Daily Archives: 6 February 2024


Sow, Grow, Repeat: Embracing a Proverb for Coaching Success

The background of this image is out of focus but looks like it is green plants. In focus in the foreground is rich looking soil with green shoots sprouting in several spots. The text reads: "Don't stop sowing just because the birds ate a few seeds." (Danish proverb)

Today’s quote is:

“Don’t stop sowing just because the birds ate a few seeds.” (Danish proverb)

In the realm of coaching and having your own coaching business, success is often seen as the culmination of effective strategies, flawless execution, and unwavering determination. However, the journey towards achieving coaching excellence is more nuanced than meets the eye. Today’s quote I think points towards the reality of how embracing the spirit of trial and error can be a game-changer in the pursuit of coaching success.

The Wisdom Behind the Proverb:

Coaching and business is a dynamic and ever-evolving field, demanding adaptability and resilience from practitioners. The Danish proverb encapsulates the essence of persistence and resilience. It encourages coaches to press on despite setbacks, acknowledging that not every seed sown will sprout into success. Just as birds may consume a few seeds, coaches may encounter obstacles, failures, or unexpected challenges along their journey. The key lies in not letting these setbacks derail the pursuit of excellence.

Reflecting on Possibilities:

The proverb prompts coaches to engage in a powerful thought exercise: “If you knew it was perfectly fine for not every idea or strategy to work, what would you try?” This question challenges coaches to expand their horizons, fostering a mindset that welcomes experimentation and innovation. By encouraging coaches to ponder the possibilities without the pressure of immediate implementation, the proverb invites a freedom of thought that can lead to groundbreaking insights.

The Pursuit of Success:

Success in coaching and business is not a linear path; it’s a journey marked by twists, turns, and occasional setbacks. The quote urges coaches to view failure as an integral part of the learning process. Embracing the idea that not every seed will flourish allows coaches to approach challenges with a sense of curiosity and openness. Instead of being disheartened by unsuccessful attempts, coaches can treat each experience as a valuable lesson, contributing to their growth and development.

Trial and Error: A Catalyst for Growth:

Coaches who are willing to accept the inevitability of setbacks are better equipped to navigate the intricate landscape of coaching and business. The pursuit of success requires a willingness to lose a few seeds in the process. Just as a gardener accepts that not every seed will yield a thriving plant, coaches can approach their strategies with a similar mindset. Each failed attempt becomes a stepping stone towards refinement and improvement.

Conclusion:

In the world of coaching and business, the Danish proverb serves as a beacon of wisdom, guiding practitioners through the complexities of their journey. By embracing the inevitability of setbacks and cultivating a mindset that values trial and error, coaches can unlock new avenues for success. So, as you tread the path of coaching excellence, ask yourself: How many seeds are you willing to lose in pursuit of your desired outcome? The answer may very well determine the richness of the harvest that awaits.

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.