Today’s coaching quote of the day is:

“We judge ourselves by what we feel capable of doing, while others judge us by what we have already done.” (Henry Wadsworth Longfellow)

As we welcome the first Friday of 2024, let’s pause and reflect on the words encapsulated in today’s quote by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. “We judge ourselves by what we feel capable of doing, while others judge us by what we have already done.” I think that this quote invites coaches to delve into the dynamics of self-judgment and the impact it may have on both personal and professional growth.

The Paradox of Self-Judgments:

Longfellow’s words illuminate a paradox that many of us grapple with – the disjunction between our internal assessment of our capabilities and the external judgments based on our past actions. As coaches, it prompts us to consider whether the perceptions we hold of ourselves align with the judgments others make based on our track record.

Limiting Potential Based on External Perceptions:

The invitation to ponder extends beyond our personal reflections to the clients we guide. Are you, or your clients, constraining potential based on past achievements or failures? Longfellow’s quote prompts a critical examination of whether these judgments, whether self-imposed or externally influenced, are inadvertently hindering the exploration of new possibilities and personal growth.

The Liberation from Past Definitions:

Consider this: What if your past doesn’t dictate your future? What if the constraints we place on ourselves, fueled by judgments, are merely thought created illusions? Coaches are uniquely positioned to guide individuals through a transformative journey, challenging them to break free from the limitations of past achievements and embrace the boundless potential that lies ahead.

The Art of Predicting the Unpredictable:

Longfellow’s quote raises an intriguing question: What if we are simply bad at predicting the future or the duration it “should” take to achieve a goal? Coaches can facilitate a mindset shift by encouraging clients to relinquish rigid timelines and embrace the fluidity of progress. Sometimes, the most remarkable transformations unfold when we release the need for predetermined schedules and allow growth to take its organic course.

A Day Off from Self-Judgment:

As we navigate the complexities of self-judgment, here’s a Friday challenge: What if you took the day off from judging yourself? What if you granted yourself the grace to be a work in progress, free from the weight of past judgments? This simple act of self-compassion can pave the way for a renewed perspective and a more empowering journey ahead.

Conclusion:

In the spirit of Longfellow’s quote, let’s use this Friday as an opportunity for reflection and liberation. Release the shackles of self-judgment, challenge the constraints of past achievements, and embrace the infinite possibilities that lie beyond. As coaches, let’s guide ourselves and our clients toward a future untethered by judgments, where the journey is as important as the destination. Have a fantastic and judgment-free Friday!

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.