Monthly Archives: February 2024

Finding Inner Peace: Reflections on Pythagoras’ Wisdom and Self-Acceptance

 in quote  tagged coach / coaches / coaching / Pythagoras / quote / rest / self-acceptance
This is an illustration of a boat floating on a calm lake. In the distance on the skyline you can see some rolling hills whick are reflected on the lakes water. A warm glow is coming from the sun in a clear blue sky with the occasional whispy white cloud. The text reads: "Rest satisfied with doing well, and leave others to talk of you as they please." (Pythagoras)

Today’s quote is:

“Rest satisfied with doing well, and leave others to talk of you as they please.” (Pythagoras)

Three elements lept out at me with this quote. First I wonder how many read this and focused upon their feelings towards the author? Did your mind wander to any familiarity with mathematics and Pythagorean theorem? If so, did your feelings towards that overshadowing the message behind the quote itself?

Half of my universary degree was in mathematics. For some people hearing that would produce an almost comical reaction – it was as if I had grown an extra head or something. They just couldn’t comprehend why I would voluntarily have chosen that as a subject. Whilst I could write a lot about my opinions of how many education systems turn kids off from mathematics, thats not the topic of today’s post. I will stick to saying I know that many people have negative connotations with the subject. So I wondered if the quote was by someone who many associate with the mathematics schooling, would it “hit” differently?

I suspect that could be a topic for a blog post in its own right. But for today I’m just going to highlight it as a possibility and invite you to take a second, fresh look at the quote and notice what occurs to you.

Secondly, the notion of ‘rest’ in Pythagoras’ words struck a chord within me. It reminded me of those moments of tranquility, where the cacophony of thoughts fades into silence, akin to the serene moments before drifting into sleep. In these instances, there’s a sense of neither satisfaction nor dissatisfaction; rather, it’s a state of pure being.

I happened to read this quote at the end of a “long day”, it prompted me to take a moment to “rest” in that stillness, as best I could and see what I knew to do. Amidst the chaos of a busy day, finding solace in these quiet moments can offer valuable insights into our inner needs and desires.

Self-Acceptance: Reflecting on Pythagoras’ Wisdom

Today’s quote by Pythagoras invites us to explore the concept of self-acceptance and find contentment in our actions. Which is why the third aspect that stood out to me in Pythagoras’ quote is the fear of judgment. It’s a sentiment that seems to resonates deeply, especially in today’s society where the fear of being scrutinized and criticized often holds us back from fully embracing ourselves and our potential. In my interactions with clients, I’ve noticed a recurring theme recently of apprehension towards judgment, whether it be from peers, colleagues, or even from within themselves. This fear of judgment can be paralyzing, hindering our ability to express ourselves authentically and pursue our passions wholeheartedly.

As coaches, I feel that its an important part of my work that I do what I can create a safe and non-judgmental space for our clients, where they feel empowered to explore their thoughts, emotions, and aspirations freely. By fostering an environment of acceptance and understanding, we can help alleviate the fear of judgment and encourage our clients to embrace their true selves even if it seems to them they need confidence and courage to do that.

In conclusion, Pythagoras’ timeless wisdom serves as a reminder to find contentment in our actions, that self-acceptance, regardless of external opinions or judgments. It encourages us to cultivate moments of stillness amidst the chaos of life and to confront our fears of judgment with resilience and self-assurance. Let us rest satisfied in our endeavors, and leave others to form their opinions as they may.

About Jen Waller

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.

The Power of Inquiry: Exploring the Simplicity of Asking Hard Questions

 in quote  tagged coach / coaches / coaching / hard questions / questions / quote / W.H. Auden
A 3D red question mark is laid flat on the ground at an angle. A 3D model in the shape of a human but without any features is sat at the bottom part of the hook portion of the question mark. They are hunched forward, left elbow on left knee and chin resting on their left fist. Their right arm is across their legs with that hand clasping the left elbow. The text reads: "To ask the hard question is simple" (W. H. Auden)

This quote should have been posted on 9th Feb but for some reason missed out on being scheduled – despite being written! So here is a post all about hard questions before we move into a new month.

“To ask the hard question is simple” (W. H. Auden)

As a coach, this statement resonates deeply because, despite the diversity in coaching styles, one common thread is the art of asking questions. This quote led me to ponder what constitutes a “hard question” and how our perspectives on challenging inquiries can evolve.

