Happy Saturday! Today’s quote is:

“In scattering seeds of kindness, do it by hand and not by machine.” (George Ade)

As coaches, our primary aim is to nurture growth, foster development, and inspire positive change in our clients. We strive to empower them to reach their fullest potential, guiding them through challenges and celebrating their successes. However, I think that particularly when you are first starting coaching amidst the plethora of techniques and methodologies you come across, it’s easy to lose sight of the fundamental essence of coaching: the human connection.

George Ade’s timeless quote, “In scattering seeds of kindness, do it by hand and not by machine,” encapsulates a profound truth that resonates deeply with the philosophy of how I now approach coaching. In a world driven by efficiency and automation, it’s crucial for coaches to embrace the significance of being human in their practice.

My coaching now comes from the grounding of the understanding that our experience of life is created from the inside out, through the interplay of thought, consciousness, and mind. Unlike traditional coaching approaches that often focus on external strategies and behaviour modification, my coaching now delves into the core of human experience, emphasizing the innate wisdom and resilience within each individual and use that understanding to get new insights on actions to take etc. I’ve found that such understanding also allows life to be navigated in a much gentler fashion so that when unexpected challenges do appear they can be handled with more grace and patience.

While my coaching approach prioritises understanding the internal dynamics of the human experience, it doesn’t imply passivity. Instead, it encourages us to trust our intuition, wisdom, and creativity, allowing us to navigate challenges with grace and patience. By aligning with our inner guidance rather than imposing external strategies, we find a harmonious balance between productivity and personal fulfilment. I find it’s a kinder way for us to treat ourselves and still get things done.

In essence, it does seem to me that coaching is about sowing the seeds of kindness, understanding, and compassion in the fertile soil of human consciousness. It’s about cultivating an environment where clients feel seen, heard, and valued for who they truly are, beyond their roles, titles, or achievements.

If we are to look at the whole quote in the context of coaching, what does it mean for coaches to “scatter seeds of kindness by hand”? For me, it means approaching coaching with a genuine spirit of empathy and presence, where every interaction is imbued with warmth, sincerity, and respect. It means taking the time to truly listen to our clients, not just to their words, but also to the deeper currents of their thoughts and emotions.

In practical terms, this might involve creating a safe and non-judgmental space where clients feel comfortable expressing their vulnerabilities and exploring their innermost thoughts. It might mean offering words of encouragement and support, not as empty platitudes, but as genuine reflections of our belief in their potential for growth and transformation. It’s about allowing the conversation to unfold naturally and authentically, rather than relying on pre-determined directions or habitual questions. By staying present and attuned to the client’s needs, we can foster a deeper level of understanding and connection.

Moreover, “scattering seeds of kindness by hand” entails recognizing and honouring the unique humanity of each individual we work with. It means seeing beyond their surface behaviours or presenting problems and acknowledging the inherent worth and dignity within them. It means embracing a coaching approach that is holistic, inclusive, and deeply respectful of the diversity of human experience.

In a world that often values speed and efficiency above all else, the practice of coaching offers a powerful antidote—a reminder of the timeless wisdom that resides in human connection and within our authentic selves. As coaches, we have the privilege and responsibility to nurture this connection, to tend to the garden of human consciousness with care and compassion.

About Jen Waller

Jen Waller is on a mission to support, nurture and encourage coaching skills and talents from non-coach to coach and beyond.

As an experienced coach and trainer, Jen is happy to utilise all skills at her disposal to assist clients from getting out of their own way and making a difference in the world with their coaching. Find out more about the support Jen offers here.