Monthly Archives: January 2024

Igniting Possibilities: Coaching Insights from a Dutch Proverb

23 January 2024 in quote tagged assumptions / coach / coaching / hard work / igniting possibilities / motivation / proverb / quote / spark

A watercolour image of a campfire burning 6 logs - green trees in the background. The fire is already alight and there is no indication of the igniting possibilities that were used.
Yellow flames with red outer edges can be seen and white smoke is drifting upwards.
The text across the top reads: "With hard work you can get fire out of a stone." (Dutch proverb)

Today’s coaching inspiration comes in the form of:

“With hard work, you can get fire out of a stone.” (Dutch proverb)

While the imagery of extracting fire from a stone might seem like a laborious task, the proverb encourages us to consider the value of persistence and hard work. As coaches, we often encounter clients facing challenging situations, and this proverb prompts us to explore the varied facets of effort and determination.

Beyond Flint and Stone:

Taking the proverb literally, creating fire from a stone using a flint requires skill and perseverance. However, it’s essential to recognize that hard work is not the only route to success. The evolution from flint and stone to matches, firelighters, and modern heating methods illustrates the progression of alternatives and innovation. The first lesson for coaches is that while hard work is a reliable path, it’s not the sole avenue, and there might be more efficient and enjoyable ways to achieve one’s goals – even if theyre not ones you are currently aware exist.

Challenging Assumptions:

The proverb also prompted me to think about challenging assumptions about the difficulty of a task based on past experiences. Just because something was challenging in the past does not guarantee the same level of difficulty in the future. Clients may be carrying the weight of past struggles, assuming that the road ahead will be just as arduous. Coaches can encourage a shift in perspective by exploring new skills, external resources, and alternative approaches that may make the journey smoother and more enjoyable. In a bigger picture perspective this can also be a discussion around the impact of what we think can have on our experience.

Reframing Effort and Enjoyment:

The proverb also encourages coaches to explore the concept of effort and its relationship with enjoyment. What if the pursuit of a goal, while requiring effort and time, could also be enjoyable? By reframing the narrative, clients can approach challenges with a more positive mindset, seeing the effort as a meaningful investment in their growth and success.

Supporting Clients and igniting possibilities:

As coaches, our role is to provide support, especially when clients feel disheartened or lack motivation. Reminding them of their potential, emphasizing progress, and helping them understand that the journey may have its challenges but is part of the transformative process can be empowering. Additionally, pointing to the “fire within” – that internal drive and passion – can reignite their sense of purpose and resilience.

Conclusion:

The Dutch proverb teaches us that while hard work is a commendable approach, it’s not the only one. As coaches, we have the opportunity to guide our clients in challenging assumptions, reframing their relationship with effort, and finding joy in the pursuit of their goals. By embracing the lessons embedded in this proverb, we can empower our clients to see possibilities, tap into their inner fire, and navigate their journeys with confidence.

How do you support your clients when they perceive a task as challenging or lacking in motivation? Share your insights below!

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.

Unveiling the Power of Words in Coaching: A Journey of Meaning and Connection

22 January 2024 in quote tagged Antisthenes / coach / coaching / language / meaning / quote / words

The background is a pink to purple ombre watercolour effect running from top left to bottom right. There are watercolour imahes of 3 open books with text that is not readable.
Over the books is a traditionally shaped round magnifying glass and handle. The text on the magnifying section reads "The investigation of the meaning of words is the begining of education." (Antisthenes)

Todays quote of the day is:

“The investigation of the meaning of words is the beginning of education,” (Antisthenes)

As coaches, understanding the depth and nuances of words empowers us to foster clearer communication and, in turn, drive transformative outcomes for our clients as we engage in an education about how the world looks for our clients.

The Challenge of Ambiguous Words:

How often do clients approach us with aspirations of gaining more confidence or achieving success? These seemingly straightforward expressions can be laden with diverse meanings depending on one’s perspective. The word “wisdom” is another prime example – a term frequently used but interpreted differently by each individual.

