Monthly Archives: January 2024

Navigating the Terrain of Thoughts

15 January 2024 in quote tagged coach / coaches / coaching / quote / reflection / Thought / wisdom

This image has a patchwork watercoloured background of navys and purples. 8 thought bubbles with a white background surrounds a larger central thought/ speach bubble. The outside thought bubbles cntains circles of different shades of either red, green, blue or yellow.
The central thought bubble contains the following text: "First thoughts are not always the best." (Vittorio Alfieri)

Todays coaching quote is:

“First thoughts are not always the best.” (Vittorio Alfierl)

In the fast-paced realm of coaching and entrepreneurship, decisions are often swift, and first impressions carry weight, whilst some prefer to naturally reflect. As we embark on this exploration, let’s delve into the intricacies of navigating the nuanced terrain between initial reactions, thoughtful responses and where wisdom fits in with all of this.

The Dichotomy of Snap Judgments and Deliberate Responses:

It’s an all too familiar scenario – faced with rapid decisions and quick judgments. Alfieri’s words invite us to pause and consider the dichotomy between our instinctual, knee-jerk reactions and the more deliberate, thoughtful responses. How do you discern between the two in your coaching practice and entrepreneurial journey?

Personally I don’t thik judging an initial reaction or a thought out response to be better than the other is that useful. I think both can have their place given the circumstances. I do think it can be useful for you to be aware of that and not give either more weight than the other.

Unraveling the Threads of Inner Wisdom:

Last Wednesday, we pondered the essence of wisdom. Now, let’s contemplate how today’s quote intertwines with the fabric of our inner wisdom. What language do you employ to articulate the difference between a fleeting first thought and the resonating echo of inner wisdom? How do you distinguish the impulse from the profound and the simple known certainty?

For me there’s a differnt feel to that but that doesn’t mean that your experience will be the same – I’ve found its unique for you, so there is no right or wrong answer to this one – just your current answer.

Resonance with Coaching Philosophy:

I heard coaching described recently as guardians of transformation and growth. Wether thats a description you are comfortable describing how you work I think many coaches inherently navigate between immediate insights and nuanced understanding and reflection. How does Alfieri’s wisdom resonate with your coaching philosophy? Does it prompt a reevaluation or fortification of aspects within your coaching practice?

Embracing the Pause for Enriched Insights:

As a coach I’m sure you’ve had occasions where a client has taken a pause to just be silent before answering a question. Its like they fall into a space between stimulus and response where thoughtful reflection and insights occur. This interval allows for a more profound understanding and richer insights. In your coaching interactions and business decisions, how do you cultivate or spend time in this space for enriched responses?

Share your thoughts 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.

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.

Crafting a Legacy of Honor: A Coaching Perspective

14 January 2024 in quote tagged coach / coaching / legacy / quote

This is a watercolour image green grass with shrubery and trees in the background. The sky is partially red and and the rest is a nights sky with stars. in the foreground is a figure with their back to us. In a speach bubble is a quote about legacy: "In short, I wanted to live honourably as long as I lived, and leave behind, for the people who would come after me, the memory of me in good works." (Alfred the Great)

Today’s guiding quote is:

“In short, I wanted to live honourably as long as I lived, and leave behind, for the people who would come after me, the memory of me in good works.” (Alfred the Great)

In the tapestry of life, actions can weave the threads that shape our legacy.

Defining ‘Good Works’:

One of the things this quote points towards is contemplating the essence of ‘good works.’ This term is subjective, taking on different hues for each individual, and even different meanings given the situation. It may manifest as acts of kindness, monumental societal contributions, or a blend of both. What resonates with you as ‘good works’? How could you interpret this call to action if you choose to impliment it with regards to your coaching practice?

Taking Steps Today:

The beauty lies in the immediacy of Alfred’s aspiration. What steps can we take today to lead an honorable life and create a legacy that reverberates through generations? It’s an invitation to introspect and consider the tangible actions that contribute to this noble cause. As coaches, how do our daily endeavors align with this vision?

