Monthly Archives: March 2024

The Art of Asking the Proper Question

 in quote
This image is mainly in dark greys and black. A pile of dark grey 3D question marks look like they are casecading out of the dark background all lying flat. They reduce in number as they approach the foreground which has more light. In the centre of the image is a glowing quetion mark, also lying flat. It has shades of red and yellow as if it was a glowing metal straight out of a blacksmiths furnace. The text above reads: "To ask the proper question is half of knowing." (Roger Bacon)

Happy Monday! Today’s quote is:

“To ask the proper question is half of knowing.” (Roger Bacon)

In the pursuit of knowledge, we often focus on finding the right answers. However, Roger Bacon reminds us that asking the right questions is equally crucial. Questions have the power to shape our understanding of the world around us and guide us towards deeper insights.

Think about a time when a single question changed the course of your thinking or led you to a breakthrough. Perhaps it was a simple inquiry that challenged your assumptions or a thought-provoking query that sparked a new line of inquiry. Whatever the case, asking the right question can be a transformative experience. After all, all it can take for change to happen is for a new thought, seeing something from a different perspective. If you like an idea suddenly striking you.

But what makes a question “proper” or effective? It’s not just about seeking information but also about framing the question in a way that stimulates new thinking and curiosity. To use the language of the quote, I think a proper question encourage exploration, invite multiple perspectives, and open the door to new possibilities.

In my coaching practice, I’ve seen firsthand the power of asking the “right” questions. By guiding clients to explore and look afresh, we uncover deeper insights and unlock hidden potential. It’s often not just about the perfect phrasing but coming from “a space” where the client actually hears you. It’s about creating a space where the client feels safe to explore and reflect, where they can gain clarity, discover new perspectives, and chart a course of action that aligns with the direction they want and know to travel.

Moreover, asking the right questions is not just about seeking answers but also about fostering a mindset of continuous learning and growth. It’s about embracing curiosity and remaining open to new ideas and experiences. As the philosopher Socrates famously said, “The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing.” By asking questions, we acknowledge our limitations and invite the opportunity for growth and discovery.

So, how can we cultivate the art of asking the right questions? It starts with curiosity and a willingness to challenge our own assumptions. It involves listening, empathy, and a genuine interest in understanding others’ perspectives. It requires humility and a recognition that we don’t have all the answers but that we can learn and grow through inquiry and exploration.

As we navigate through life’s complexities, let’s remember the wisdom of Roger Bacon’s words. Let’s embrace the power of inquiry and curiosity, knowing that asking the right questions is not just half of knowing but also the key to unlocking new possibilities and deeper understanding.

In conclusion, the art of asking the right questions is a skill worth cultivating. By framing inquiries thoughtfully and engaging in meaningful dialogue, we can expand our horizons, challenge our assumptions, and embark on a journey of lifelong learning and discovery.

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.

Embracing Intuition: Navigating Life’s Uncertainties

 in quote  tagged coach / coaches / coaching / intuition / knowing / quote
This image is split in half on the right is a quote written in black text on a white background. On the left is a black and white photograph of Zora Neale Hurston, an African American lady, taken in the late 1930's/ early 1940s when she would have been in her late 40s early 50s. The photograph is taken outside and from a slightly lower angle so although she is looking forward its not at the camera. She is wearing a hat at a slight angle and her hair is cut short in an age appropriate style. she is partially smiling. She is wearing a top that is showing as grey and the weave of the material is visible. Around the neckline are circular metal embelishments. The text to the right reads: “There are years that ask questions and years that answer.” (Zora Neale Hurston)

Happy Sunday! Today’s quote is:

“There are years that ask questions and years that answer.” (Zora Neale Hurston)

Hurston’s words capture the essence of the ever-changing nature of our experiences, where some periods are characterized by questions and uncertainties, while others bring clarity and understanding.

Have you ever found yourself in a situation where your intuition guided you towards a decision, even when logic seemed to suggest otherwise? This silent knowing, this deep sense of intuition, is a powerful guiding force that often defies rational explanation. It’s a whisper from within, nudging us in a certain direction, urging us to trust the process even when the path ahead seems unclear.