Defining the “Hard Question”:

What do you consider a “hard question”? The answer may not be as straightforward as it seems. As coaches, our definitions of difficulty can shift over time and with varied experiences. Initially, a hard question might be one that challenges preconceived notions or requires introspection. However, as our thinking evolves, the difficulty may shift to articulating complex thoughts rather than finding a one-size-fits-all answer.

The Perspective Shift:

Consider this: Does your definition of a “hard question” change when you imagine yourself on the receiving end? Empathy plays a significant role in many approaches to coaching, and recognizing the potential challenges your clients face in answering difficult questions allows you to approach coaching with a deeper understanding. This shift in perspective can influence the way you frame inquiries, fostering a more empathetic and constructive coaching environment.

Evolution of Questioning:

Reflecting on personal growth, I’ve observed how questions I once deemed “hard” are now perceived as opportunities for exploration. It’s less about finding a daunting question and more about articulating thoughts that inherently resist one-size-fits-all solutions. The evolution in questioning aligns with the dynamic nature of coaching, highlighting the importance of adaptability in our approach.

Asking the “Hard Questions”:

Now, let’s explore the act of asking “hard” questions. For me, the definition has evolved over time. Rather than labeling questions as “hard,” it’s about considering the appropriateness and impact of each inquiry. Questions occasionally occur to me, and while I may refine the wording, the essence remains. Asking challenging questions becomes a far more simple yet powerful act, as it is rooted in genuine curiosity and a commitment to supporting the client’s growth.

What I do find is personally, if I’m caught up in my thinking rather than how I ususally am focused on my client than I tend to view far more questions as “hard” – I can get drawn into stories about what they may think if I ask a specific question or if it’s the right time to “push” harder.

What About You?

Consider this quote’s prompt for you. What do you define as a “hard question,” and has that definition shifted over time? How do you approach asking challenging questions, and does your perspective change when you imagine yourself on the receiving end? Share your reflections and insights below.

About Jen Waller

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.

Fresh questions = new insights?

 in quote  tagged coach / coaches / coaching / fresh questions / insight / quote
In the background is a white background blending into a blue sky. A treasure chest is locates with the base located midway up and to the right of the image. It's rounded lid is partially open with a gloden glow coming from within. In the front left corner of the image is a stick figure drawn with think black lines who has their back to the chest. They have their right leg bent and resting upon a black raised rectangle and they are holding a pair of binoculars, looking out to the left. The text reads: "Take heed you do not find what you do not seek." (English Proverb)

Today’s quote is actually a proverb:

“Take heed you do not find what you do not seek.” (English proverb)

This timeless wisdom resonates deeply in our fast-paced world, where we often find ourselves seeking answers to questions that may not truly address our underlying concerns.

As coaches, we understand the frustration that arises when our efforts to find solutions only lead to dead ends. We’ve all experienced moments of perplexity, where it seems like the harder we search, the further we drift from clarity.

But what if one key to unlocking new insights lies not in relentless searching, but in the art of asking fresh questions?

Pause for a moment and quiet your mind, as best you can, in this moment. In the stillness, ask what would be really useful for you to get a new thought about? What fresh questions would be useful for you to ask?

Just as altering the phrasing of a Google search can yield a wealth of diverse results, so too can reframing our internal queries lead to unexpected discoveries. Embrace the power of introspection and self-inquiry and allow yourself to access your own creativity and wisdom.

It’s natural to feel hesitant about embracing unfamiliar questions. After all, we’re creatures of habit, drawn to the comfort of the familiar. But true growth lies beyond the confines of our comfort zone. By challenging ourselves to explore new perspectives, we open ourselves up to a world of possibilities.

Fresh questions

So, what questions are worth asking? That’s for you to decide. Perhaps you’re grappling with a complex problem at work, struggling to find a solution that eludes you. Instead of dwelling on the same tired inquiries, consider approaching the issue from a fresh angle. Are you trying to find an answer for an outcome that you dont have total control over as opposed to looking for ways that increase the probability of that event happening – For example “a business service making money” as oppose to how to “inviting people to experience your service”.