Acknowledging this challenge, I can find that at certain stages it is importatn for coaches to delve into the investigation of words and their meanings. This proactive approach sets the stage for enhanced clarity and ensures that both coach and client are on the same page, working towards a shared understanding of the client’s goals.

The Conversation of Clarification:

While not every coaching session necessitates a deep dive into word meanings, initiating conversations about language early on can be transformative. I often consider setting the tone by expressing the possibility of seeking clarification on certain words. This practice is not about doubting the client’s use of language but rather a commitment to ensuring alignment in interpretations, especially when these words become central to the coaching process.

As I often work with coaches who can fall down a rabbit hole of annalysing why I’m using the language I have or wondering if there’s a hiden meaning behind why I asked a question – I tend to address that early so less likley to be any noisy self doubt etc going on in my clients head distracting from our coaching conversation later. So mentioning I may clarify interpretations of what a word means for them can fall naturally into the same conversation.

The Exploration’s Impact on Communication:

Exploring words and their meanings can significantly improve the coach-client communication dynamic. By unraveling the layers of language, coaches can unveil the client’s unique perspectives and aspirations. This not only strengthens the connection between coach and client but also ensures that coaching conversations are grounded in a shared understanding.

The Path to Better Connection:

The exploration of words and language serves as a bridge that connects coaches with their clients on a deeper level. It allows for a more profound understanding of the client’s world and facilitates the creation of tailored coaching responses that resonate with their unique interpretation of key concepts.

Conclusion:

In the ever-evolving landscape of coaching, the investigation of words and their meanings emerges as a powerful tool for fostering effective communication and connection. As coaches, embracing the richness of language propels us towards a more profound understanding of our clients’ aspirations, ultimately paving the way for transformative personal growth.

So, how does the exploration of words and language impact your coaching practice? We’d love to hear your thoughts on this fascinating journey of meaning and connection.

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.

Embracing Humility: Nourishment for the Soul and Business Growth

21 January 2024 in quote tagged Anthony de Padus / coach / coaching / humility / quote / soul

A water colour wash of a purply sky and a wash of yellowy brown on the ground forms a back drop. A sturdy tree trunk with roots going into the ground and a canapy of green leaves is position on the right of the image.
The text taking up the bulk of the left and the centre of the image reads: "Just as the root feeds the tree, so humility feeds the soul. The spirit of humility is sweeter than honey, and whoever is fed by this sweetness produces fruit." (Anthony of Padua)

Todays quote of the day is:

“Just as the root feeds the tree, so humility feeds the soul. The spirit of humility is sweeter than honey, and whoever is fed by this sweetness produces fruit.” (Anthony of Padua)

In the intricate tapestry of coaching, the theme of humility emerges as a cornerstone, weaving its essence through leadership, personal growth, and the entrepreneurial journey. Anthony of Padua’s timeless words invite us to explore the profound connection between humility, the soul, and the flourishing of fruitful endeavors. Join me in a reflective exploration, delving into the impact of humility on coaching and business practices.

Humility in Coaching: A Pillar of Growth:

As coaches, we navigate the delicate balance of guiding others while recognizing our own strengths and limitations. How does humility manifest in your coaching practice? Have you witnessed its transformative power in your clients’ journeys of self-discovery?

Entrepreneurial Humility: Nurturing Business Growth:

For many coaches who tread the path of solo entrepreneurship, humility influences not only personal development but also business strategies. How has embracing humility impacted your business decisions, client relationships, or overall entrepreneurial journey?

The Sweetness of Humility: Feeding the Soul:

In the quote it is humility that is said to feed the soul. In your coaching journey, Is this something that resonates with your experiences? If not, and presusming the soul can be feed, what for you feeds the soul?.

Producing Fruit: The Fruits of Humility:

The analogy of the root feeding the tree, resulting in the production of fruit, suggests that humility is a catalyst for fruitful outcomes. What fruits have you witnessed in your coaching practice and business endeavors as a result of cultivating humility?