Intuition

Intuition, often described as our inner knowing or gut feeling, is a powerful yet subtle force that guides us through life’s uncertainties. It’s that quiet voice within us that whispers guidance when logic falls short. For example, think back to a time when you had to make a significant decision, and despite all the pros and cons laid out before you, something deep inside urged you in a particular direction. Perhaps it was a job offer that seemed perfect on paper, but your intuition told you it wasn’t the right fit. Or maybe it was a relationship that looked ideal from the outside, but your inner voice warned you of underlying issues.

These moments of intuitive insight often come when we least expect them, and they can be easy to dismiss or ignore, especially when they contradict our rational thoughts. However, learning to trust our intuition is essential for navigating life’s twists and turns with grace and confidence.

For me, this sense of intuition or innate wisdom recently manifested in my decision to pursue a Transformative Coaching certification. Despite feeling that the timing was not ideal from a logical standpoint, I couldn’t ignore the persistent pull towards this opportunity. Trusting my intuition, I took the leap, and as I embarked on this journey, I began to understand the subtle yet profound ways in which our inner wisdom shapes our experiences.

In embracing the uncertainty of life, we cultivate a deeper sense of trust in ourselves and the universe. We learn to listen to the whispers of our intuition, recognizing that they often lead us towards growth and self-discovery. It’s about surrendering to the unknown, letting go of the need for certainty, and allowing ourselves to be guided by the wisdom of our inner compass.

Ultimately, learning to trust our intuition is a journey of self-discovery and growth. It requires patience, practice, and a willingness to lean into the unknown. But as we cultivate a deeper connection with our inner guidance, we gain a powerful tool for navigating life’s complexities with grace and confidence.

Moreover, being comfortable with the unknown doesn’t always mean passively waiting for answers to come to us; rather, it’s an active engagement with the process of self-exploration and discovery. It can be about asking the right questions, exploring new perspectives, and being open to the lessons that each experience brings. Just like when googling for an answer and changing the wording of the request can produce a different set of answers – sometimes the requests we make to our own inner knowing/wisdom can seem logical to our intelect but changing that wording can produce different answers.

As we navigate through the uncertainties of life, let’s remember that every question, every moment of doubt, is an opportunity for growth and self-awareness. It can be in these apparent moments of vulnerability that we can discover our true strength and resilience, and it’s through embracing the unknown that we unlock the door to endless possibilities.

Whilst it may appear that time has a strict linear progression of cause and effect, in my experience we don’t always know the answers at a time when we think that we “should”. Which is what I think Zora Neale Hurston is pointing towards with this quote. Sometimes the answer to explain what our wisdom is guiding is to do isn’t actually revealed to a later time.

In conclusion, Zora Neale Hurston’s quote serves as a poignant reminder of the cyclical nature of life, where questions and answers intertwine to shape our journey. By embracing uncertainty, trusting our intuition, and remaining open to the mysteries of the unknown, we embark on a path of self-discovery and transformation that leads us towards deeper understanding and fulfillment.

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 Realities: A Journey of Discovery

 in quote
This image has a white background. On the right hand side is a quote written in black text. On the left hand side is a black and white photograph of Ada Lovelac dating back to around 1843 when she would have been 25 years old. She is sat at a slight angle to the camera facing to the forward and to the right. Her hands are clasped at chest hight and resting on something that is just out of sight. She is wearing a black top with sleeves which has white cuffs and a white v shaped neckline. Its difficult to tell because it blends into the top but there is black lace that hangs from her shoulder so it may be a shawl effect or a lined dress with a second layer of lace over the top. The neckline has what looks like a black lace flat lying collar with a ribbon at the front corner points. She has what looks like a bonnet on her head which has lighter coloured flowers level with the jawline. The text to the right reads: “I believe myself to possess a most singular combination of qualities exactly fitted to make me pre-eminently a discoverer of the hidden realities of nature.” (Ada Lovelace)
Photo of Ada Lovelace By Antoine Claudet – File:Ada Byron daguerreotype by Antoine Claudet 1843 or 1850.jpg, Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=82757509

Today’s quote is:

“I believe myself to possess a most singular combination of qualities exactly fitted to make me pre-eminently a discoverer of the hidden realities of nature.” (Ada Lovelace)

My approach to coaching now is far more focused around discovering the hidden realities of human nature. Well, technically they aren’t really hidden, once you begin to see them it becomes more and more obvious – but that doesn’t link quite so smoothly with the quote lol.

For those who aren’t familiar with Ada Lovelace despite being born at a time and place when general education was not universally available to girls and dying 133 years before Microsoft Windows was formed – she is widely viewed as the first computer programer. The quote comes from a letter she wrote to her mother when she was 26 years of age.