One of the things I find rewarding about coaching, and especially working with other new coaches to stop hiding their coaching and work with “real people”, is the “ripple effect”. The feedback about how those coaching interactions with a client means that they go out and take that into their own lives impacting others around them.

So many people supported me when I was first starting out that the reason I still offer complimentary discovery sessions is as a way to “pay it forward”. Whilst, some who schedule a discovery session do become clients at some stage in the future – its not my motivation for still offering those sessions. My motivation is about providing support in that session so that another coach actually goes out and uses their skills with “real people.” Whilst my schedule may influence how many I can offer, I enjoy offering them so will continue to offer them until it seems a good idea to stop!

Reflection and Discussion:

Now, let’s engage in a dialogue. How do you define ‘good works,’ and what actions can you undertake today or this week to embody this definition? Does your coaching practice seamlessly integrate with your pursuit of ‘good works,’ or do you perceive them as separate realms?

Is Coaching Part of Your Positive Legacy?

Consider the transformative impact coaching can have on individuals and, by extension, society. How does your coaching practice contribute to creating a positive legacy? Do you see coaching as a powerful vehicle for fostering ‘good works’ and leaving an indelible mark on the tapestry of humanity?

Conclusion:

Alfred’s timeless wisdom echoes through the ages, urging us to live honorably and imprint our existence with ‘good works.’ As coaches, let’s embrace this call to action. Share your thoughts, reflections, on what this quote prompted for you 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.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.

Navigating the Mind’s Social Gathering: A Coaching Perspective

13 January 2024 in quote tagged coaching / quote / Thomas Bailey Aldrich / thoughts

Todays quote of the day is:

“A man is known by the company his mind keeps.” – Thomas Bailey Aldrich

First, a nod to language: While respecting its historical context, let’s acknowledge the inclusive shift: “An individual is known by the company their mind keeps.” The book where this quote can be found was first published in 1903. For the sake of clarity I’m interpreting this quote to mean humans in general rather than it being a odd quirk that only applys to the male proportion of the worlds population!

In the dance of our daily lives, our thoughts can play a significant role in shaping our experiences and interactions.

The Impact of Thoughts on Feelings and Interactions:

At its core, this quote prompts us to contemplate the profound connection between our thoughts, feelings, and interactions. Have you ever noticed how a simple thought can trigger a cascade of emotions? Picture a sad thought, and suddenly, you feel a wave of sadness. Envision an argument in your mind, and its subtle effects might unconsciously seep into your interactions with others.

From Seeking Better “Company” to a Fresh Perspective:

Reflecting on my coaching journey, I recall a phase where my emphasis was on finding better “company” for the mind. However, as understanding deepened, a fresh perspective emerged. Visualize your thoughts as guests at a lively festive party. Some, like old friends, bring familiarity and comfort. Others may be less welcome, but playing the gracious host, you acknowledge their temporary stay. Just like guests, thoughts can overstay, but the key lies in recognizing that you don’t need to forcibly evict them. Left to their own devices, they graciously make space for new, different company.

The Festive Season Analogy:

Consider the festive season analogy—thoughts, akin to energetic guests, may make their presence felt before conscious awareness. Left to their own devices, they carry on with their “day.” Perhaps you know someone who always wears a unique scent – you may not have seen them but you know theyre around if you smell that scent. I find some thoughts are like that I may not consciously have been aware of the thought but can tell by its unique feeling that its been around. How does this reshape your approach to managing the diverse thoughts in your mental soiree?

Are Techniques to Change Thoughts Useless? A Different Perspective:

Now, you might wonder if this perspective renders techniques to change thoughts useless. Far from it. I present an alternative viewpoint inspired by today’s quote. Embracing this led me to naturally ease off on techniques. They remain in my toolkit, ready if ever needed, yet the shift unfolded organically. Your coaching journey might unfold differently, and that’s the beauty of diverse perspectives.

Thouhts about the mind’s social gathering?