Remember, it only takes one new thought to shift your perspective and illuminate a path forward. By embracing curiosity and openness, you empower yourself to uncover hidden truths and forge new pathways to success.

As coaches, we have a unique opportunity to guide others on this transformative journey of self-discovery. Through thoughtful questioning and active listening, we can help our clients navigate the maze of their own minds and unearth the answers that lie within.

In conclusion, let us heed the wisdom of the ages and take heed not to find what we do not seek. Instead, let us embrace the power of fresh questions to illuminate our path and inspire meaningful change. For in the pursuit of new insights lies the promise of growth, fulfillment, and a life truly lived.

About Jen Waller

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.

Uncovering Hidden Genius and Nurturing Potential: A Coach’s Imperative

 in quote  tagged coach / coaches / coachign for genius / coaching / empowerment coaching / genius / Mark Twain / potential / quote
Looking down from above, a jigsaw that is made up of blank white pieces is almost complete. Slightly to the right of centre there is one piece missing showing whatever this is resting upon is pale blue. A round hand held magnifying glass is sat ontop of that gap with the missing space positioned centrally of the magnifying circle. The text reads: "Thousands of geniuses live and die undiscovered — either by themselves or by others" (Mark Twain)

Happy Monday, fellow coaches! Today’s quote is:

“Thousands of geniuses live and die undiscovered — either by themselves or by others.” (Mark Twain)

As we embark on another week of guiding and empowering individuals, let’s delve into this thought-provoking statement. It prompted us to ponder the role of coaches in uncovering latent genius and nurturing potential within those we work with.

Before we delve deeper, let’s first define what we mean by “genius.” According to the dictionary, genius encompasses exceptional intellectual or creative power, or other natural abilities. It’s not merely about academic prowess or innate talent but rather about tapping into one’s unique potential to innovate, create, and excel.

Reflecting on our coaching approach, many of us might resonate with the idea that our role extends beyond mere skill development. While honing skills is undoubtedly important, our focus has evolved to encompass tapping into individuals’ inherent creative power and wisdom. We recognize that each person possesses a reservoir of untapped potential waiting to be discovered and nurtured.

That doesn’t mean that this will be your primary focus of your coaching role. Particularly if you are coaching as a manage in a business your emphasis might have been primarily on enhancing specific skill sets to meet organizational objectives. When I was working as a trainer in the corporate world, that was certainly often my first objective in many of my coaching interations within that specific role. However, as we’ve grown my coaching practice – both in the business sense and as my own style has evolved, Ive come to realise that true transformation occurs when we empower individuals to embrace their innate genius.

So, is uncovering genius a part of our role as coaches? Fo me, absolutely. I know see my mission as transcending traditional notions of performance enhancement; it’s about unlocking the hidden brilliance within each individual client – even if that client doesn’t acually think that they have any innate creativity or brilliance.

Yet, despite our best efforts, the reality remains that many geniuses go unnoticed and uncelebrated. Some individuals may never recognize their own brilliance, while others may lack the support and encouragement needed to cultivate it fully.

Nurturing potential

However, this task is not without its challenges. Uncovering genius requires patience, empathy, and a willingness to dig beneath the surface. It involves creating a safe and nurturing environment where individuals feel empowered to explore their strengths, passions, and aspirations freely. There’s no set time scale to how long it takes a client to see for themselves, I currentl see my role as doing everything I can to increase that probability of an impactful insight happening at any moment.

As coaches, we must be willing to push boundaries, challenge assumptions, and potentially encourage stepping out of their comfort zone. By fostering a culture of curiosity and innovation, we create the conditions for genius to flourish.

But perhaps most importantly, uncovering genius requires us to believe wholeheartedly in the potential of every individual we encounter. We must recognize that genius knows no bounds – it exists within each of us, waiting to be discovered and unleashed.

In conclusion, the quote by Mark Twain serves as a poignant reminder of the untapped potential that lies within each of us. As a coach, I see it as a privilege to uncover and nurture this hidden genius, to nurture individuals to realise their full potential and make their mark on the world.

What about you? Did the quote prompt something else for you? Do you see your role as something different? You’re welcome to add a comment below.

About Jen Waller

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.

