Plot Twist

A restless bookstore owner longs to start a new chapter. In the first installment of a three-part series, Kate Glynn tells her story to O life coach Martha Beck.

- Martha Beck

FOR 12 YEARS, Kate Glynn has owned a children’s book and toy shop in the charming town of Northampton, Massachusetts. “It’s a great life, but it’s the life I thought I’d have in retirement,” she says. “I came here for college and just fell into children’s retail after graduation. I’ve been in a holding pattern ever since.” The 36-year-old has been asking her gut for guidance—and it’s giving her the silent treatment. “I still don’t know what I want to be when I grow up,” Glynn says. “I wish I could see the school guidance counselor!” Clearly, it’s time for a chat with Martha Beck, guidance counselor for adults. Let’s drop in on their first session.

Martha Beck: Hi, Kate. Owning a children’s bookshop sounds like a dream! But you’re not finding it so dreamy. 

Kate Glynn: Some parts of it are. I feel at home here, and I like helping kids. I majored in child and family studies, which is how I wound up working at the store. And when I graduated, the owner was selling it, which seemed like a sign. But numbers aren’t my jam. I am not a retailer.

MB: Who are you then?

KG: I’m an educator. We sell baby wraps, and I love teaching parents how to wear them. Touch is the first way you communicate with your baby, and a wrap lets you have constant contact but leaves your hands free. I also enjoy giving customers advice about gifts.