What insights or fresh thoughts does this quote spark in your coaching practice? Share your thoughts, experiences, and alternative perspectives 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.

Navigating the Coaching Odyssey: Wisdom in Every Footprint

12 January 2024 in quote tagged Amos Bronson Alcott / coach / coaching / prudence / quote / wisdom

This is an image in a watercolour style. A print of two feet in navy is in the centre of the image. The heals of each print slightly over lap so that it forms more of a v shape and where you would expect there to have been more weight distributed the colour is darker. There is a white background that forms an offset oval shape leaning to the left. Outside of that are different shades of green still in the watercolour style.
Between the two feet next to the big toes is a round navy shape with white spots that looks like it could represent a planet.
The text reads "Prudence is the footprint of Wisdom." (Amos Bronson Alcott)

Today’s quote of the day is:

“Prudence is the footprint of Wisdom.” (Amos Bronson Alcott)

As coaches, we navigate the complex landscape of guiding others through self-discovery and growth. For me, the bit that currently stands out in this quote is the mention of wisdom.

The Dynamic Evolution of Coaching Perspectives:

In the realm of coaching, the quote serves as a reminder of the ever-evolving nature of our perspectives. I think that coaching is a dynamic practice, and the ability to embrace change and evolution is not just acceptable but fundamental. The freedom to change our approaches and strategies over time is not only liberating but also essential for staying attuned to the evolving needs of our clients as well as our own lives.

The reason I am mentioning this in this post is because I suspect that in the past I would have been spending far more time focusing upon the pridence part of this quote. Currently, its wisdom that stands out to me when it comes to considering the quote in respect to coaching.

Empowering Coaches to Evolve:

I encourage you to allow yourself the freedom to have the possibility that in the future you can change your mind. This flexibility is not a sign of indecision but a testament to the adaptability and growth inherent in coaching. As the coaching landscape transforms, our ability to evolve allows us to better serve our clients and respond to the ever-changing demands of the coaching journey.

For example, one of the places that I see coaches often get stuck when they start out is trying to decide upon a niche – but from a position that whatever they decide now is then set in stone and they will never be allowed to work with anyone else who does not fit the niche they define. This usually results in total indecision and not actually coaching anyone. Now, I’m not saying don’t choose a niche, my suggestion is don’t put yourself under added pressure of never adapting how you work in the future so it must be perfect first time!

It’s possible that in the future if I was to look at this quote again I may very well have an entirely different perspective and would write a very different post but for now lets talk more about wisdom.

Decoding the Language of Wisdom in Coaching:

Alcott’s quote, for me, prompts an exploration of the language of wisdom in the context of coaching. Wisdom, becomes the guiding force that emerges from a space of safety and comes with the best interests of our clients.

Whilst there’s no doubt when coaching I relly on my own wisdom at times as a guide towards what to ask thats not the element I want to focus more upon. I’m far more interested in pointing my clients in a direction so that they access their own wisdom. As they get a feel for what that feels like so that they can recognise it for themsleves it is something that they can take with them long after we have finsihed working together.

Wisdom as the Guiding Light:

For me a description of wisdom is a guiding light that helps us navigate the complex labyrinth of life. Whilst sometimes it does act like a light house giving warning to avoid rocks ahead it also can act as a guide towards a previously unseen path. For me, theres a feel to that wisdom – its very differnt to if my “ego” is having an opinion on something. It’s a knowing, but without the feeling of needing to be right. There’s a sense of having your best interst at heart but offered from a place of unconditional acceptance.

This is a topic that is talking about something that doesn’t have a physical form, and sometimes that means finding the words to describe the experience is not as clear cut as describing a phyical product to someone so that they can imeediatly identify it and it pick up from the local shop.What is it for you and how does that effect your coaching?

Remember that you are allowed to change your mind in the future so if you do attempt to describe what its like for you now then its not the one and only description that you are tied to using for eternity. Is there an interplay between wisdom and prudence for you? Does it become a dynamic dance, enriching the coaching experience and fostering meaningful transformations? Or is it soemthing that desn’t really come into play with your approach to coaching?

