humility

Curiosity And Wonder In Coaching

 in quote  tagged Auguste Villiers de l'Isle-Adam / coach / coaches / coaching / coaching qualities / curiosity / humility / quote / wonder
A greyish white clay like featureless model is stood holding a large key across the front of their body. Instead of the tradition key part cut into one end is the word KNOW in upper case letters. The text reads: "I am a man who knows nothing, guesses sometimes, finds frequently and who's always amazed.".(Auguste Villiers de l'Isle-Adam)

The quote of the day today is:

“I am a man who knows nothing, guesses sometimes, finds frequently and who’s always amazed.”.(Auguste Villiers de l’Isle-Adam)

This quote got me thinking as, for me, it points a lot to elements I recognise in my coaching. As coaches, we often find ourselves in the delicate position of guiding others through their personal and professional growth. This quote can inspire us to embrace humility, curiosity, and a sense of wonder in our coaching practices.

Embracing Humility

“I am a man who knows nothing” speaks to the importance of humility. By humility, I don’t mean thinking of yourself as small or somehow less worthy. I mean just not bringing all your thinking into the mix and just letting your naturally self shine.

In coaching, I think it’s important to recognise that we don’t have all the answers. Our role is not to impose our knowledge, but to facilitate our clients’ own discoveries. By approaching each session with an open mind and a willingness to learn from our clients, we create a space where genuine exploration can occur. For me, I think that this humility allows us to connect more deeply with our clients and fosters an environment of mutual respect and trust.

The Power of Curiosity

“Guesses sometimes” highlights the role of curiosity in the coaching process. Curiosity drives us to ask questions, explore new perspectives, and challenge assumptions. It encourages us to step out of our comfort zones and venture into the unknown. As coaches, cultivating curiosity can lead to powerful breakthroughs for our clients. When we model curiosity, we invite our clients to adopt a similar mindset, encouraging them to look at their challenges and goals from different angles.

Having worked a lot with coaches over the years, I’ve often found myself explaining to a new client that if I’m asking a question in will be because it’s occurred to me to ask – it really won’t be because there’s some secret meaning behind the question. I’ve found that coaches can fall into the trap of trying to analyse the reason behind a question rather than looking at what the question is asking.

I’ve also found that giving clients permission to guess or make up an answer can sometimes be all it takes to get creativity flowing again and for ideas to spring that unstick them from their thinking around a situation. It’s usually when they have put added pressure on an answer that must be perfect and a fully formed solution – often unconsciously dismissing any idea that isn’t 100% correct immediately. It’s like expecting an author to produce a best-selling book immediately they sit down without a process of a series of drafts and edits later – it may happen, but why make the process more difficult than it needs to be?

Frequent Discoveries

“Finds frequently” reminds us of the frequent discoveries that happen throughout the coaching journey. These moments of insight can range from small realizations to significant shifts in understanding. Celebrating these discoveries, no matter how minor they may seem, is crucial.

I’ve been guilty in the past of not crediting the impact from a gentle almost unobserved fresh perspective, instead looking for the really obvious earth-shattering new insight – the sort that feels like your whole world perspective has just been shaken to its core.

Acknowledging progress helps to build momentum and reinforces the value of the coaching process. Encouraging clients to recognise and celebrate their own discoveries fosters a sense of achievement and motivates them to continue their growth.

A Sense of Wonder

“Who’s always amazed” speaks to maintaining a sense of wonder and amazement. The coaching journey is full of surprises, both for the coach and the client. Approaching each session with an attitude of wonder keeps the process fresh and engaging. I’ve found that there is something special that can happen when a client is free and willing to wonder, it can create a space for a fresh perspective, insight and creativity to emerge.

In conclusion, the quote by Auguste Villiers de l’Isle-Adam is a powerful reminder of the qualities that can enhance our coaching practice: humility, curiosity, frequent discovery, and a sense of wonder. By embracing these qualities, we can create a more enriching and impactful experience for our clients and ourselves. These are just the qualities pointed to with this quote, what other aspects would you add, specifically in relation to your coaching?

About Jen Waller

Jen Waller

Jen Waller is a transformative coach dedicated to empowering individuals to get out of their own way and make a meaningful impact in the world. With an impactful, nurturing coaching style, Jen supports clients in unlocking their potential and achieving their goals. As an experienced coach and trainer, she guides clients from self-doubt to success.

Discover how Jen can help you transform your journey here.

