proverb

Focus: Presence in Coaching

23 April 2024 in quote tagged coach / coaches / coaching / focus / presence / proverb / quote

This is done in an animated concept art style. Rolling green fields stretch out to the horizon. Green, oak type trees can be seen interspersed throughout the landscape. The viewer's focus is on a lone sheep which is stood turning to look in our direction. The text reads: "A sheep can not bleat in two different places at the same time." (Proverb)

Today’s quote is:

“A sheep can not bleat in two different places at the same time.” (proverb)

It’s often said that in today’s modern world, finding focus amidst the cacophony of demands and distractions can feel like an elusive goal. This proverb speaks directly to the challenge of maintaining singular focus—a challenge that many coaches and their clients can grapple with on a daily basis.

If our thoughts and perceptions shape our reality, influencing how we perceive and respond to the world around us, how does that relate to this proverb? When we find ourselves overwhelmed by distractions or pulled in multiple directions, it may seem natural to attribute it to external factors. However, could it be a sign that our thinking has become fragmented, leading to a loss of focus and effectiveness?

Many of us have experienced moments of intense focus, where our attention is wholly absorbed in a single task. You’ve probably can think of an example when you were really focused upon a task at hand and oblivious to what else was going on around you. Maybe you got engrossed in a film or TV show, got lost in the story of a good book, or were just concentrating so hard on a project that time seem to fly by?

If you haven’t already seen the video below used in Daniel Simons and Christopher Chabris 1999 research into selective attention – you’re welcome to watch and follow the instructions on the screen.

The metaphor of the sheep unable to bleat in two different places simultaneously serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of single-pointed focus. Just as a sheep cannot divide its attention between multiple locations, neither can we divide our focus and energy without sacrificing clarity and effectiveness. By understanding the role of thought in shaping our experience, coaches can learn to cultivate a sense of presence and concentration that allows them to show up fully for their clients.

In coaching, maintaining focus is not just about managing external distractions—it’s also about cultivating a deep sense of presence and connection with our clients. When we show up fully for our clients, listening deeply and responding with empathy and understanding, we create a space for transformation and growth to occur.

One of the things that I have found with a greater understanding that our experience is created through the power of thought, is that I no longer spend anywhere near as much time feeling a need to wrestle with my thoughts or try to control them. Instead, I can simply observe my thoughts as they arise, recognising them far quicker for what they are—transient mental events that do not define who we are. Does it mean I never get caught up in a compelling thought (or whole chunks of thinking as a compelling story)? No, it’s just I tend to not take much of the thinking I used to far less seriously than before.

As coaches, we can help our clients recognise the impact of their own thinking on their experience of life. By guiding them to explore the nature of thought and its role in shaping their reality, we empower them to find greater clarity, resilience, and focus in their lives.

So what do you do as a coach if you feel before that your focus is split? I remember when I first started out in coaching, I used to think that there would be a set answer to this question – and this and variations of this question I considered a lot! Many years later, I’m going to start this by saying what I have principle learned from my own experience and talking to other coaches is that it will depend. There is no right or wrong answers here – just ones that will make an impact for you in that moment!

Perhaps there are things that you know that when you do them you seem to have a better day – perhaps it’s a morning cup of coffee or taking the dog for a walk. Maybe it’s allowing yourself time to take a moment just to focus on your breath, or you have a particular book you flick through and whatever page you land on seems to have a significant message for you. Sometimes you may just remember to ask yourself a question such as what would let you become even more focused right now? or to just do whatever occurs to you to quieten and drop your thinking.

In conclusion, the proverb “A sheep cannot bleat in two different places at the same time” underscores the importance of single-pointed focus and presence in coaching. By creating a space for deep listening, understanding, and transformation to occur, our clients can benefit from our full presence. Let us, as coaches, embody the power of presence, knowing that it is through our focused attention that true connection and growth can unfold in our coaching relationships

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.

What Does An Invisible Hippopotamus Have To Do With Coaching?

9 April 2024 in quote tagged beliefs / coach / coaches / coaching / invisible / proverb / unseen thinking

A drawing of a hippopotamus sat facing us with his front legs together and back legs sprayed outwards. The hippo has pink patches on the underside of his back two feet, the part of his chest/belly that we can see, and pink inner ears. The text reads: "A hippopotamus can be made invisible in dark waters." (African proverb)

Today’s quote is a proverb:

“A hippopotamus can be made invisible in dark waters.” (African proverb)

It seems like basic common sense that if you are in the habitat of a dangerous wild animal, then it is wise to be aware and respectful of their potential presence. I have a healthy respect for hippopotamus’ but I’m no expert, so for me, it was how this proverb could also apply to coaching that prompted me to write this post.

This ancient saying resonates deeply with the essence of coaching, for me, as it offers insights into the unseen aspects of human experience. While it may initially evoke images of the dangers lurking in ignorance of one’s physical surroundings, it also holds a profound metaphorical meaning for our coaching practice.