Open Dialogue: Humility in Focus:

Let’s open the dialogue on humility. How does this virtue shape your coaching philosophy? In the realm of solo entrepreneurship, how do you balance humility with asserting your unique value? Share your experiences, challenges, and triumphs.

Mutual Nourishment: Sharing Insights:

By sharing our insights on humility, we contribute to a collective wellspring of wisdom. How do you believe humility feeds the soul, and in turn, nurtures the growth of both individuals and businesses? Your perspective might be the key to unlocking inspiration for others.

In the spirit of humility, let’s embark on this collective exploration. Your thoughts and experiences add unique hues to the canvas of coaching and entrepreneurship. Let the dialogue begin! #HumilityInCoaching #BusinessGrowthJourney

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.

Empowerment Unveiled: Nurturing the Internal Remedy

20 January 2024 in quote tagged coach / coaching / knowledge / quote / Thomas Anstey Guthrie / wisdom

A Book lies open on a table. Whilst the pages it is open at are blank, there is a glow coming from other pages in the book. Surrounding the book are sparkling golden lights - the sort of illustration used to show magic is in the air.
The text above reads: "The knowledge that one has a remedy within reach is often as effectual as the remedy itself, if not more so." (Thomas Anstey Guthrie)

Today’s quote is:

“The knowledge that one has a remedy within reach is often as effectual as the remedy itself, if not more so.” (Thomas Anstey Guthrie)

In the delicate dance of coaching, Thomas Anstey Guthrie’s profound words echo the intrinsic power of self-awareness and the profound impact it holds. Depending upon your approach to coaching, our journey often transcends providing solutions; it’s about guiding our clients to unveil the reservoir of wisdom and remedies within themselves.

For me this quote resonates with my coaching philosophy and how I see clients begin to explore this and begin to shine as they trust that for themselves.

Self-Realisation: A Catalyst for Change:

The recognition that a remedy is within reach acts as a catalyst for change. It’s not merely about external solutions but about empowering individuals to tap into their internal resources. How do you foster an environment that encourages self-realization in your coaching practice?

Guiding Clients to Discover Their Own Solutions:

While our guidance is invaluable, the ultimate goal is to empower clients to discover their own solutions. How can we refine our coaching approach to inspire belief in their internal resources? Whilst there are many approaches I think a big one for me is to be unshakable in seeing that for myself. I’ve heard it described as many things over the years – holding onto the clients brilliance to their ready to take it for themsleves being one of the more descriptive ones.

Inspiring Confidence in Internal Wisdom:

Building confidence in internal wisdom is an art. It can involves unraveling layers of doubt and nurturing a belief in one’s abilities. It can also include shining a light in that diresction so that a client begins to recognise their wisdom and listens in whatever way their wisdom communicates.

The Impact of Knowing:

“The knowledge that one has a remedy within reach” is a potent force. How have you witnessed this knowledge influencing positive change in your clients’ lives? Share your success stories and insights into the transformative power of self-awareness.

How can we collectively enhance our coaching practices to better assist clients in identifying and harnessing their internal resources? Your thoughts and experiences contribute to the rich tapestry of insights that shape our coaching journey.

In the profound realisation that the remedy lies within, coaching transcends a mere transaction of guidance; it becomes a transformative journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Share your wisdom, and your experiences in the comments below.

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.

