Today’s quote is:
“To climb steep hills requires slow pace at first.” (William Shakespeare)
As coaches, we often find ourselves guiding our clients through treacherous terrains and daunting obstacles. This quote serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of patience, persistence, and strategic pacing in our coaching practice.
Building Momentum
Sometimes getting started can seem the hardest part and it just takes a bit of time for momentum to take over. Depending upon what this is being applied to sometimes it takes a moment for a new habit to be formed. A slow gradual increase to build momentum may also be needed to avoid overwhelm and to build the path of progress.
Managing Expectations with Compassion
At times, progress may seem slower than anticipated. It’s crucial to approach this with understanding and empathy. As coaches, our role is to provide unwavering support, reminding our clients that growth requires time. We help them see setbacks as opportunities for learning and growth, fostering resilience and perseverance.
Discussing Expectations:
It’s worth discussing the perceived timeline of achieving something. This is often a self-created notion accompanied by judgmental thoughts. A candid conversation can shed light on these unacknowledged expectations, helping to understand their unrealistic nature while recognizing the progress made.
Promoting Patience and Resilience
Patience and resilience are indispensable qualities on the journey towards success. Through coaching conversations and reflective exercises, we can help our clients cultivate these qualities within themselves. By celebrating small victories and acknowledging the effort invested, we reinforce the importance of patience and resilience in achieving long-term goals.
Navigating the Urge to Rush
In a world that glorifies instant gratification, it’s common for clients to want to rush the process. However, as coaches, it’s our responsibility to remind them of the wisdom in Shakespeare’s words. Rushing through challenges often leads to burnout and dissatisfaction. By encouraging clients to embrace the journey, to savor each step of the process, we help them build a solid foundation for momentum to take over.
Exploring Deeper Questions
Beyond the surface, Shakespeare’s quote prompts us to explore deeper questions about coaching and life. What other challenges do our clients face that require a slow and steady approach? How can we apply the principles of pacing and patience in our own lives as coaches? These questions invite introspection and self-discovery, enriching our coaching practice and fostering personal growth.
As we navigate the uphill climb alongside our clients, let us embody the wisdom of William Shakespeare. Let us embrace the journey, one step at a time, knowing that with patience, persistence, and unwavering determination, we will reach the summit of success.
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.