Now some may have read that and formed a story about well she was young and everything seems easier at that age. Others may have read that last paragraph and though well it’s alright for her but I couldn’t do that.

But what if we approached it differently? What if we looked at Ada Lovelace’s statement not as a testament to her innate abilities or her age at the time, but as a reflection of her thinking as she wrote that letter and approach to discovery?

In coaching, we often encounter clients who doubt their own capabilities. They may believe that success is reserved for the lucky few or those with a certain background or upbringing. But what if we challenged those beliefs? What if we encouraged them to see themselves as discoverers of their own potential, equipped with everything they need to navigate the complexities of life and achieve their goals?

This shift in perspective can be transformative. Instead of feeling limited by their circumstances or past experiences, clients begin to see possibilities where they once saw obstacles. They start to recognize the untapped potential within themselves and the hidden opportunities that surround them. And as they cultivate this mindset of discovery, they become more resilient, more creative, and more confident in their ability to create the life they desire.

Discovery

Peeling the layers back even further, just imagine the impact if they really saw that all that was built upon thinking, that the energy and experience was created from within rather than external circumstances even if we have thoughts around those circumstances – what we are feeling is from thinking. That we dont have to take insecure thinking seriously and that pressure and stress can be used as a nudge that we were innocently getting carries away with taking on responsibility in our thinking for roles and situations that we have no control over.

Of course, embracing a mindset of discovery doesn’t mean that the journey will always be easy or straightforward. There will be challenges along the way, moments of doubt, and times when progress seems slow. But just like Ada Lovelace, it’s during these moments that our commitment to discovery is tested, and our capacity for growth is truly revealed.

So, as we reflect on Ada Lovelace’s words and the spirit of discovery that guided her, let’s ask ourselves: What hidden realities of human nature are waiting to be uncovered within us? What unique qualities do we possess that make us pre-eminently suited to explore the depths of our own potential? And how can we embrace the journey of discovery with courage, curiosity, and conviction?

In conclusion, Ada Lovelace’s quote serves as a powerful reminder that we all have the potential to be discoverers of the hidden realities of human nature. By adopting a mindset of curiosity, courage, and perseverance, we can unlock the untapped potential within ourselves and embark on a journey of self-discovery that is as enriching as it is empowering.

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.

Noticing the Unseen: Reflecting on Accomplishments and Aspirations

 in quote  tagged accomplishments / aspirations / coach / coaches / coaching / Marie Curie / noticing / quote / reflection
This image is split in two, on the righthand side is a quote - black text on a white background. On the left is a black and white photo of Marie Curie. It was taken around 1920 when she would have been in her early 50s. It shows a white woman sat at a slight angle facing the left but with her turning to look directly at the camera. Her hair is tied back with some whisps of hair escaping. She is wearinf a collared blouse witha light background and a square pattern. A black jacket is being warn fastened over this. The text reads: "One never notices what has been done; one can only see what remains to be done." (Marie Curie)

Today’s quote is:

“One never notices what has been done; one can only see what remains to be done.” (Marie Curie)

Happy International Women’s Day! Today, as we honor the remarkable contributions of women throughout history, let’s take a moment to reflect on the profound wisdom encapsulated in their words. You may have been noticing a slight change in the images with each quote this week as they have each shown the authors of each quote. In celebration of Women’s History Month, each daily quote has been carefully chosen from historical women who have left an indelible mark on the world in their own way.

Today’s quote, as with all the other quotes this week, these words hold a timeless truth that transcends gender and speaks to the universal human experience of progress and aspiration.

In the apparent fast-paced world, it’s all too easy to become consumed by the constant pursuit of goals and objectives. We may find ourselves relentlessly pushing forward, always looking to the next task or challenge, without pausing to acknowledge the milestones we’ve already achieved. Yet, as Marie Curie reminds us, our focus tends to gravitate towards what remains to be done, rather than what has already been accomplished.

This tendency to overlook our past accomplishments can lead to a distorted perception of our progress. We may underestimate our abilities, feeling as though we’re still at the beginning of our journey, when in reality, we’ve come much further than we realise. By failing to recognise our achievements, we deprive ourselves of the opportunity to celebrate our successes and cultivate a sense of fulfillment. It can also hold us back because we just dont take steps we feel are more appropriate with more experience etc.