Cultivating a Tapestry of Change: The Power of Habits in Coaching

19 January 2024 in quote tagged coach / coaching / habits / quote

The background colour is close to that of an old parchment. There are two vertical borders set in slightly along the left and right edges. At the centre top is an ornate symetrical image of two flowers with a stem pointing up and to the nearest corner. Both the ornate flower flourish and the porder are in black - similar to a pen and ink style.
In the centre is text that reads: "In the conduct of life, habits count for more than maxims, because habit is a living maxim, becomes flesh and instinct. To reform one's maxims is nothing: it is but to change the title of the book. To learn new habits is everything, for it is to reach the substance of life. Life is but a tissue of habits." (Henri-Frédéric Amiel)

Todays quote is:

“In the conduct of life, habits count for more than maxims, because habit is a living maxim, becomes flesh and instinct. To reform one’s maxims is nothing: it is but to change the title of the book. To learn new habits is everything, for it is to reach the substance of life. Life is but a tissue of habits.” (Henri-Frédéric Amiel)

As we gracefully navigate the third week of 2024, it’s an opportune moment to reflect on the dance between resolutions and the formidable force of habits. Henri-Frédéric Amiel, a profound philosopher, invites us to ponder the significance of habits in the intricate conduct of life. Let’s unravel the threads of this quote and weave a narrative of continuous growth and transformation.

The Unraveling of Resolutions and the Emergence of Habits:

New Year’s resolutions often embark on our journeys with grand intentions, but as the days slip by, so can our resolutions. How many have found themselves in this familiar terrain? The allure of change lies not in reforming maxims like changing a book title but in the intricate dance of cultivating new habits. Every day is an opportunity for that to happen, not just the first of the year.

A Continuous Journey of Learning and Growth:

As coaches, we witness the ebb and flow of motivation in our clients. The initial surge can often encounters stumbling blocks perhaps as the novelty fades. One secret is in recognizing that it’s never too late. Each day presents a new canvas to paint the strokes of improvement and change. What habits are your clients striving to learn? Do you guide them through the journey of habit formation?

From our perspectives as coaches – what habis do you have as a coach? I know there’s certain things I always do at the start of a coaching session – initially out of habit but I found that they actually help to draw my clients focus into our conversation, particularly if they’ve arrived to our call in a flustered state. So now, its something that I do as a conscious choice. What about you? Do you have any coaching habits and if so have you consciously chosen to keep those habits?

Resilience Beyond Resolution:

Resolutions may slip through our fingers, but the journey to instill new habits endures. The significance lies not in the speed of change but in the commitment to shaping a life adorned with purposeful habits. Every habit formed, no matter when, contributes to the beautiful tapestry of one’s life.

Navigating Client Challenges:

As coaches, do you observe specific points where clients stumble after their initial surge of motivation? How do you address these challenges and guide them back onto the path of habit formation? Share your insights and strategies in the comments below.

In the grand tapestry of life, habits weave the threads that form the substance of our existence. Embrace each day as an opportunity to learn, grow, and cultivate habits that resonate with the life you envision. Feel free to share your thoughts in the coment section below.

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.

Embracing the Ripple Effect: The Power of Small Acts of Kindness

18 January 2024 in quote tagged Aesop / coach / coaching / kindness / quote

This image has a background of watercoloured shades of greeens with a shades of brown in a band like soil across the bottom. an out stretched arm and hand with fingers outstretched has a painted heart balanced on top -similar to a pose you may find someone holding still with a butterfly on their hand. The text reads "No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted." (The lion and the mouse, Aesop)

Today’s quote of the day is:

“No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.” (Aesop, The Lion and the Mouse)

In the bustling world of coaching, where transformative conversations and personal growth take center stage, it’s easy to overlook the profound impact of the simplest gestures. Today’s quote, a timeless nugget from Aesop’s fables, gently whispers a universal truth – every act of kindness, no matter its size, holds the potential to create a ripple effect of positivity.

The Unseen Power of Small Acts:

As coaches, we navigate the intricate tapestry of human experiences. In a quest for catalysing change and fostering growth, let’s not forget the potency of small, everyday acts of kindness. A smile, a compliment, a helping hand, or a listening ear – these seemingly mundane gestures might be the key to unlocking profound transformations for our clients and ourselves.