I interpret this proverb as a metaphor for the hidden forces that influence our thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. Just as a hippopotamus vanishes beneath the surface of dark waters, so too can our deepest fears, insecurities, and potential remain concealed from view. In coaching, we often uncover hidden beliefs and thinking; when clients have an insight and suddenly recognize thoughts or beliefs they hadn’t consciously acknowledged before. These insights can profoundly and immediately impact their behaviour and perspective.

In coaching, we often embark on journeys to uncover these hidden aspects of ourselves and our clients. We navigate the murky depths of the mind, shedding light on the shadows that lurk within. Through open dialogue and introspection, we assist our clients in exploring these unseen forces, guiding them towards greater self-awareness and understanding.

However, the resonance of this proverb extends beyond its literal interpretation. It speaks to the power of perception and the illusion of reality. Like the hippopotamus fading into obscurity in the darkness, our perceived problems and limitations can dissolve when viewed through the lens of understanding.

As coaches, we help our clients see beyond the surface appearances of their circumstances. We invite them to delve beneath the waves of their thoughts and emotions, uncovering the deeper truths that lie hidden beneath. By illuminating the unseen forces at play, we empower our clients to navigate the waters of change with clarity and confidence.

But how do we make the invisible visible? How do we guide our clients in seeing beyond the surface of their experiences? It begins with a shift in perspective—a willingness to look beyond the superficial and embrace a deeper understanding of reality. As coaches, we serve as guides, illuminating the path ahead and helping our clients discern the unseen forces that shape their lives.

Through deep listening, compassionate inquiry, and our own understanding, we create a safe space for exploration and discovery. We encourage our clients to trust in their intuition and wisdom, guiding them towards insights and breakthroughs that lead to profound transformation.

In conclusion, the proverb “A hippopotamus can be made invisible in dark waters” offers a poignant reminder of the unseen forces that shape our lives. As coaches, we have the privilege of shedding light on these hidden truths, guiding our clients towards greater self-awareness and understanding. By embracing the unseen depths of coaching, we empower our clients to navigate the waters of change with clarity, confidence, and courage.

I’m curious, presuming that you read the title of this post before the actual content – what answers did you have in your head about what could possibly be a connection between invisible hippopotamus’ and coaching? Feel free to drop any thoughts in a comment below.

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.

Beyond Belief: Discovering Freedom in Thought

2 April 2024 in quote tagged belief / burden / coach / coaches / coaching / proverb / quote / thinking / Thought

This is a drawn image of a hen on a white background. The hen is stood and has light grey feathers and orange beak and feet. The eyes are drawn as if closed and with eyelashes. She has red plumage on the top of her head and under her beak.
The text reads: "A hen is heavy over a long distance." (Irish proverb)

Happy Tuesday! Today’s quote is a proverb:

“A hen is heavy over a long distance.” (Irish proverb)

At first glance, when we take this proverb literally, it makes sense that if we carry anything over a long period of time then it does indeed seem to get heavier.

The first memory that sprang to my mind was from when I used to walk an elderly small dog. On one occasion, she decided she was tired and had had enough of this stroll. Which meant I ended up carrying her back home down the road. She was delighting in this regal treatment, and insisting she paused to let anyone passing admire her at this new vantage height. The road usually seemed like a short stretch, but she seemed to get heavier, and the road longer, the longer I carried her!

At its core, the Irish proverb “A hen is heavy over a long distance” offers profound wisdom that extends far beyond the literal interpretation. It speaks to the weightiness that accumulates with prolonged carrying or holding onto something, whether physical or mental.

Reflecting on my experience of carrying the elderly dog down the road, I couldn’t help but draw parallels to the burdens we carry in our minds. Just as the dog seemed to grow heavier with each step, our thoughts, especially the repetitive ones, can weigh us down over time. These thoughts, often labelled as beliefs, have a way of becoming heavier and more burdensome the longer we hold onto them.

In coaching, we recognize that beliefs are not static truths, but rather habitual patterns of thought that we’ve given significance to. They can shape our perceptions, emotions, and behaviours, influencing our experience of reality. However, the beauty of the human mind is its innate capacity for fluidity and change.

When we begin to see our thoughts for what they are—transient mental events rather than concrete realities—we open the door to freedom and transformation. Just as the dog became lighter once I put her down, our burdensome thoughts lose their weight when we release our grip on them.

It’s a simple yet profound shift in perspective: from being controlled by our thoughts to recognizing that we are the thinkers engaging with them. This realization empowers us to let go of unhelpful beliefs and embrace a lighter, more fluid way of being.

So how do we release the weight of heavy thoughts? It starts with awareness. By becoming mindful that even though our thinking can seem so real at times, it has an illusory nature, we can observe them without getting entangled in them. We can choose to step back and question the validity of our beliefs, recognizing that they are simply mental constructs, not immutable truths.

In the coaching process, we guide our clients in this journey of self-discovery and liberation. We help them see beyond the illusion of their heavy thoughts, encouraging them to explore new perspectives and possibilities. Through compassionate inquiry and gentle guidance, we support them in letting go of limiting beliefs and embracing a mindset of openness and curiosity.