Defining Success: Navigating Your Coaching Journey

 in quote  tagged Christopher Morley / coach / coaches / coaching / quote / success
This image has what looks like a picture frame drawn and coloured in with a wax orangy/brown crayon. Within the frame is what looks like a cream paper with the text: "There is only one success ... to be able to spend your life in your own way." (Christopher Morley)

Today’s quote is:

“There is only one success … to be able to spend your life in your way.” (Christopher Morley)

This quote prompts us to ponder what true success means to us and how we can achieve it while staying true to ourselves. As coaches, we play a pivotal role in guiding others on their journey to success, but I think it’s equally important for us to reflect on our own definitions of success and how they shape our coaching practice.

Defining Success:

Success means different things to different people. As coaches, it’s crucial to define what success looks like for us personally and professionally. Do we measure success by achieving specific goals, making a positive impact on our clients, or finding fulfillment in our work? Our definition of success influences the strategies we employ in our coaching practice and the goals we set for ourselves.

Personal Version of Success:

Reflecting on our personal version of success allows us to align our actions with our values and aspirations. Is success for us about financial prosperity, personal growth, or making a difference in the lives of others? By understanding what success means to us individually, we can chart a course that leads to fulfillment and satisfaction in our coaching journey.

Living Life on Our Own Terms:

Imagining a life where we can spend our time exactly as we wish prompts us to consider what changes we would make to our coaching business. Would we focus more on serving our clients in innovative ways, expanding our offerings, or prioritizing work-life balance? This exercise encourages us to envision our ideal scenario and take steps to bring it closer to reality.

Reimagining Daily Routine:

In our ideal scenario, how would our daily routine change? Would we allocate more time to client sessions, professional development, or self-care activities? If this isn’t something you have imagined from this perspective before this could give you new insight about how you’d love to be spending your time.

Identifying Priorities:

Understanding our priorities reveals what truly matters to us and guides our decision-making process. Would we prioritise building relationships with clients, refining our coaching skills, or pursuing personal interests outside of work? Clarifying our priorities empowers us to make intentional choices that align with our values and goals.

As coaches, let’s take a moment to reflect on these questions and share our insights in the comments below. By exploring our definitions of success and envisioning our ideal coaching journey, we can cultivate a deeper understanding of ourselves and create a roadmap for achieving success on our own terms. Remember, success is not just about reaching a destination but about enjoying the journey along the way.

About Jen Waller

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.

If you are at the start of your coaching journey Jen does offer complimentary From Non-Coach to Coach Discovery sessions that will help refine your answers in more detail – plus look at next steps for you. Find more information about these sessions at this link.

Rediscovering Wisdom in Coaching Practice

 in quote  tagged coach / coaches / coaching / information / innate wisdom / knowledge / quote / T. S. Elliot / wisdom
This is a watercolour image. It appears that we are viewing from inside a small cave with a grass floor. Looking out of the entrance to a golden sky bathing in hills on the horizon in an orange glow. On the floor of the cave is a pile of books and paper. The text reads: "Where is the wisdom we have lost in knowledge? Where is the knowledge we have lost in information?" (T.S. Elliot)

Today’s quote is:

“Where is the wisdom we have lost in knowledge? Where is the knowledge we have lost in information?” (T.S. Eliot)

This quote invites us to reflect deeply on the nature of wisdom, knowledge, and information. I’m going to add the invitation to consider how they intersect in your coaching practice.

Exploring the Layers:

In today’s digital age, we are inundated with information. A quick internet search yields a plethora of facts, figures, and data. Yet, amidst this abundance of information, true knowledge can sometimes feel elusive. For me, knowledge goes beyond mere facts; it encompasses understanding, insight, and application. As coaches, we sift through the noise of information to distill meaningful knowledge that can truly benefit our clients.

As I was writing this, it occurred to me that, at least for me, there is also my knowing. My knowing feels far more personal than knowledge gained from books. It’s the feeling that, if I’m listening, will guide me from knowing what I want to have for lunch through to knowing what to ask next in a coaching session. It doesn’t need me to intellectually figure anything out; that sense of knowing is just available – even if sometimes it makes no logical sense what the answer is saying!

Moreover, wisdom transcends knowledge. It involves not only knowing but also discerning, reflecting, and acting with prudence. Wisdom is the ability to apply knowledge in a way that is ethical, compassionate, and aligned with one’s values. I don’t know about your coaching practice, but I’m guessing you probably aspire to cultivate wisdom, guiding our clients to make thoughtful decisions and navigate life’s complexities with clarity and grace.