Moreover, the relentless pursuit of future goals can result in a perpetual state of striving and dissatisfaction. We may become so fixated on what lies ahead that we lose sight of the present moment and the opportunities it holds. However, by shifting our perspective and embracing the journey itself, we can find meaning and purpose in each step forward, no matter how small.

So often it’s that noticing that can make the difference – sometimes it can be noticing that a change has already happened and slipped by us, other times it can be noticing a behavior or habit in thinking earlier and earlier so you can have the option to choose to stop that in that moment earlier. It may not seem that way at the time but I think that once that awareness has begun to develop then often awareness and momentum does the rest.

Noticing in my coaching

In my coaching practice, I’ve embraced the role of a guide. I perceive myself as a facilitator who illuminates the path by pointing out key observations and prompting clients with questions like, ‘Have you noticed this?’ My aim is to shed light on both the subtle nuances and the significant patterns that influence their experiences and decisions, effectively turning the unseen into the seen.

Sometimes, what I point out may seem like a minor detail, relevant only to a specific project or task at hand. Other times, it’s a deeper observation about how we humans work that can have far-reaching implications for how my clients perceive themselves and navigate their lives.

By serving as a guide in this way, I aim to create moments of awareness and insight that empower my clients to make more informed choices and take meaningful action. Whether it’s noticing an innocent missunderstanding or thinking that’s holding them back or recognizing a small but significant win, these moments of noticing can spark profound shifts in perspective and behavior.

Ultimately, my goal as a guide is to help clients develop a heightened sense of awareness and agency in their lives. By encouraging them to pay attention to what’s happening within and around them, I empower them to embrace their potential for growth, resilience, and fulfillment.

In conclusion, Marie Curie’s timeless words remind us of the power of noticing in our journey of personal and professional growth. By acknowledging our accomplishments, embracing the journey, and cultivating gratitude for the opportunities ahead, we open ourselves to the transformative potential of noticing. On this International Women’s Day and throughout Women’s History Month, let us honor the past, celebrate the present, and inspire the future through the act of noticing

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.

Reflecting on Anticipation: Navigating Expectations in Coaching and Life

 in quote  tagged Amelia Earhart / anticipation / clients / coach / coaches / coaching / expectations / quote / reflecting
On the left of this image is a black and white photo of Amelia Earhar taken in March 1937 when she was 39 years old. It is a photo showing her head and shoulders with what is apparently the nose of her plane in the background. She is a white woman with short brown hair standing facing forward and grinning at the camera. She is wearing what looks like the a flight jacket open with a checked collared shirt that is open at the collar. She is wearing a neck tie around her neck. The text to the right reads: It's Thursday! Today's #QuoteOfTheDay is: “Anticipation, I suppose, sometimes exceeds realization.” (Amelia Earhart)A handfull of #QuestionsForCoaches prompted by this quote is: How does anticipation play a role in shaping our perceptions and experiences? On the left of this image is a black and white photo of Amelia Earhar taken in March 1937 when she was 39 years old. It is a photo showing her head and shoulders with what is apparently the nose of her plane in the background. She is a white woman with short brown hair standing facing forward and grinning at the camera. She is wearing what looks like the a flight jacket open with a checked collared shirt that is open at the collar. She is wearing a neck tie around her neck.The text to the right reads: “Anticipation, I suppose, sometimes exceeds realization.” (Amelia Earhart)

It’s Thursday! Today’s quote is:

“Anticipation, I suppose, sometimes exceeds realization.” (Amelia Earhart)

This quote first prompted me to reflect on managing expectations and anticipation, particularly within the context of coaching relationships. Over my years of coaching experience, I’ve observed that certain aspects can hinder our ability to fully engage and benefit from our time together. Speaking to other coaches it seems that we often notice a common theme that can trip our clients up. It’s not the same thing for every coach and their clients but there’s usually something that we can take action to minimise from the start.

For example, one common challenge I found when working with coaches, especially those new to coaching, is that they could sometimes become overly preoccupied with analyzing the reasons behind specific questions rather than focusing on their own responses. It was completly understandable as many of them credited feeling a lack of confidence down to thinking that they needed a better understanding of questions and what to ask when. etc

Recognizing this tendency, I’ve adopted a proactive approach to address it. Before starting our first session together, I usually initiate a conversation with clients, about how to get the best from our time together. It’s at that stage I set the expectation that if I do revisit certain questions it doesn’t imply a lack of preparation or doubt in their initial answers. Instead, it’s an acknowledgment of the dynamic nature of coaching conversations and the potential for transformative insights to emerge in unexpected moments. By setting this expectation upfront, clients with limited coaching experience can shift their focus from overanalyzing to simply engaging with the questions in the present moment.