Reflections on Aesop’s Fable: Embracing Humility and Perspective

 in quote  tagged Aesop / coach / coaches / coaching / humility / quote / self-awareness
This image is in a cartoon style. Two grey horses in harness is pulling a Roman centorian in a one person chariot. The Roman is wearing a red billowing cape and metal brest plate and helmet. A fly, with large eyes, is sat on the bar of the chariot. The text reads: "The fly sat upon the axel-tree of the chariot-wheel and said, 'What a dust do I raise!'" (The Fly on the Wheel, Aesop)

Today’s quote is:

“The fly sat upon the axel-tree of the chariot-wheel and said, ‘What a dust do I raise!'” (The fly and the wheel, Aesop)

In this ancient tale, the fly perceives itself as the catalyst for change, oblivious to the fact that it’s merely riding on the wheel that’s causing the disruption. This narrative prompts us to reflect on our own actions and decisions: Are we truly the drivers of change, or are we simply passengers along for the ride, overestimating our influence?

In a world where self-importance often clouds our judgment, Aesop’s fable reminds us of the importance of maintaining a humble perspective. It challenges us to acknowledge our place within the larger context of life’s unfolding and to recognize that we are part of a bigger system.

But humility doesn’t mean diminishing our worth or downplaying our contributions.For me, it’s about gaining insight into our role within the larger scheme of things and taking our thinking lightly. It’s about understanding the real effects of our actions and appreciating the interconnectedness of all beings.

As coaches, we can often help our clients navigate what seems like a delicate balance between confidence and humility. We can encourage them to evaluate their contributions and influence while also fostering an appreciation for the broader system or community they are part of.

So, let’s take a moment today to reflect on Aesop’s timeless wisdom. Let’s consider how this fable resonates with us and how it prompts us to ensure we’re not overestimating or underestimating our importance or influence. By embracing humility and perspective, we can navigate life’s journey with grace and wisdom.

What are your thoughts on Aesop’s fable? How does it inspire you to approach your role and influence in the world? Share your reflections in the comments 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.

Embracing Humility: Nourishment for the Soul and Business Growth

 in quote  tagged Anthony de Padus / coach / coaching / humility / quote / soul
A water colour wash of a purply sky and a wash of yellowy brown on the ground forms a back drop. A sturdy tree trunk with roots going into the ground and a canapy of green leaves is position on the right of the image. The text taking up the bulk of the left and the centre of the image reads: "Just as the root feeds the tree, so humility feeds the soul. The spirit of humility is sweeter than honey, and whoever is fed by this sweetness produces fruit." (Anthony of Padua)

Todays quote of the day is:

“Just as the root feeds the tree, so humility feeds the soul. The spirit of humility is sweeter than honey, and whoever is fed by this sweetness produces fruit.” (Anthony of Padua)

In the intricate tapestry of coaching, the theme of humility emerges as a cornerstone, weaving its essence through leadership, personal growth, and the entrepreneurial journey. Anthony of Padua’s timeless words invite us to explore the profound connection between humility, the soul, and the flourishing of fruitful endeavors. Join me in a reflective exploration, delving into the impact of humility on coaching and business practices.

Humility in Coaching: A Pillar of Growth:

As coaches, we navigate the delicate balance of guiding others while recognizing our own strengths and limitations. How does humility manifest in your coaching practice? Have you witnessed its transformative power in your clients’ journeys of self-discovery?

Entrepreneurial Humility: Nurturing Business Growth:

For many coaches who tread the path of solo entrepreneurship, humility influences not only personal development but also business strategies. How has embracing humility impacted your business decisions, client relationships, or overall entrepreneurial journey?

The Sweetness of Humility: Feeding the Soul:

In the quote it is humility that is said to feed the soul. In your coaching journey, Is this something that resonates with your experiences? If not, and presusming the soul can be feed, what for you feeds the soul?.

Producing Fruit: The Fruits of Humility:

The analogy of the root feeding the tree, resulting in the production of fruit, suggests that humility is a catalyst for fruitful outcomes. What fruits have you witnessed in your coaching practice and business endeavors as a result of cultivating humility?

Open Dialogue: Humility in Focus:

Let’s open the dialogue on humility. How does this virtue shape your coaching philosophy? In the realm of solo entrepreneurship, how do you balance humility with asserting your unique value? Share your experiences, challenges, and triumphs.

Mutual Nourishment: Sharing Insights:

By sharing our insights on humility, we contribute to a collective wellspring of wisdom. How do you believe humility feeds the soul, and in turn, nurtures the growth of both individuals and businesses? Your perspective might be the key to unlocking inspiration for others.

In the spirit of humility, let’s embark on this collective exploration. Your thoughts and experiences add unique hues to the canvas of coaching and entrepreneurship. Let the dialogue begin! #HumilityInCoaching #BusinessGrowthJourney

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.