Again, for me, there is a difference between how culturally wisdom is often talked about and our own innate wisdom. Culturally, wisdom seems to come from others and often blends in a mix of cultural beliefs and thinking into the message, whereas our own wisdom feels cleaner in its guidance. For me, it is where that feeling of knowing comes from and is something where I am increasingly deepening my trust as always being available.

The Role of Coaching:

Coaching serves as a catalyst for this journey towards wisdom. Through thought-provoking questions, reflective exercises, and meaningful conversations, we encourage our clients to explore their values, beliefs, and aspirations. We help them uncover the knowledge that lies within, empowering them to make informed choices and take purposeful action.

In our coaching sessions, we go beyond imparting information or expertise. Instead, we create a space for deep inquiry and self-discovery, where clients can tap into their innate wisdom and intuition. By fostering a supportive and non-judgmental environment, we enable our clients to explore new perspectives, challenge limiting beliefs and thinking, and embrace growth opportunities.

Navigating the Information Age:

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the sheer volume of information available at our fingertips. As coaches, we must help our clients navigate this information overload. As humans, it’s also really common for the thinking in our heads to go at a similar speed and create feelings of overwhelm. We encourage them to slow down, question assumptions, verify sources, and seek out diverse perspectives.

Furthermore, we remind our clients that wisdom is not solely derived from external sources but also from their own lived experiences and inner knowing. This means clients can tap into their intuition and access the wisdom that resides within them.

Conclusion:

T.S. Eliot’s quote challenges us to reevaluate our relationship with knowledge and information in our coaching practice. As coaches, we have a unique opportunity to guide our clients on a journey towards wisdom, helping them navigate the complexities of life with clarity, compassion, and authenticity. By prioritizing self-discovery, critical thinking, and mindful action, we empower our clients to cultivate wisdom in their own lives and become agents of positive change in the world.

Do you agree? Does this align with how you coach? Did the quote prompt something else for you? Feel free to share in the comments.

About Jen Waller

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.

Finding fulfillment and Success in Coaching: Insights from Jane Austen

 in quote  tagged coach / coaches / coaching / Jane Austin / marketing / quote / success
A black background has an illustration of three batteries in the centre with a band of green and then red light radiating outwards/ The cuboid bettery to the right has an indicatior light lit totally red. next to that battery is a cylindrical bettery which only has half of its indicator light lit green. A third battery is sat in front of those two, forming a traingular shape. That last batter has its indicator lit half green and half red. The text reads: " "Nothing ever fatigues me, but doing what I do not light." (Jane Austin)

Today’s quote is:

“Nothing ever fatigues me, but doing what I do not like.” (Jane Austin)

This quote can be interpreted in numerous ways, but let’s apply it practically to our work as coaches.

In our line of work, there’s a constant influx of advice and strategies marketed to coaches on the topic off marketing, promising to be the magic formula for success. However, I believe there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Professionals thrive using a variety of methods, and the key often lies in understanding and catering to your ideal clientele. For instance, if your target audience isn’t particularly tech-savvy, relying solely on digital communication might not yield the best results!

As far as I can tell, what sets apart those who enjoy long-term success is their ability to align their work with their passions and interests alongside being guided by their own wisdom. They do what genuinely energizes them, rather than forcing themselves into tasks that drain their enthusiasm. After all, we naturally gravitate towards activities that bring us joy and fulfillment.

Moreover, successful coaches are not afraid to experiment and try new approaches. They give themselves permission to explore and adapt, recognizing that the journey to success is rarely linear. Sometimes, changing direction or trying something new leads to unexpected breakthroughs and opportunities for growth.

So, what does Jane Austen’s quote prompt for you? How can you apply the principle of doing what energizes you in your coaching practice? Take a moment to reflect on the tasks and activities that truly bring you joy and fulfillment. Consider how you can incorporate more of these into your daily routine, and don’t hesitate to explore new avenues and approaches.

As we wrap up the week, let’s remember Jane Austen’s wise words and strive to build a coaching practice that brings us joy, fulfillment, and ultimately, success. After all, when we do what we love, fatigue becomes much less of an issue to deal with.

