The Power of Planning: Navigating the Coaching Journey with Purpose

A framed white board  with a red, blue and green pen sat on the ledge underneath. The text on the board reads: "In preparing for battle, I have always found that plans are useless but planning is indispensable." (Dwight D. Eisenhower)

Today’s quote is:

“In preparing for battle, I have always found that plans are useless but planning is indispensable.” (Dwight D. Eisenhower)

This thought-provoking statement challenges us to reconsider the role of plans in our coaching journeys. As coaches, it’s time to reflect on the plans we’ve crafted and understand that while life may throw curveballs, the act of planning remains an indispensable tool for success.

The Value of Planning:

Life is unpredictable, and coaching is no exception. Plans may not always unfold as expected, but this doesn’t diminish the significance of the planning process. Planning provides us with a roadmap, offering a sense of direction and purpose. It’s a tool that helps us navigate the complexities of our coaching endeavors, offering a foundation upon which we can build and adapt.

Revisiting Your Plan:

My personal take is that a plan is useful—until it isn’t. When I worked as a trainer, I experimented with various methods of writing training plans. Some provided a detailed minute-by-minute outline, while others were more of a general framework—mainly to ensure that if, for some reason, I was unavailable on the day, a colleague could step in and deliver the session.

When I personally delivered the session, the training that worked best was when I used the plans as a guide rather than a rigid set of rules, adapting the content to the individuals in the room and aiming for our desired outcome by the end of the session. I recall one session in the corporate world that was supposed to solely teach new information, but it quickly became evident that a lack of knowledge was not the issue. So, I abandoned the plan and used the day to focus on addressing the actual issues.

If you have a plan in place, today is an opportune moment to revisit it. Take the time to evaluate whether it still aligns with your goals, aspirations and the general direction you want to be heading. Plans are not set in stone; they are dynamic guides that can evolve with changing circumstances. Ask yourself: Is the plan serving its purpose, or does it require adjustments? Reflecting on these questions ensures that your plan remains a relevant and effective tool in your coaching toolkit.

Adaptability is Key:

Eisenhower’s quote emphasizes the indispensable nature of planning, even when plans may prove useless in the face of unexpected challenges. This apparent paradox highlights the importance of adaptability. A rigid adherence to a plan can lead to frustration and disappointment, but viewing your plan as a flexible guide allows for adjustments that align with your changing needs and circumstances.

Embracing Flexibility:

I think that having a coaching business is a journey marked by growth and evolution, and your plan should reflect that. Embrace the flexibility inherent in planning, acknowledging that detours and adjustments are part of the process. By doing so, you empower yourself to navigate unforeseen challenges while staying true to your overarching goals.

For example, just because you start working with one particular set of clients does not mean that you are never allowed to work with anyone different in the future. (So for anyone that feels they need to have it all figured out before working with “real clients” then my invitation to you is to experiment and remember you’re allowed to change your mind in the future.)

Conclusion:

In the ever-changing landscape of having a coaching business, planning remains a cornerstone of success for many. Today’s quote serves as a reminder that while plans themselves may not always unfold as intended, the process of planning is indispensable – if nothing else it helps you be in the same place as your client at a pre-arranged time! Take the time to reflect on your own plans, ensuring they continue to serve your purpose. Embrace the adaptability that planning affords, and let it guide you through the dynamic and fulfilling journey. After all, it’s not about the perfection of the plan, but the empowerment derived from the planning process itself.

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.


Breaking Free from Conventional Wisdom: Designing Your Coaching Business on Your Terms

This image is in the style of a water colour. There is a a couple of trees in the distance in the top right and left corner, a white skyline meets a stretch of different greens that stretch to the bottom of the image. At the very bottom of the page, in the foreground are individual blades of grass in a rich green. In the bottomright there is a brown bird with a lighter brown under wings, face and lower body. It has a worm in its beak and has its wings up as if about to take flight.
The text reads: "The fate of the worm refutes the pretended ethical teaching of the proverb which assumes to illustrate the advantage of early rising and does so by showing how extremely dangerous it is." (Thomas Bailey Aldrich)

Today’s quote is:

“The fate of the worm refutes the pretended ethical teaching of the proverb which assumes to illustrate the advantage of early rising and does so by showing how extremely dangerous it is.” (Thomas Bailey Aldrich)

Whether you identify as a night owl or an early bird, this quote challenges us to reconsider the norms and expectations imposed on us. As coaches, especially those with a coaching business, it’s an invitation to break free from the preconceived notions of how a business should run and explore what truly works for you.

