OVER the years, Anthony Quinn has read scores of self-help books to satisfy his curiosity and interest in what makes people tick.

But many of the books, sold worldwide, left him feeling that there was one key ingredient lacking - an interaction between the author and the reader.

Mr Quinn, from Parkside, Darlington, decided to embark on a journey of self-discovery that would not only change his life, but set the wheels in motion for him to coach others.

He searched the Internet for the right course to become a life coach and trained for three months with the Results Life Coaching organisation, at a cost of £3,000.

He now works from home over the phone, or arranges face-to-face meetings with clients, coaching them on how to stay in control of their lives.

"We are brought up to believe that life is about success - having money, a car, a family - but really it is about being aware of our choices and deciding for ourselves what we want to do," he said.

"Most people who come for coaching have goals. My job is about getting people to look at what options they have and look at the obstacles. They then go away and do the work themselves."

Mr Quinn, 40, set up his part-time business, Empirical Coaching, aside from his work as a team leader at a chemical company.

He said his coaching ties in with his belief that the best way to learn is to get out and live life.

"I have a genuine belief that most people are capable of so much more than they dare dream. Coaching is the best way I have found of helping others fulfil more of their potential," he said.

"I help to put the power back into people to give them control in their lives, break habits and help them to become personally responsible for what they do. It is all about making decisions."

He said the job could be very rewarding, adding: "I see how people transform their lives in just a few weeks and it is inspiring.

"If I coach someone first thing on a morning for half an hour and then go into work, I'm buzzing.

"Coaching is very satisfying - knowing you had some small part in changing someone's life."

To find out more, contact Mr Quinn on (01325) 247403 or visit www.empirical coaching.co