This proactive approach with a different set up meant that anticipation and expectation was managed. It is now not something that often comes up as something that gets in the way of our coaching clients. I’ve heard other coaches have similar conversations about it being OK to take a moment to answer a question – there’s no need to rush if it’s soemthing a client has never considered before. So if there’s a common trend you see with many of your clients – is it something that would bennefit from having a conversation about before you start?

Reflecting on the interplay between anticipation and realization also led me to explore the broader implications of our thought patterns on our present moment experiences. In the realm of coaching and beyond, our subjective reality is profoundly influenced by the quality of our thoughts in any given moment. By recognizing the transient nature of thought and its direct impact on our perceptions, we gain the capacity to navigate life’s uncertainties with greater clarity and resilience.

Consider, for instance, the common scenario of anticipating future outcomes. When we become overly fixated on hypothetical scenarios or expectations, we risk diluting our present experience with unnecessary worry or anticipation. Instead, by cultivating mindfulness and embracing the inherent wisdom of the present moment, we can navigate uncertainty with grace and equanimity.

Furthermore, acknowledging the role of thought in shaping our experiences opens the door to a deeper understanding of resilience and well-being. Rather than attributing our emotional state solely to external circumstances, we recognize that our inner resilience stems from our innate capacity to navigate the ebb and flow of life’s challenges with grace and resilience.

In conclusion, Amelia Earhart’s timeless quote serves as a poignant reminder of the intricate relationship between anticipation and realization. By embracing the fluidity of the present moment and cultivating a deeper understanding of our thought patterns, we can navigate life’s uncertainties with clarity, resilience, and wisdom.

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.

Start Strong: Empowering Coaching Through Self-Initiation

 in quote  tagged action / coach / coaches / coaching / Madam C J Walker / quote / start
On the left of the image is a photograph of Madam C J Walker. This is a photo in sepia colours and was taken around 1914. An African American woman is sat side on. If the date is correct that makes Madam C J Walker 47 at the time she posed for this photo. Her hair looks like it is in a bob style with a side parting. She is wearing drop style earings and a matching necklace. The top she is wearing looks like it is a delicate white fabric with a v neckline. The text to the right reads: “I got my start by giving myself a start.” (Madam C J Walker - entrepreneur, activist and philanthropist)

Happy Wednesday! Today’s quote is:

“I got my start by giving myself a start.” (Madam C J Walker – entrepreneur, activist and philanthropist)

One of the things that I often see, and if I’m honest also done myself, is to get stuck before even starting on a project. We can overthink so much that we never actually get round to taking any action to get that start.

Perhaps you overthink because you think you need to know every single step before you take any action and the thing that’s keeping you stuck is that there’s parts you don’t yet know. With coaches I often see this showing up as thinking they need to know what every single question that will be asked will be before the client steps through the door or onto a call. It’s not at all uncommon for some steps to not be obvious until the step before is completed. Just like with a coaching conversation – how would you know what would be an appropriate follow up question to the previous answer until you have heard what the actual answer is!

Perhaps you think you know what every single step in the future is going to be, but it just seems totally overwhelming. I recently spoke to someone who was feeling overwhelmed at a project about reorganising their office space. The sheer list of everything they thought it would involve was exhausting. In reality when they settled in to make a start on just the very first step – adding in some joyful music they actually found that it wasn’t the draining exercise that they had expected and made a significant impact into the project within the first session rather than the imagined days.

In the realm of coaching, the journey often begins with a single step – a step propelled not by external forces, but by the choice of the individual. It doesn’t need to be a huge step (though for some it can be) it could be something that seems incredibly small but taking enough incredibly small steps, and you find that momentum follows.

Initiate Action: Self-starting is about more than just dreaming – it’s about taking action. As a coach, don’t wait for the perfect moment or the ideal circumstances to begin your journey. Start where you are, with what you have. Whether it’s launching a coaching program, writing a book, or establishing your online presence, the key is to take that first step. Remember, the path to success is paved by action, not by idle contemplation. I invite you to allow yourself to experiment and to give yourself the freedom to learn without the added pressure of a self impossed expectation of perfection.