Questioning Conventional Wisdom:

Many coaches, operating as sole practitioners or leading small teams, often find themselves navigating the world of business based on inherited “rules” and societal “shoulds.” The question that arises is, do these norms align with your unique vision and preferences for your coaching business? The quote encourages a pause for reflection, urging coaches to question whether they are willingly conforming to business expectations that may not resonate with their personal style.

Crafting Your Own Narrative:

Imagine the freedom of designing your coaching business on your terms. The quote prompts coaches to consider the possibility of breaking away from conventional structures and creating a business model that suits their lifestyle and preferences. It challenges the assumption that there is a one-size-fits-all approach to running a coaching practice. What if you had the creative liberty to shape your work in a way that not only serves your clients but also brings joy and fulfillment to your own professional journey?

For me, on more than one occasion, I have found myself stressing over how to fit new commitments into my day – until realising that I could schedule coaching calls differently. Just because others scheduled them one way didn’t mean that I had to, or on another occasion just because I had been scheduling calls that way didn’t mean I couldn’t change that structure! (I know, it seems so obvious once you get that new thought lol) I suspect I’m not the only one who forgets that we get to make this up for ourselves, so that it works for you and your life!

The central question posed is an invitation to coaches: “If you got to make up how your coaching business ran, what would you do?”

  • How would you structure your day, week, or month?
  • How would you love to invite people to experience your coaching?
  • What extra support would you get? …..

Explore your own unique preferences and create a business environment that aligns with your personal and professional values.

Conclusion:

As coaches, it’s essential to remember that the path to a successful coaching business doesn’t have to conform to societal expectations. The Aldrich quote serves as a reminder that sometimes the conventional wisdom may not be as wise as it seems. So, take a moment to envision your coaching business on your terms. Embrace the freedom to create a structure that resonates with you, and watch as your coaching practice flourishes in authenticity and fulfillment. After all, rewriting the rules is often the first step to success!

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 the Power of ‘I Don’t Know’ in Coaching: A Journey of Growth and Discovery”

This image is in black and white. A shape of a human with arms in the air as in mid-shrug. Above are 3 question marks, one above the persons head and the other two above their hands respectively.
The text reads: "It was not till quite late in life that I doscovered how easy it is to say 'I don't know'" (W. Somerset Maugham)

Todays quote is:

“It was not till quite late in life that I discovered how easy it is to say: ‘I don’t know.'” (W. Somerset Maugham)

As coaches, we often encounter clients who express uncertainty with those very words. How we respond to this statement can profoundly impact the coaching process. In the past I’ve written a post answering “How do you deal with “I don’t know” as an answer to a coaching question?” at a more practical level so today’ I’ll look at it at a more general level. Let’s explore the nuances of the “I don’t know” response and how it serves as a gateway to growth and discovery in coaching.

The Two Faces of “I Don’t Know”:

When clients utter the words “I don’t know,” there are typically two underlying sentiments. The first often has a feeling of helplessness, where clients feel stuck and unable to generate fresh ideas or solutions despite their efforts. Here, our role as coaches is to provide gentle guidance, tapping into their inner wisdom and creativity to spark fresh insights and thoughts.

The second type of “I don’t know” is firmly grounded in reality, whether due to a lack of information or because the decision or answer is still evolving. If I think back to some of the trainings I did when I was starting out coaching, this type of situation was often ignored and more or less gave the suggestion to not take I don’t know as a reasonable answer.

Celebrating the ‘I Don’t Know’ Moments:

It’s essential for coaches to embrace and celebrate these “I don’t know” moments. They are not signs of weakness or failure but rather opportunities for growth and discovery. By acknowledging our own limitations and embracing uncertainty, we create a safe and supportive environment for our clients to explore, learn, and evolve.

Remembering our Humanity:

As coaches, it’s crucial to remember that we, too, don’t have all the answers. In fact, its not my job to have the answers but to meet the client where they are and explore – they after all are the expert on them. Embracing the vulnerability of not knowing allows us to connect more deeply with our clients and model authenticity and humility. Together, we navigate the uncertainties of life, celebrating the journey of growth and discovery along the way.

Conclusion:

In the realm of coaching, the phrase “I don’t know” holds profound significance. It serves as a catalyst for exploration, a reminder of our humanity, and a symbol of the inherent uncertainty of life. As coaches, let’s embrace and celebrate these moments, viewing them not as obstacles but as opportunities for growth, discovery, and transformation. By honoring our clients’ ‘I don’t know’ moments, we create space for profound insights, meaningful connections, and lasting change.

