Rediscovering Wisdom in Coaching Practice
Today’s quote is:
“Where is the wisdom we have lost in knowledge? Where is the knowledge we have lost in information?” (T.S. Eliot)
This quote invites us to reflect deeply on the nature of wisdom, knowledge, and information. I’m going to add the invitation to consider how they intersect in your coaching practice.
Exploring the Layers:
In today’s digital age, we are inundated with information. A quick internet search yields a plethora of facts, figures, and data. Yet, amidst this abundance of information, true knowledge can sometimes feel elusive. For me, knowledge goes beyond mere facts; it encompasses understanding, insight, and application. As coaches, we sift through the noise of information to distill meaningful knowledge that can truly benefit our clients.
As I was writing this, it occurred to me that, at least for me, there is also my knowing. My knowing feels far more personal than knowledge gained from books. It’s the feeling that, if I’m listening, will guide me from knowing what I want to have for lunch through to knowing what to ask next in a coaching session. It doesn’t need me to intellectually figure anything out; that sense of knowing is just available – even if sometimes it makes no logical sense what the answer is saying!
Moreover, wisdom transcends knowledge. It involves not only knowing but also discerning, reflecting, and acting with prudence. Wisdom is the ability to apply knowledge in a way that is ethical, compassionate, and aligned with one’s values. I don’t know about your coaching practice, but I’m guessing you probably aspire to cultivate wisdom, guiding our clients to make thoughtful decisions and navigate life’s complexities with clarity and grace.
Again, for me, there is a difference between how culturally wisdom is often talked about and our own innate wisdom. Culturally, wisdom seems to come from others and often blends in a mix of cultural beliefs and thinking into the message, whereas our own wisdom feels cleaner in its guidance. For me, it is where that feeling of knowing comes from and is something where I am increasingly deepening my trust as always being available.
The Role of Coaching:
Coaching serves as a catalyst for this journey towards wisdom. Through thought-provoking questions, reflective exercises, and meaningful conversations, we encourage our clients to explore their values, beliefs, and aspirations. We help them uncover the knowledge that lies within, empowering them to make informed choices and take purposeful action.
In our coaching sessions, we go beyond imparting information or expertise. Instead, we create a space for deep inquiry and self-discovery, where clients can tap into their innate wisdom and intuition. By fostering a supportive and non-judgmental environment, we enable our clients to explore new perspectives, challenge limiting beliefs and thinking, and embrace growth opportunities.
Navigating the Information Age:
In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the sheer volume of information available at our fingertips. As coaches, we must help our clients navigate this information overload. As humans, it’s also really common for the thinking in our heads to go at a similar speed and create feelings of overwhelm. We encourage them to slow down, question assumptions, verify sources, and seek out diverse perspectives.
Furthermore, we remind our clients that wisdom is not solely derived from external sources but also from their own lived experiences and inner knowing. This means clients can tap into their intuition and access the wisdom that resides within them.
Conclusion:
T.S. Eliot’s quote challenges us to reevaluate our relationship with knowledge and information in our coaching practice. As coaches, we have a unique opportunity to guide our clients on a journey towards wisdom, helping them navigate the complexities of life with clarity, compassion, and authenticity. By prioritizing self-discovery, critical thinking, and mindful action, we empower our clients to cultivate wisdom in their own lives and become agents of positive change in the world.
Do you agree? Does this align with how you coach? Did the quote prompt something else for you? Feel free to share in the comments.
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.