Welcome - Let's meet!
A project born from the collaboration of passionate individuals and inspired by the wisdom of the Enneagram.
Together, we create a transformative space where young adults can explore their inner world, navigate life’s challenges, and discover the tools to thrive.
One Day, I Woke Up
…and realised something profound. Looking back over my life—the studies I pursued, the career I built, the family I raised, the kids I nurtured; losing everything, rebuilding from scratch; the friendships I gained and lost—I saw one common thread: every experience shaped me into the person I am today.
That morning, a powerful clarity struck me: this is what life is truly about.
It’s not about what happens to you, but how you handle it. How it shapes you, makes you stronger, softer, teaches you to set boundaries, to open yourself to others, to take steps forward, and sometimes to pause. And so much more.
That realisation hit me deeply: all the work we keep ourselves busy with—in the end, it all serves one purpose:
I AM THE WORK
Why I AM THE WORK?
Observations
Jeanette noticed a trend over the past few years: her coaching clients were becoming increasingly younger—the sons and daughters of her long-time clients—and the challenges they faced were growing more significant. She observed the same in the wider circle of young people around her sons and the children of her friends and clients. This trend seemed to intensify during the pandemic. Research confirms that over 50% of 18-to-30-year-olds report struggling with issues such as loneliness, depression, and feeling lost in the world.
The Spark
One young client shared a striking observation: their generation often copes by numbing themselves, living from weekend to weekend at festivals, and expressed that every young person would benefit from a conversation with Jeanette. While offering one-on-one sessions to everyone isn’t feasible, this sparked the idea for the I AM THE WORK project. In her book, Jeanette distilled the essence of the transformative journey she undertakes with each coaching client, enabling readers to embark on this journey themselves—or together with friends—supported by additional tools available on this website.
Co-creation
This project is shaped by the voices of those it serves. Listening to the Voices We’ve engaged in extensive conversations with a group of 18-to-30-year-olds, listening closely to their stories, struggles, and dreams. These authentic exchanges have provided invaluable insights into what this generation seeks: guidance, connection, and tools for personal growth. Their experiences and aspirations are at the heart of everything we create.
Our Mission
I AM THE WORK is more than a project—it’s a movement. Our mission is to inspire and empower young adults to take ownership of their lives, embrace inner work, and unlock their potential. In a healthy way, we guide them to find and develop their guru within themselves, making them more resilient against (unhealthy) influences from the outside world and the internet. Through music, group conversations, and transformative tools, we aim to guide them toward self-discovery and meaningful change.
We're all on a journey
In this work, everyone must do the inner work themselves, but no one has to do it alone. In the tradition of the mystery school, we all learn from each other, inspire each other, and support one another in our growth. Everyone involved in this project is also learning and growing every day. This is the movement where your involvement is deeply valued.
Let’s embark on this journey, together.
To meet evolving needs, the tools and support offered by I AM THE WORK will continue to improve and expand. We greatly value your feedback, as it is our wish to provide what truly makes a difference.
The 'I AM THE WORK' Team
At the heart of this project is Enneagram Europe, a mystery school in the transformative tradition. This ancient model of learning has been a vessel for passing down wisdom since antiquity, fostering deep understanding and personal transformation across generations.
With decades of experience guiding personal and professional growth, we bring the depth and knowledge needed to create meaningful change.
Jeanette van Stijn
The author of the IATW Book, certified Enneagram teacher, and founder of Enneagram Europe, Jeanette brings a wealth of expertise and insight.
Dries Schuttinga
The driving force behind I AM THE WORK, Dries ensures the project runs smoothly. Without his unifying qualities and ability to bring out the best in everyone involved, this project could not have been realized.
Zhé van Dam
The creator of the Magic Wheel, the music album. Member of the target audience, Zhé infuses the project with creativity and inspiration.