Cultivate Resilience: The journey of self-starting is not without its challenges. There will be setbacks, obstacles, and moments of doubt along the way. However, it’s essential to cultivate resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity. Madam C.J. Walker faced numerous obstacles on her path to success, including poverty, discrimination, and health issues. Yet, she refused to be deterred, demonstrating unwavering resilience in pursuit of her goals.

What is resisilience? Well, one dictionary definition is “the capacity to withstand or to recover quickly from difficulties.” I think the key to resilence is not giving too much meaning to the percieved challenge/obstacle.

If you have ever watched a small child learn to walk their focus is usually upon getting where they want to be heading in that moment – at some stage they have tried crawling or the “bum shuffle” and move on to trying to get there by standing and walking on their feet. If they topple over they dont have a story about what that means, that they obviously just weren’t meant to be a walker and give up.

What if, as an adult, we just look at an obstical as part of our journey without attributing some extra meaning about our own value in that? Would that make just taking the next step easier?

Forge Your Own Path: In a world filled with conformity and convention, self-starting requires the courage to forge your own path. Don’t be afraid to deviate from the norm or challenge the status quo. Madam C.J. Walker defied societal expectations of the time and blazed a trail for future generations of entrepreneurs, particularly women and African Americans. She broke percieved barriers and could inspire individuals from diverse backgrounds. What if you dared to be different? Innovate, experiment, and pioneer new approaches in your field or business. Remember, the most rewarding journeys are often those less traveled.

Empower Others Along the Way: True success is not measured solely by individual achievements but by the impact we have on others. Madam C.J. Walker understood the importance of lifting others as she climbed, empowering countless individuals through her business ventures, activism, and philanthropy. As a coach, I think our role naturally allows us to choose to strive to empower and uplift those you encounter on your journey, should you wish. Maybe it’s about sharing your knowledge, mentorship, and resources with others, paying forward the support you’ve received along the way.

In conclusion, the quote, “I got my start by giving myself a start,” encapsulates the essence of self-starting for coaches. Embrace the entrepreneurial spirit, initiate action, cultivate resilience, forge your own path, and empower others along the way. By embodying these principles, you’ll not only chart a course for your own success but also inspire others to embark on their own transformative journeys.

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.

Seizing Opportunity: Discovering Hidden Gems in Daily Life

 in quote  tagged coach / coaches / coaching / Marie von Ebner-Eschenbach) / opportunity / present / quote
On the left there is a black and white photo of Marie von Ebner-Eschenbach. It was taken around 1900 when she would have been around 60 years old. She is wearing a dark coloured embellished Victorian blouse with what looks like a lace stiyle detailing in a v shaped across the front. Her hair is fastened back and she is looking straight at the camera. As is fairly typical for such photos of this type she is not smiling. The text to the right reads: "Nothing is so often and so irrevocably missed as the opportunity which crops up daily." (Marie von Ebner-Eschenbach)

Happy Tuesday! Today’s quote is:

“Nothing is so often and so irrevocably missed as the opportunity which crops up daily.” (Marie von Ebner-Eschenbach)

The thing that struck me about this quote is how often we can miss what is right in front of us. It’s not just opportunities but things that we just don’t think to question because it is so normal to us.

Our brain may highlight something that is out of the norm, causing us to consciously notice it. However, we may overlook the things that blend into the background.

In what can seem our fast-paced lives, it’s easy to overlook the small, seemingly insignificant moments that present themselves each day. We get caught up in the routines and demands of daily life, often failing to pause and consider the possibilities that lie within each moment. Yet, as Marie von Ebner-Eschenbach reminds us, these daily opportunities, however subtle they may seem, can have a profound impact on our lives if we’re willing to recognize and seize them.

Consider the moments in your own life where you may have missed opportunities simply because you were too preoccupied or distracted to notice them. Perhaps it was a chance encounter with a potential mentor, a new idea that sparked your curiosity, or a small act of kindness that went unnoticed. These missed opportunities may seem insignificant at the time, but they could have led to new paths, insights, or connections if only we had been more attentive.

This isn’t a post to give you yet another opportunity to mentally beat yourself up – many of us are already very good at that and I’m going to invite you to give yourself a break about that. So, how can we become more attuned to the opportunities that crop up daily? By slowing down and being present in each moment, as best you can, we can train ourselves to notice the subtle cues and possibilities that surround us.