Join the Coaching Conversation:

Now, it’s your turn, fellow coaches. How does Alcott’s quote resonate with your coaching practice? How do you perceive the interplay between wisdom and prudence in the coaching journey – is there any interplay? Can you tell when wisdom “shows up”? Share your thoughts, 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.

Unraveling the Tapestry of Ultra-Busy Lives: A Coaching Perspective

11 January 2024 in quote tagged busyness / coach / coaching / delegation / quote / support systems / time management / ultra-busy

A drawing of a tidy work desk with folders etc neatly arranged on shelves. An empty chair is pushed in under the desk. Behind the desj is a graph where the trend is generally upwards and 5 round clock faces all showing different times. The text reads: "Perhaps, after all, there is something in the theory that only the ultra-busy can find time for everything." (James Agate)

Today’s quote of the day:

“Perhaps, after all, there is something in the theory that only the ultra-busy can find time for everything.” (James Agate)

As coaches, this quote invites us to explore the intricate balance between managing a myriad of tasks and finding time for personal growth and development. Let’s unravel the layers of this thought-provoking statement and consider its implications for our coaching practice.

Coaching the Ultra-Busy:

If you have a coaching niche, you might find yourself working with individuals who juggle a multitude of responsibilities yet somehow manage to carve out time for their own development. On the flip side, some clients may come to you precisely because they feel they don’t have enough time, and they seek support in navigating the complexities of their busy lives.

Then there is the aspect of you as a business owner – are you trying to juggle everything yourself? Is that a conscious choice or because you think it is how it “should” be done?

Support Systems and Delegation:

From my observations those who consider themselves ultra-busy often have support teams and systems in place. This is a crucial aspect to ponder as coaches. Are our clients thriving in their busyness because they have effective support structures, or are they struggling to manage everything on their own? Exploring this dynamic can uncover opportunities for coaching interventions. I find that sometimes cclients will be very open about if they are struggling, whilst others may feel a sense of shame and not be as open to admitting that – to themselves as much as to you, especially if you are in the early stages of your coaching relationship.

The Illusion of Busyness:

Another facet illuminated by the quote is the illusion of busyness. Some individuals who perceive themselves as ultra-busy may spend a considerable amount of time in mental gymnastics—trying to work things out in their heads. The repetitiveness of this internal struggle can become a barrier to progress and growth. As coaches, we have the opportunity to guide clients towards more effective and sustainable approaches to time management and decision-making. Not to mention freeing on mental space to access their own wisdom rather than constantly worrying at a specific issue like a dog with a bone.

Recognizing Human Limits:

While the ultra-busy may seem superhuman in their ability to manage multiple tasks, it’s essential to remember that even they have human limitations. The quote serves as a gentle reminder that there’s a threshold beyond which adding more to an already brimming schedule can lead to dropping whatever is being juggled. Exploring this with clients fosters a realistic and sustainable approach to personal and professional commitments.

Reflecting on Your Practice:

As a coach, reflect on how this quote resonates with your coaching practice. How do you navigate the complexities of working with clients who perceive themselves as ultra-busy? If a client shared this perspective during a coaching session, how would you respond? What insights can you extract from this quote to enhance your coaching approach and support clients in optimizing their time and energy? Is this post and quote a nudge to look at something around your coaching business that

Join the Conversation:

Share your thoughts in the comments below. Do you resonate with this perspective on ultra-busy lives? Why or why not? Let’s engage in a meaningful conversation and uncover valuable insights that can enrich our coaching practice in the ever-evolving landscape of busy lives.

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.