What are your thoughts on this quote? How do you interpret it in the context of coaching? Share your insights and reflections – I’d love to hear from you!

About Jen Waller

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.

Balancing Acts? Nurturing Others While Honoring Self-Care

 in quote  tagged coach / coaches / coaching / Michel de Montaigne / quote / self-care
The background is completly white. In the foreground is a blue gift box - the type where the lid lifts off the rest of the box. A lifter blue ribbon is tied around the box, culminating in a big bow on the top. The text reads. "Lend yourself to others, but give yourself to yourslef." (Michel de Montaigne)

Today’s quote is:

“Lend yourself to others, but give yourself to yourself.” (Michel de Montaigne)

While it may not apply to every single approach to coaching, many coaches think of themselves as being part of the helping profession. We often lend ourselves to others, spending time imparting knowledge and nudging wisdom to the forefront. We pour our hearts into nurturing their potential, helping them to grow and thrive. But amidst this noble endeavor, let’s not forget to give to ourselves as well.

Today’s quote encapsulates what can feel like a delicate balance between serving others and nurturing one’s own well-being. Logic says that it is something that we know is essential for both coaches and their clients, but it’s not unusual to think that we’ve tipped the scale too far one way or another. Personally, I’m not a huge fan of the imagery of anything being balanced – it suggests that there is only one universal “correct” place and doesn’t take into account other situations. For example, it may be that your physical health requires you to rest more compared to when you are fully healthy for a period of time if you are recovering from an illness or injury.

As coaches, we dedicate ourselves to supporting our clients on their journeys of self-discovery, personal development, and goal achievement. We lend our expertise, compassion, and guidance to help them navigate challenges, overcome obstacles, and unlock their full potential. However, amidst the demands of coaching and the needs of our clients, it’s easy to neglect our own needs and priorities.

Montaigne’s quote reminds us of the importance of self-care, self-reflection, and self-prioritization. It urges us to carve out time and space for ourselves, to nourish our own growth, and to honor our own aspirations and dreams. After all, how can we effectively support others if we neglect our own well-being and fulfillment?

Lending ourselves to others is an act of generosity and service. It involves actively listening to our clients, empathizing with their experiences, and offering them our time, attention, and expertise. It requires us to be fully present, engaged, and attuned to their needs and goals. By lending ourselves to others, we create a safe and supportive space for our clients to explore, learn, and grow.

However, while lending ourselves to others is important, giving ourselves to ourselves is equally essential. It means prioritizing our own self-care, self-awareness, and personal development. It involves setting agreed expectations, practicing self-compassion, and pursuing our own passions and interests. When we give ourselves to ourselves, we replenish our own energy, creativity, and sense of fulfillment, allowing us to show up as our best selves for our clients.

Sometimes this is down to habit – I know that one of the things I can neglect when deeply listening to someone via a Zoom call is paying attention to my posture. Something that my physical body will remind me about at a later stage! I’m just in the habit of apparently deeply listening with my head slightly tilted to one side. Something that when I catch myself doing since spotting that lets me quietly straighten whilst still being fully present with that other person.

Finding the balance between lending ourselves to others and giving ourselves to ourselves requires intentionality and awareness. It involves recognizing when we need to recharge and replenish our own reserves and taking proactive steps to prioritize our well-being. This may involve scheduling regular self-care activities, setting boundaries around our time and energy, and engaging in practices that nourish our mind, body, and spirit.

As coaches, we have a responsibility not only to our clients but also to ourselves. By honoring our own needs and priorities, we model self-care and self-compassion for our clients, inspiring them to do the same. Ultimately, when we strike a healthy balance between lending ourselves to others and giving ourselves to ourselves, we create a sustainable foundation for both personal and professional fulfillment.

In conclusion, Montaigne’s quote serves as a powerful reminder for coaches to prioritize self-care and self-awareness amidst the demands of coaching. By finding the balance between serving others and nurturing ourselves, we create the conditions for both personal and professional growth. I think this quote is a reminder to invest in your personal growth, to cultivate your passions, to rest and recharge. Take time to reflect, to learn, and to grow. Because the more we refine ourselves, the more we have to offer. So, as you lend yourself to others, don’t forget to give yourself to yourself.

About Jen Waller

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.