
About
A Personalized Approach to Sustainable Growth
Embracing Humanity. Unlocking Strengths. Building a Better Way to Work.
Hi, I’m Diederik Rijkens, an Organizational Alignment and Transformation Consultant. I help individuals, teams, and organizations align their strengths with their goals, so they can thrive authentically. My work is grounded in fostering trust, improving communication, and creating environments where people feel seen, valued, and inspired.
My Story – A Journey of Discovery and Alignment
When I first entered the workplace after completing my bachelor’s and master’s degrees, I quickly noticed a pattern—one that I couldn’t ignore. I was sensitive to the dynamics around me and became deeply aware of how so many people were working in environments that didn’t truly honor their talents, genius, or humanity.
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I saw people who were never asked about their opinions, never given the chance to contribute beyond their assigned roles, and often overlooked for what they could bring to the table. I saw uninspired teams, disengaged employees, and people who felt unseen. And I felt it too. I experienced what it’s like to not be recognized for my strengths or ideas, to not be asked who I really am or what I need in a way that honors my humanity.
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During my early career, working in corporate environments such as recruitment, supply chain, and data analysis, I experienced firsthand the limitations of systems that treated people like interchangeable parts of a machine. I saw how this disconnection stifled creativity and led to high turnover, low engagement, and a lack of fulfillment.​​
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That sense of disconnection stuck with me. It sparked a desire to find better ways of working—ways that honor individuality and allow people to operate in their zone of genius.​
In late 2016, everything changed. I had an unexpected mystical experience shortly after being introduced to the Human Design System. For the first time, I saw how misalignment isn’t just a surface-level issue—it’s deeply rooted in how we understand ourselves, communicate, and make decisions. From that point forward, I knew I was meant to help others create alignment in their lives and organizations.​​
My Professional Experience
My career journey has given me a holistic understanding of both individual and organizational dynamics:
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As a corporate recruiter, I saw how often people were hired into roles that didn’t fully match their strengths, leading to frustration and high turnover. I learned how to identify talent and recognize when a mismatch was holding someone back
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As a supply chain buyer, I experienced the limitations of rigid systems where people were treated like cogs in a machine, inspiring me to explore more human-centered approaches to work.
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As a data analyst, I developed the ability to analyze complex systems, uncover inefficiencies, and recommend solutions to optimize processes and improve outcomes.
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In my current role as a career coach and organizational alignment and transformation consultant, I combine these experiences with coaching and Human Design insights to help individuals and teams align their strengths with meaningful roles, fostering environments of growth, collaboration, and sustainable success.
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This journey has shaped my belief that honoring people’s humanity is key to unlocking their full potential. Systems designed to treat people like machines will always underperform compared to those that embrace individuals fully—allowing their strengths, creativity, and contributions to shine.​​
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My Philosophy
Alignment begins with accountability. When we take 100% accountability for our emotions and decisions, we are 100% free to create a life we love. This approach not only creates personal freedom but also unlocks new possibilities in our careers and professional lives.
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Sustainable growth happens when people operate in alignment with their strengths and are empowered to contribute meaningfully. My goal is to help individuals and organizations unlock that alignment through tailored guidance and practical tools.
At Coded to Thrive, I don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. I combine practical coaching with powerful methodologies—including the Human Design System, Gene Keys, Languages of Appreciation, and Nonviolent Communication—to address each individual or team’s unique dynamics.
Here’s what you can expect when we work together:
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Clarity: Understanding your unique strengths and challenges.
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Alignment: Identifying what needs to shift to achieve greater flow and engagement.
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Integration: Applying those changes in a meaningful and sustainable way.
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This journey has shaped my belief that honoring people’s humanity is key to unlocking their full potential. Systems designed to treat people like machines will always underperform compared to those that embrace individuals fully—allowing their strengths, creativity, and contributions to shine.​​
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My Toolkit
My work is highly personalized, and I draw from a variety of tools to meet the unique needs of each client:
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Human Design System: To understand individual and team dynamics, decision-making, and communication styles.
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Gene Keys: To explore purpose and unlock hidden potential
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Languages of Appreciation: To foster stronger connections and engagement in teams.
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Nonviolent Communication: To improve collaboration and resolve conflicts effectively.
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And many more yet to be added by me or my collaborators.
These tools aren’t used rigidly—they’re woven into the coaching and consulting process as needed to maximize outcomes.​​​
Who I Work With
I work with:
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Professionals seeking clarity, purpose, and career alignment.
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Business leaders ready to optimize their role and delegate more effectively.
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Teams and organizations looking to align their people with their mission, improve communication, and foster a culture of trust and collaboration.​​​
Let’s Explore What’s Possible
When we take full responsibility for our lives, we unlock the freedom to live authentically and achieve meaningful success. Whether you’re navigating a personal career change or transforming an entire team, the path to alignment begins with accountability and intentional action.
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If you’re ready to explore a different way of working—one that honors humanity, builds trust, and leverages individual strengths—I’d love to connect. Whether you’re an individual or a business leader, the path to alignment starts here.