change and how your personal vision becomes the compass for a sustainable, fulfilling life.

Merly Hartnett
Aug 16, 20254 min read


I Didn’t Think Mindfulness Would Be Part of Career Coaching… But It Changed Everything
Discover how mindfulness transformed my approach to career coaching and helped my clients find clarity and confidence without the burnout.

Merly Hartnett
Jul 18, 20253 min read


How Healing My Body Image Changed the Way I Coach Burnt-Out Women
As a burnout and career coach, my personal struggles with body image completely reshaped the way I support women. Discover how body shame and burnout are connected and why your healing starts with compassion, not control.

Merly Hartnett
Jul 3, 20254 min read


What’s the Difference Between a Health and Wellness Coach, Nutritionist, and Dietitian in Australia?
Wondering whether to see a Health Coach, Nutritionist, or Dietitian? Learn the key differences and how to choose the right support for your health goals.

Merly Hartnett
Jun 26, 20254 min read


No Time for the Gym? Here’s How I’m Moving Anyway
We all know that our feelings can influence how we move. When you're sad or tired, you probably slow down. When you're anxious, you might either rush around or freeze altogether. But here’s what’s often overlooked: The connection between your brain and your body is a two-way street. That means your movement can actually influence how you feel, too. Yep, your body can help shift your mind. Why Movement Matters Your brain may be the master controller of your body, but the way y

Merly Hartnett
Apr 15, 20253 min read


The One Thing I Will Now Do Before My Morning Walks
Discover the morning routine tweak that helps busy mums lower cortisol and feel energised again.

Merly Hartnett
Apr 8, 20252 min read


Cyclone Alfred and Your Mental Wellbeing: Finding Calm in the Chaos
Right now, Queensland and Northern NSW are bracing for Cyclone Alfred. The storm is moving slowly (which isn't necessarily a good thing!), I’m already seeing changes, grey skies, howling winds, and an underlying sense of uncertainty from my office window. Just two days ago, when my friend Tina first checked in to see if I was okay, the sky was a clear and beautiful blue. It’s fascinating to see how people react differently in times like this. Some are panic-buying, while othe

Merly Hartnett
Mar 6, 20253 min read


Juggling Career and Health: A Client’s Journey with Cancer Treatment and Stress Management
Over the past couple of months, I’ve been working with a client on her career journey. She's a strong, determined individual, and we’ve been making great progress. But there’s been one thing that’s been weighing on me. During our time working together, she’s had to take weeks off work and cancel meetings with me. From the start, I’ve always said that her health comes first and that she should focus on recovery. It's something I truly believe, and I want the best for her both

Merly Hartnett
Mar 1, 20253 min read


Making Time for What Truly Matters: Lessons from Muddy Adventures and Scroll Holes
This is a photo of my son last year. He was outside having the time of his life playing in the mud. He was fully immersed in the moment, laughing, creating, and just being. It got me thinking: When was the last time I felt that free and present? When was the last time you did? As busy mums, life often feels like an endless to-do list, work deadlines, school runs, meals to cook, and the million other responsibilities pulling at us. It’s easy to feel like there’s not enough tim

Merly Hartnett
Feb 14, 20253 min read
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