Today’s quote of the day is a proverb:

“Between saying and doing many a pair of shoes is worn out.” (Italian proverb)

In the world of coaching, we can frequently encounter individuals who find themselves caught in a cycle of talking about change without making any tangible progress. Today’s quote of the day perfectly encapsulates this dilemma: “Between saying and doing many a pair of shoes is worn out.” This Italian proverb serves as a poignant reminder that mere words can lead to a lot of talk without meaningful action. As coaches, it is our responsibility to guide our clients—and ourselves—towards overcoming this hurdle and fostering a culture of decisive actions.

So here are some coaching related thoughts prompted by todays proverb:

Unveiling Authentic Desires:

Identifying True Wants: As coaches, our first task is to discern whether the goals being discussed align with the individual’s authentic desires. Distinguishing between societal expectations and genuine aspirations is crucial for cultivating meaningful change.

Exploring Heartfelt Motivations: Encourage clients to explore their heartfelt motivations. Understanding the emotional connection to their goals provides a solid foundation for sustained commitment and determination, driving actions that align with their true selves.

Addressing Obstacles to Action:

Unraveling Perceived Barriers: Explore the barriers that hinder clients from taking tangible steps. By uncovering these perceived obstacles, coaches can offer targeted interventions, addressing the root causes of inaction and fostering a path towards progress.

Overcoming Inertia: Introduce the concept of inertia as a common hurdle. Commencing action, even with small steps, can break the cycle of stagnation. Emphasize the transformative power of momentum and how progress becomes easier with consistent movement.

Embracing the Overwhelm: For some, overwhelming challenges can be met with a flood of purposeful actions. Explore this approach, encouraging clients to immerse themselves in meaningful activities to counteract analysis paralysis and catalyze change.

Focusing on Immediate Steps:

Identifying the Next Action: Shift the focus from grand goals to the immediate next step. By identifying and completing this step, clients gain a sense of accomplishment, making subsequent actions clearer and more manageable.

Trusting the Process: Encourage a spontaneous approach, allowing subsequent actions to unfold naturally. Trusting the process and adapting as needed allows clients to respond authentically to the evolving dynamics of their journey.

The Role of Uncertainty:

Comfort in Not Knowing: Acknowledging the uncertainty in coaching conversations is essential. Get comfortable with not knowing the exact plan until the moment arises. Every client is unique, and their insights may lead to unexpected revelations that guide the coaching direction.

Foundermentally: Listening and Clarity: At its core, coaching revolves around listening and gaining clarity. Emphasize the importance of being present in the coaching conversation, understanding the client’s perspective, and allowing the direction to unfold organically.

Embracing the “When”: I encourage coaches to embrace not knowing the “when” until it naturally emerges in the conversation. Resisting the urge to pre-plan responses fosters a more authentic and pleasant coaching experience.

What did the proverb prompt for you with your coaching style and approach?

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 suppurt Jen offers here.