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.


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.


Navigating the Balance: Small Wins vs. Big Goals in Coaching

An oak type tree surrounded by grass is shown 4 times in different seasons of the year. The left hand image has some leaves started to shoot with clouds behind. To the right of that is much clearer sky with full lush green leaves all over the summer tree. Next along is the autumn image with some readish golden leaves on the tree but many have fallen on to the grass. The last in line is a tree with its branches totaly bare with snow on the ground.
The text below reads: "There is a time for some things, and a time for all things; a time for great things, and a time for small things." (Miguel de Cervantes)

Today’s quote of the day is:

“There is a time for some things, and a time for all things; a time for great things, and a time for small things.” (Miguel de Cervantes)

This wise perspective invites us to reflect on the balance between focusing on small, immediate improvements and setting our sights on larger, long-term objectives.

The Dynamics of Small and Big Things:

The Subjectivity of Size:

What we perceive as small or big can be highly subjective. A seemingly minor achievement for one person might be a significant milestone for another. As coaches, understanding these individual perspectives is crucial in tailoring our approach to each client. [It may also be relevant to not judging yourself harshly against what you see others doing – particularly if you’re judging via social media updates 😉 ]

The Fluctuating Horizon:

Similarly, the distinction between short-term and long-term goals can be fluid. What feels like a long-term vision today might evolve into an immediate focus tomorrow. I think the key is adaptability, recognizing that the horizon is subject to change and being OK with that possibility.

Coaching Strategies:

Determining Focus:

As coaches, how do we decide when to concentrate on enhancing something minor and when to spotlight larger objectives? Personally, I’m often looking for what will make the biggest difference for each client – however, sometimes to do that apparently smaller aspects will be the focus first – often becuse that’s where the clients comfort level is to be willing to focus there. The answer lies in getting to know each client. A tailored approach ensures that the coaching journey aligns with their individual definitions of small and big wins.

Striking the Right Balance:

Balancing the time spent on minor improvements versus significant milestones is an art. It involves gauging the client’s readiness, setting realistic expectations, and aligning the coaching process with their overall objectives. Striking this balance is essential for sustained growth.

Celebrating Small Wins:

Highlighting minor improvements is not about diminishing their significance but recognizing the power of incremental progress. Celebrating small wins builds confidence, fuels motivation, and lays the groundwork for achieving more substantial goals.

The Impact of Significant Milestones:

On the flip side, achieving significant milestones can be transformative. These moments provide a sense of accomplishment, inspire long-term vision, and mark pivotal junctures in the client’s journey. It’s about recognizing when the time is ripe for these big leaps forward.

Reflections on the Quote:

Questioning Perspectives:

Miguel de Cervantes’ quote prompts us to question our perspectives on time, size, and significance. What do you consider small or big in your coaching practice? How do you navigate the ebb and flow between immediate focus and long-term goals?

Conclusion:

As we embark on a new week, let’s embrace the wisdom of Miguel de Cervantes and navigate the delicate dance between small and big things in coaching. Understanding the subjectivity of size and the fluctuating nature of goals allows us to craft coaching journeys that resonate with our clients’ unique aspirations. Here’s to a week filled with meaningful progress, whether in small steps or giant leaps!

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.


Tears in Coaching: Embracing Vulnerability for Growth

Although you cant see any frame etc this looks like it is an image looking through a glass window. The background is out of focus but are natural different shades of green. In the foreground, almost touching the glass are a couple of grean healthy leaves. Rain drops are evident on the glass.
The text reads "Never fear to weep; For tears are summer showers to the soul, To keep it fresh and green." (Alfred Austin)

Today’a quote to prompt some thoughts around a coaching related topic is:

“Never fear to weep; For tears are summer showers to the soul, To keep it fresh and green.” (Alfred Austin)

In the realm of coaching, emotions are an integral part of the human experience. Coaching is often an experience that for some clients can feel like its taking a big step into vulnerability. Today’s quote talks about the essence of embracing tears as a natural and rejuvenating expression: Whilst this may not apply to every coaches style, personally I like to ensure that I do what I can so that my coaching takes place in a safe, empathetic, and non-judgmental space where clients feel free to express their emotions, including shedding tears.

The Power of Tears:

A Natural Response:

Tears are not a sign of weakness; rather, they are a natural response to a spectrum of emotions. Whether a reaction to a poignant realization or a part of the healing process, tears convey a depth of emotion that words alone sometimes cannot capture.