Nurturing Aspirations: Guiding Clients on a Journey of Belief and Beauty

10 January 2024 in quote tagged aspirations / coach / coaching / desire / goals / Louisa May Alcott / quote

A warm glowing from the sun is in the top left with a blue sky and fluffy clouds. On the right hand side of the image are two tall radient sunflowers growing towards the sun.
The text reads "Far away in the sunshine are my highest aspirations. I may not reach them, but I can look up and see their beauty, believe in them, and try to follow where they lead." (Louisa May Alcott)

Today’s quote of the day:

“Far away in the sunshine are my highest aspirations. I may not reach them, but I can look up and see their beauty, believe in them, and try to follow where they lead.” (Louisa May Alcott)

As coaches, we resonate with the profound journey of guiding our clients towards their highest aspirations—those radiant beacons that light their path towards self-realization.

Distinguishing Aspirations, Desires, and Goals:

In the coaching landscape, the terms “aspiration,” “desire,” and “goal” often intermingle. I selected this quote as a prompt to ponder if clients are articulating their highest aspirations or merely expressing momentary desires. Do you find that clients sometimes present what seems like a logical next step rather than revealing what lies beyond? Reflecting on these distinctions can deepen our understanding of our clients’ true yearnings and guide them towards aspirations that resonate on a profound level.

Personally I find there is a very different feel and look when a client is talking about what they really want rather than, for example, settling for what they think they should do next. I like the imagery of sunshine with regards to this as there is a warmth and light that I associate with witnessing this, and when I’m in the position of a client – experiencing.

The Beauty and Joy in Aspirations:

At the heart of Alcott’s words lies a reminder of the beauty and joy encapsulated in our clients’ aspirations. These are not just waypoints on a journey; they are the sunlit dreams that fuel their commitment to self-discovery and growth. As coaches, it’s a privilege to witness and honor the depth of these aspirations, appreciating the unique radiance each client brings to their coaching journey.

The Faith Clients Place in Us:

I think that this quote also underscores the implicit trust clients place in us as guides. They reveal their highest aspirations, vulnerable and hopeful, seeking our support in navigating the path ahead. Sometimes its a revelation to themselves at the same time that they share with you. Recognizing the sacred nature of this trust invites us to approach coaching with a deep sense of responsibility and a commitment to fostering an environment where these aspirations can flourish.

The Journey of Belief:

The coaching journey for many is about possibility — the belief in the possibility of reaching those faraway aspirations. As a coach for me its not just about the destination but providing support on the route there, because the journey itself can be transformative. It’s the collective endeavor to follow where aspirations lead, embracing the growth, learning, and self-discovery along the way.

Opening the Discussion:

Now, it’s your turn. How does Alcott’s quote resonate with your coaching practice? How do you navigate between aspirations, desires, and goals with your clients? Is there a difference for you? Share your thoughts, experiences, 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.

Embracing Play in Coaching: Learning Beyond Words

9 January 2024 in quote tagged coaching / play / playfulness / proverb / quote

A drawing of group of children are playing and splashing around in water watched on by a woman. The text above reads "An hour of play discovers more than a year of conversation does." (Portuguese Proverb)

Today’s quote of the day,is actually a proverb:

“An hour of play discovers more than a year of conversation does.” (Portuguese proverb)

This timeless wisdom resonates deeply with me in the realm of my approach to coaching because it underscores the transformative power of experiential learning and the importance of infusing playfulness into the coaching journey.

Beyond Theory and Conversation:

We’ve all encountered situations where theoretical knowledge and lengthy conversations fall short in comparison to hands-on experience. The proverb suggests that the richness of discovery during an hour of play surpasses what a year of conversation can offer. As coaches, this insight is a gentle reminder that sometimes, experience becomes the most potent teacher, or at the very least part of the learning experience.

The Nudge to Try:

In coaching conversations, there often comes a point where a gentle nudge is needed to encourage trying something new. The idea is not to achieve perfection instantly but to step into the arena of action and learning. Standing still, paralyzed by the fear of imperfection, is a hindrance to progress. Embracing the willingness to experiment and refine is key to continuous growth. Over the years I’ve had many a conversation where a new coach asks if a particular thing will work for their coaching practice – my answer is often a variation of “Try it and see.” The response I get is often some version of “Am I allowed to do that?”