Kindness Beyond Boundaries:

Pause for a moment and reflect: What act of kindness could you perform today? A simple gesture that might go unnoticed by many but could mean the world to the person on the receiving end. Whether it’s within the coaching session or in your day-to-day interactions, explore the limitless possibilities of infusing kindness into every encounter.

I was reflecting upon kindness in a coaching session and because its not a label I specifically think about whilst I’m coaching it tool me a moment to think of examples that easily could fall into such a label. he intention behind asking a question gently that you suspect that a client may find difficult or coming from a none judgemental position when a client realises the complete innocence behind something they just got clarity about. Then there were the experiences as a potential client where I’d encountered great no-pressure kindness supoorting me before I’d even signed onto be a client.

What we may not give a moments thought about can be viewed by another as showing great kindness and be appreciated far more than we may realise. Though most of the instances I can think about to do with coaching all boils down to being connected with working from a space where a client feels safe and comfortable asking for support, connecting to their own inner wisdom, ensuring that anything they commit to is actually something they want to do. However, most of all it just seems the natural space to work from.

Kindness to Self – A Vital Element:

In the pursuit of spreading kindness, let’s not overlook the importance of being kind to ourselves. If your first thought wasn’t an act of kindness directed inward, ponder on what you could do today to show yourself some love. Recognize that, just like the ripples from a stone thrown into a pond, self-kindness has the power to echo outward, influencing your coaching practice and relationships.

Share Your Kindness Stories:

Have you experienced or witnessed the magic of small acts of kindness in your coaching journey? Whether you were the giver or the receiver, your stories have the potential to warm hearts and inspire. Let’s create a collective tapestry of kindness – share your anecdotes, reflections, and insights in the comments below.

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.

Energising Coaching: Unveiling the Wealth in Giving

17 January 2024 in quote tagged coach / coaching / energising / energy / quote / Sarah Bernhardt

The background of this image is blocks of pastels and natural colours so shades of greens, yellow, red and blues. In the centre is a white space with the following quote: "Life engenders life. Energy creates energy. It is by spending oneself that one becomes rich." (Sarah Bernhardt)

Today’s quote is:

“Life engenders life. Energy creates energy. It is by spending oneself that one becomes rich.” (Sarah Bernhardt)

Do you agree with this quote? How does it relate to your coaching approach? There are numerous coaching methodologies, each unique and valid. I’m not here to impose judgments on your approach, but rather, let’s explore the resonance of this quote within the diverse landscape of coaching philosophies. I invite you to consider how it relates to you and your coaching.

The Assumption Trap:

This quote prompts contemplation on assumptions we might make in coaching. Have you ever refrained from asking a question or exploring a topic because you assumed it wasn’t relevant to your client’s context? It’s crucial to differentiate between making assumptions and respecting your client’s explicit preferences. Are you giving your clients the option to explore all dimensions, or are you unintentionally limiting the scope?

My personal take is that I think I do my clients a dis-service not to give them a choice. Depending upon the client, and in all honesty sometimes it has just as much to do with my insecure thinking around a topic, I may include something in our initial conversation or first session. So I may word it along the lines of “It may be that at some point – for example if you don’t bring a topic to the session, I will invite you to look at a topic you have no interest in exploring – that’s OK in that situation we can easily look at something else instead I just don’t want to presume and make an assumption to skip having a conversation that may be of value to you. I want you to know at this stage that its OK to be honest, in fact that’s my prefered way of ensuring you get the most from our work together.”

Navigating the Energy Terrain:

For coaches, the concept of energy can be multifaceted. Do you incorporate discussions around energy into your coaching practice? How do you frame it? Is there a balance between acknowledging energy levels without veering into territory you and/or your clients perceive as “woo-woo” or spiritual, especially in certain professional settings? Is this something you’ve encountered? You’re welcome to share your experiences in engaging with the concept of energy in your coaching sessions in the coments.

Energising coaching

Do your clients report that they find that they are energised after a coaching session with you? What do you make of that?