An Integral Part of Healing:

Acknowledging that tears can be a significant part of the healing journey is crucial. As coaches, we must recognize and honor the role of tears in the client’s emotional landscape, understanding that they can signify a release and a step towards growth.

Creating a Safe Space:

Non-Judgmental Environment:

As a coach, I see part of my role is not just as a guide but also to create/hold/point to the space where clients can express their emotions without fear of judgment. A non-judgmental environment fosters trust, allowing clients to open up authentically and answer honestly.

Vulnerability:

Expressing vulnerability, including shedding tears, is not a sign of weakness. In fact, it is in these moments of vulnerability that clients often discover their inner strength and resilience. Encourage clients to embrace their emotions, knowing that it’s a crucial part of their personal growth journey. I’m often mindful, expecially when just starting working with a client, that it can feel like it takes a lot to turn up to such a conversation.

Comfort with Emotion:

Embracing the Show of Emotion:

Personally, I am comfortable with clients expressing a range of emotions, including tears. It’s through these authentic moments that we can delve deeper into understanding the client’s needs, desires, and challenges. Remember, I’m not saying that tears are a compulsory part of coaching, but the freedom to express them is.

Strength in Vulnerability:

Letting tears flow is a powerful act of self-expression. It allows clients to wash away emotional barriers, gaining clarity and insight. It’s a process of cleansing the window to the soul, enabling a clearer view of one’s inner self.

Reflection:

The Coach’s Comfort with Emotion:

As coaches, it’s essential to reflect on our own comfort level with clients’ displays of emotion. Are we creating an environment where clients feel safe to express themselves fully? Our comfort and acceptance contribute significantly to the client’s overall coaching experience.

Growth through Vulnerability:

Consider instances where clients have shown vulnerability, and explore how those moments contributed to their growth. Recognize the strength that can emerge from embracing emotions, reinforcing the idea that vulnerability is a pathway to resilience.

Conclusion:

In the dance between coach and client, tears can be a poignant and transformative element. As we guide individuals on their journey of self-discovery, let us remember that tears are not to be feared but embraced. They are the summer showers that keep the soul fresh and green. So, coaches, how comfortable are you with a show of emotion? In this shared space of vulnerability, let us continue to nurture growth, strength, and clarity, one tear at a time.

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.


“Make Haste Slowly”: A Coach’s Compass for Navigating Life’s Journey

A black and white victorian esq ink style image. The background has a series of pipes and boiler type tanks with some gauges. There are also 3 round clock faces with roman numerials. These have bent and missing hands, some numbers are missing and are dirt/ink splattered. The text reads "Make haste slowly." - (Gaius Julius Caesar Octavianus Augustus)

Todays quote prompting some thoughts around and connected to coaching is:

“Make haste slowly.” (Gaius Julius Caesar Octavianus Augustus)

For me, this ancient piece of advice is not a plea to avoid speed altogether, but rather an invitation to take a moment, assess your direction, and acknowledge the progress you’ve made along the way.

In our modern world, where hustle and constant movement are often glorified, the concept of making haste slowly provides a refreshing perspective. It reminds us that adding more and more pressure to our thinking can quickly lead to overwhelm, hindering our ability to operate at our best. It’s no secret that when we find ourselves drowning in stress, our performance tends to suffer.

The beauty of “make haste slowly” lies in its ability to offer a pause—an opportunity to step back and gain a fresh perspective on the situation. It prompts us to ask if our current direction is still aligned with our goals or if it’s time to chart a new course. In the midst of a chaotic journey, a moment of reflection can be the compass that guides us toward clarity and purpose.

As coaches, we understand the importance of pacing ourselves and helping our clients do the same. The quote resonates with the reality that we are often terrible at estimating how long a particular endeavor should take. The pressure to meet unrealistic timelines can lead to frustration and a sense of inadequacy, causing us to lose heart.

“Make haste slowly” becomes a gentle reminder to acknowledge the progress made, even if it feels like we should have reached certain goals sooner. It’s an antidote to the tunnel vision that can occur when we become fixated on the destination, overlooking the valuable lessons and advancements along the way.

The Power of the Pause

In the coaching journey, we often encounter individuals racing towards their goals, fueled by the desire for quick results. This sense of urgency can be motivating, but it can also blind us to the subtle signs and lessons that the journey presents. “Make haste slowly” advocates for the power of the pause—a deliberate moment to breathe, assess, and recalibrate.