You’ve probably noticed that when you’re feeling pressured, when your brain is busy overthinking and stressed, then your focus is elsewhere and it’s easy to miss small and regular details. When you’re more present it may mean being open to new experiences, being curious about the world around us, and being willing to step outside of our comfort zones.

Additionally, being open to challenge our assumptions and question the status quo can make a difference. Just because something has always been done a certain way doesn’t mean it’s the only way or the best way. By questioning the norms and exploring alternative perspectives, we create space for innovation and growth.

Ultimately, embracing the opportunities that present themselves daily requires a willingness to embrace uncertainty and take calculated risks. It means being open to the unknown and trusting in our ability to adapt and learn from each experience. So, as you go about your day today, I encourage you to keep an eye out for those subtle opportunities that may be waiting just around the corner. Who knows what possibilities they may hold?

This quote is a powerful reminder of the opportunities we often overlook in our daily lives. It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle, and ignore the chances that life provides us to grow, learn, and make a difference, however small it might be. Let’s make an effort to seize those moments, no matter how insignificant they may seem. Remember, every opportunity is a stepping stone towards creating a better version of ourselves and a brighter future. Have a wonderful day everyone!

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.

Living in the Present: Welcoming the Wisdom of Each Moment

 in quote  tagged coach / coaches / coaching / living in the present / quote / Sarah Orne Jewett / Thought
The left half of this image is taken up with a photo of Sarah Orne Jewett. It dates from around 1894 so the image is in blacks and greys. It shows a white woman in her mid 40s with her brown hair pinned up. She is wearing a dark coloured simple sleeved blouse with largish round buttons and a largish dark ribbon tied at her neck over the collar position of the top. Although her body is facing forward she is looking to the left of the image.The text to the right reads: "'Tain't worthwhile to wear a day all out before it comes." (Sarah Orne Jewett)

Happy Monday! Today’s quote is:

“‘Tain’t worthwhile to wear a day all out before it comes.” (Sarah Orne Jewett)

This beautiful quote reminds us to welcome the importance of living in the present moment, rather than allowing worries about the future to consume us.

In the fast-paced world, where schedules can be packed and our expectations are high, it’s easy to fall into the trap of constantly worrying about what tomorrow might bring. We can get caught in loops of stacking one thought and the meaning we’ve given that thought on top of each other. Yet, as we explore the essence of this quote, we can uncover profound insights into the transformative power of embracing the present moment.

Living in the present

Which leads to the question of what is living in the present moment like? Before I take a moment to share a few words, what is your answer to that wondering?

For me, when I ponder that it’s just being present. Often my thoughts are quieter and not as loud and demanding but sometimes they can still be going past but without my activley metaphorically grabbing at some and not letting it go. I’m often fully focused upon the one thing in front of me. I’m not living in memories from the past or using those memories to project out into the future to imagine a story of what could be coming up.

Which suggests that it is the quality of our thinking in the moment that makes a huge impact. When we become caught up in worry and anticipation, we are living in a virtual reality of our own making, disconnected from the richness and depth of the present moment.I don’t mean that this is another job to add to our mental to-do list and change all our thinking – it can be far more relaxed than that. It’s about begining to notice when you are getting caught up and as best you can in that moment relaxing back into present. My suggestion would be to skip any beating yourself up for forgetting and just go back to noticing.

This constant mental chatter creates unnecessary stress and robs us of the joy and fulfillment that can be found in the present. But the truth is, all we have is today. So why spend it consumed by worries about tomorrow?

As coaches, I see our role as guiding our clients on a journey of self-discovery and transformation, helping them unlock the wisdom and potential that resides within them. We can empower them to release the grip of worry and anxiety and return to the simplicity and clarity of the present moment.

Thoughts are naturally transient and ever-changing, just like clouds passing in the sky. By cultivating a deeper understanding of their own innate resilience, clients can learn to trust in the unfolding of life and embrace each moment with an open heart and mind.

Ultimately, the quote by Sarah Orne Jewett serves as a powerful reminder that life is meant to be lived fully in the present. So let’s make a commitment to embrace each day as it comes, trusting and welcoming the wisdom of the present moment and allowing ourselves to fully experience the beauty and joy that surrounds us.

Have a wonderful Monday, everyone!

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.