Personally, I get a lot of feedback, particularly when we first start, that clients feel like a wight has been lifted off their shoulders or they feel more energised after coaching. This makes sense to me as often during the session clarity is found and all that muddy thinking, which often has a draining feeling to it, settles down. So clients notice their natural underlying energy, motivation etc far easier when all that muddy thinking isnt drowning that out..But that’s my coaching, style and approach – what about you? What’s your experience?

Wealth in Giving:

Reflect on instances in your coaching journey when you invested energy and witnessed the tangible outcomes. Does this quote resonate with those experiences? How do you interpret the concept of ‘becoming rich’ through the act of spending oneself? Are there stories or insights you can share that align with the essence of this quote?

Does this quote inspire a coaching question or technique for you? Perhaps it prompts a reflection on the reciprocal nature of energy in coaching relationships. Share your coaching-related insights sparked by this quote.

Join the Conversation:

I invite you to join the conversation! Share your thoughts, experiences, and reflections in the comments below. How does this quote align with your coaching philosophy? .

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.

Unlocking Success in Coaching: Navigating the ‘Right Lock’

16 January 2024 in quote tagged coach / coaching / proverb / quote

The background is a big tower surrounded by lots of dastened padlocks. The image suggests that the tower continues above and below what we can see and is also broader than we can see at the bottom of this image. I would estimate that ther are easily 1000's of padlocks in this image - and that's presuming that there are not layers below what is visible to the human eye. Finding a unique match between a unique key and padlock so there is unlocking success would certainly take some time!
The text on this image reads "The key to success isn't much good until one discovers the right lock to put it in." (Chinese proverb)

Today’s quote is:

“The key to success isn’t much good until one discovers the right lock to put it in.” – Chinese Proverb

I think that there us an art and a science to coaching. Which means that at times it can feel that there is an intricate dance of coaching, I don’t mean that it has to be “hard”, there can be an ease rather like if muscle memorary kicks in. I reffer to responding “in real time” as the conversation unfolds. This proverb, urges us to explore the alignment between our unique ‘key to success’ and the elusive ‘right lock’ it fits into. Let’s talk specifically about how this relates to unlocking success in coaching and how it resonates with your coaching methodologies.

Guiding Individuals to Their Unique ‘Key to Success’:

As coaches, many of us see our role as guides, assisting individuals in uncovering their distinctive ‘key to success.’ This may involve a deep exploration of passions, talents, and values, intricately aligned with personal goals and aspirations. How do you approach this discovery process in your coaching practice?

Recognizing the ‘Right Lock’:

The proverb prompts contemplation on how we recognize the ‘right lock.’ Is it marked by a surge of passion, a self-propelling drive, and an unwavering sense of fulfillment? Do you look for your clients to wake up each day motivated and excited, even in the face of challenges? Share your insights on identifying the resonant ‘lock’ in your coaching interactions.

Different Focus, Different Reports:

For coaches with diverse focuses, what do your clients ideally report back after working with you? Whether it’s navigating professional transitions, enhancing leadership skills, or fostering personal growth, understanding the impact from your client’s perspective can be a big key!

Crafting Your Coaching Style:

The essence of the proverb extends to how we, as coaches, navigate our own coaching journeys. It emphasizes the power of individualism, acknowledging that finding the ‘right lock’ involves trying and adapting. If you’re in the process of refining your coaching style, know that it’s a natural evolution. Share your experiences and insights on shaping your unique coaching approach in the comments below.

Beware of Forcing Keys:

The cautionary note in the proverb resonates with the potential pitfalls of rushing the process. Momentary progress can be mistaken for lasting success. How do you stay true to your core values, your guided path, and resist the temptation to force the ‘key’ into the wrong ‘lock’? Share your approach for navigating this delicate balance.

Embrace the Journey of unlocking success:

The journey to find the ‘right lock’ is a nuanced exploration. Embrace the process, stay true to your values, and let the unfolding chapters guide you. Share your thoughts, reflections, and experiences in the comments below.

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.