Consider a client striving for career success at a breakneck pace. The pressure to climb the corporate ladder quickly may lead to burnout and a loss of sight regarding personal growth and well-being. As coaches, we can introduce the concept of making haste slowly, encouraging our clients to reflect on their journey, appreciate their progress, and ensure their goals align with their values.

Navigating the Unpredictable Terrain

Life, much like a winding path through a dense forest, is unpredictable. We may encounter unexpected twists and turns, obstacles, and detours. “Make haste slowly” becomes our compass, guiding us through the unpredictable terrain with a steady hand. Instead of viewing detours as setbacks, we can approach them as opportunities for growth and learning.

In coaching sessions, we witness clients grappling with unforeseen challenges. The pressure to quickly overcome obstacles often leads to frustration and impulsive decision-making. By introducing the principle of making haste slowly, we guide them to navigate the unpredictable terrain with patience and resilience. It’s a reminder that progress, even in the face of setbacks, is still progress.

Embracing the Journey, One Step at a Time

Our society often celebrates the destination—the achievement of goals, the realization of dreams. However, “make haste slowly” encourages us to shift our focus from the endpoint to the journey itself. The quote invites us to savor each step, embracing the process of growth and self-discovery that occurs along the way.

As coaches, we play a crucial role in helping our clients appreciate the richness of their journey. It’s not just about reaching the summit; it’s about the transformation that happens during the climb. By instilling the wisdom of making haste slowly, we guide our clients to celebrate their progress, no matter how incremental, and to find joy in the unfolding journey.

Conclusion: The Art of Balanced Progress

In conclusion, “Make haste slowly” is not a call to abandon ambition or progress but an invitation to infuse our journey with balance. It encourages us to blend speed with mindfulness, urgency with reflection, and ambition with patience. As coaches, let’s continue to weave this timeless wisdom into our guidance, helping ourselves and our clients navigate the intricate and rewarding path of personal and professional development.

So, fellow coaches, how has this timeless concept influenced your coaching journey? Have you found yourself or your clients benefitting from the practice of making haste slowly? Share your thoughts and experiences below. Let’s continue to learn from each other as we navigate the intricate and rewarding path of coaching.

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 Uncertainty: Coaching and Nurturing Hope

A warm background in a watercolour style. The sun is either setting, or rising, behind the horizon of green hills. A warm yellow and orande glow blends upwards to pinks, reds and into purple.
A path, with a slight curve to the right  runs centrally from the forground towards the green hills. On either side of the path the warmth of the pinks and reds in the sky is reflected in the countryside.
The text reads "Uncertainty is the refuge of hope." (Henri-Frédéric Amiel)

Today’s quote is:

“Uncertainty is the refuge of hope” (Henri-Frédéric Amiel)

This quote prompted me to delve into the profound connection between uncertainty and hope. As coaches, we often find ourselves guiding clients through the ebb and flow of life, where the known and unknown coexist. Navigating this dynamic journey can feel challenging, and the interplay between certainty and uncertainty may evoke anxious feelings in both ourselves and our clients.

It’s not uncommon to encounter individuals who fear uncertainty—a sentiment many of us have experienced personally. Yet, as Amiel suggests, it is precisely within the realm of uncertainty that hope finds its refuge. The unknown, rather than being a threat, becomes a canvas upon which we can paint new dreams, spark fresh thoughts, and strive for more.

For some, hope might be a territory they hesitate to explore, fearing potential disappointment if circumstances don’t unfold as envisioned. However, hope has the remarkable power to shift perspectives, allowing individuals to see beyond limiting beliefs and thinking to discover new possibilities.

For me, I know that a feeling of hopelessness is a signal that I’ve lost touch with my own inner wisdom and creativity. As a coach, I invite a different perspective on a relationship with uncertainty. Instead of viewing it as an obstacle, we can guide them to perceive uncertainty as a fertile ground for hope and opportunity. In doing so, we unlock potential possibilities that might remain hidden when seen through the lens of fearful thinking.

Uncertain times, far from being a sign of weakness, present an invaluable chance for growth and development. By encouraging clients to embrace uncertainty, we empower them to embrace change, adapt to new situations, and foster a resilient mindset. After all, without uncertainty, life would lack the excitement and richness that make it truly extraordinary.

So, as we head into the weekend, let’s remember that uncertainty is not something to be feared but celebrated. It’s an invitation to dream, innovate, and explore new avenues. By nurturing hope in ourselves and our clients, we open the door to a world of possibilities that may have otherwise gone unnoticed.

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.