So I’ve decided, as an experiment, to be more public about new things I’m trying out, in the hope that even if you’re not drawn to any particular solution I’m offering it may just give you a nudge to think about what you could experiment with yourself. If you like a nudge to see what you could play with in your coaching. (For anyone interested in my current experiments you can read more here.)

Playfulness in Coaching:

For me, the spirit of play and experimentation is closely tied to coaching. Exploring from a space of lightness can lead to a very different and more creative experience. It’s an invitation to break free from the constraints of overthinking and embrace the joy of discovering solutions through hands-on engagement.

A Different Experience with Play:

Coaching from the perspective of play can create a refreshing dynamic to how many people try and approach “figuring something out.”. When the coaching process is approached with a sense of fun, I find it opens the door to innovative thinking and novel solutions. It allows clients to explore possibilities without the weight of rigid expectations, fostering an environment where creativity thrives.

The Invitation to Embrace Play:

Today’s invitation is to remember the significance of play in the coaching journey. Embrace those moments of exploration, experimentation, and even failure, knowing that each experience contributes to genuine discovery and learning. Stepping out of the comfort zone becomes an empowering act, and imperfection is not a stumbling block but a stepping stone.

Share Your Thoughts:

Feel free to share your thoughts on this proverb and its implications for how you coach. What does it prompt for you in the context of coaching? Have you experienced the transformative power of play in your coaching relationships? Your insights and experiences are welcome 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.

Beyond the Comfort Zone: Coaching and the Courage from Within

8 January 2024 in quote tagged Aesop / coach / coaching / comfort zone / courage / quote / Thought

A silhuted figure is stood with their back to the viewer. There is a glowing light source in front of them. A break in some clouds reveals the golden light source against a gainst a greeny blue sky. There are clouds that look like they are parting towards the light source from where the individual is stood. The clouds get darker towards the side of the image and the bottom to corners of the image is black. The text above the light source reads "It is easy to be brave from a safe distance." (Aesop)

Today’s quote of the day is:

“It is easy to be brave from a safe distance.” (Aesop)

Today’s quote of the day by Aesop appealed to me with regards to the with the world of coaching as I think it points to the experience many clients can feel at some point in the process.

Courage in Uncomfortable Spaces:

In the realm of coaching, clients often seek support precisely because they find themselves in uncomfortable situations or are challenging the norms that they feel have defined their lives. It’s easy to be brave when the challenges are at a safe distance, but I feel its imprortant to acknowledge the courage that emerges when faced with any discomfort of personal growth and change. Coaches play a pivotal role in creating a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore these uncharted territories.

Understanding the Battles:

A key aspect of coaching is recognising that everyone is fighting their own battles. Clients bring their fears, uncertainties, and challenges to the coaching relationship, seeking guidance on how to navigate them. Establishing trust and providing support I feel are essential components of coaching. Approaching each client with an open mind, actively listening to their stories, and standing by them as they take what can feel like a leap of faith contributes to the transformative power of coaching. I often think that part of my job description can include a profesional hand holder – providing reassurance if a “wobble” occurs.

Empathy and Perception:

While it’s crucial not to entirely adopt a client’s perception of a situation, empathy remains a powerful tool in coaching. Even if a challenge seems less intimidating from the coach’s perspective, understanding and acknowledging the client’s perception fosters a deeper connection. It’s an invitation to empathize with their feelings and fears, creating a more compassionate coaching relationship.

The Safety of Our Thoughts:

Aesop’s quote also prompts reflection on the ways we can scare ourselves with our thinking. Even when physically safe, we are quite capable of thinking stories that induce fear and anxiety. Coaches and those on the journey of self-improvement can explore the impact of thoughts and those narratives, recognizing that sometimes the greatest hurdles are the stories we tell ourselves.

Prompting Personal Reflection:

Now, it’s your turn. What does Aesop’s quote inspire in you? How does it resonate with your experiences in coaching or even personal development in general? Share your thoughts and reflections 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.