Sometimes, the act of letting go happens spontaneously, like a heavy burden slipping off our shoulders when we least expect it. Other times, it requires patience and persistence as we gradually loosen our grip on ingrained patterns of thought. But with each moment of release, we experience a newfound sense of lightness and freedom.

In essence, the proverb “A hen is heavy over a long distance” serves as a poignant reminder to examine the weight of our thoughts and beliefs. By acknowledging their transient nature and cultivating a mindset of openness and fluidity, we can lighten the load we carry and move through life with greater ease and joy.

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.

Gaining Clarity: Exploring a Coaching Perspective Through a Fresh Lens

26 March 2024 in quote tagged coach / coaches / coaching / coaching business / fresh eyes / perspective / proverb

Today’s quote is actually a proverb:

“A guest sees more in an hour than the host in a year.” (Polish proverb)

At first glance, the proverb may seem paradoxical. How can a guest, who spends only a fleeting moment in a host’s domain, possess greater insight than the host, who dwells within it year-round? The answer lies in the power of perception and perspective. A guest enters a situation with fresh eyes, unencumbered by preconceived notions or biases. They notice the subtle details, observe the interactions, and absorb the ambiance in a way that the host may overlook in their familiarity.

I think this proverb points to one of the aspects that many find really powerful about coaching. The coach acts a trusted pair of fresh eyes upon a situation. What may just seem to a client that something has always been the case, and it’s never occurred to them to question may be obvious to a coach to question. It’s from this coaching perspective that we can have impact.

In the realm of coaching, this proverb takes on a deeper significance. Coaches often serve as trusted guides, offering insights from a coaching perspective on their clients’ experiences and challenges. Like the guest in the proverb, coaches approach each coaching session with a sense of curiosity and openness, ready to explore new insights and perspectives alongside their clients.

One of the unique aspects of coaching is the ability to create a safe and supportive space for clients to share their thoughts, feelings, and experiences without fear of judgment or criticism. In this way, coaches act as facilitators of exploration and discovery, helping their clients uncover hidden truths and insights that may have eluded them in their day-to-day lives.

Moreover, the proverb underscores the importance of presence in coaching. By remaining fully present and engaged during coaching sessions, coaches can pick up on subtle cues and nuances in their clients’ words and behaviours, allowing for a deeper exploration of their experiences and perceptions. This heightened level of awareness enables coaches to provide more targeted and impactful guidance, helping their clients navigate challenges and obstacles with greater clarity and confidence.

A different coaching perspective

From another coaching perspective, looking at our own coaching and coaching business with new eyes can also be revealing. How easy is it for an interested client to get in touch with you? What information does someone new to your coaching need? By adopting the perspective of a guest in our own coaching practice, we can uncover areas for improvement and refinement that may have gone unnoticed in our day-to-day operations.

For example, imagine stepping into the shoes of a potential client visiting your coaching website for the first time. Are your services clearly outlined? Is your contact information easily accessible? Do you demonstrate the value of your coaching? By considering these questions from the perspective of an outsider, you can identify opportunities to enhance the accessibility and effectiveness of your coaching business.

Furthermore, the proverb encourages us to embrace a mindset of continuous learning and growth in our coaching practice. Just as a guest brings fresh insights and perspectives to a host’s home, so too can ongoing education and professional development enrich our coaching skills and offerings. Whether through attending workshops, seeking mentorship, or engaging in peer-to-peer learning, coaches can expand their knowledge and expertise, ultimately benefiting both themselves and their clients.

By adopting the perspective of a guest in our coaching practice, we not only gain valuable insights into our own blind spots and areas for improvement but also cultivate a deeper understanding and appreciation for the transformative power of coaching. Just as a guest sees more in an hour than the host in a year, so too can we uncover new possibilities and opportunities for growth by approaching our coaching with fresh eyes and an open heart.

As we continue on our coaching journey, let us embrace the wisdom of the proverb and strive to create dynamic and enriching coaching experiences that inspire growth, insight, and transformation for ourselves and our clients alike.

Ultimately, the Polish proverb “A guest sees more in an hour than the host in a year” reminds us of the transformative power of perspective and perception in coaching. By embracing humility, curiosity, and openness, coaches can create dynamic and enriching coaching experiences that foster growth, insight, and self-discovery for both themselves and their clients.

As we reflect on this proverb, let us remember to use our coaching perspective as the wisdom of the guest and strive to approach each coaching session with fresh eyes and an open heart, ready to explore new insights and possibilities together with our clients.

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.

Transcending Perception: Exploring the Depths of Reality

19 March 2024 in quote tagged coach / coaches / coaching / perception / proverb / quote / reality

This is a drawn image with brown, greens and white as the colour scheme.
In the foreground is a huge anthill with a bird pirched upon the top. This anthill, from our perception as the viewer, is the same height as the trees in the background.
The text reads: “A bird that flies off the earth and lands on an anthill is still on the ground.” (Nigerian proverb)

Happy Tuesday! Today’s quote is acually a proverb:

“A bird that flies off the earth and lands on an anthill is still on the ground.” (Nigerian proverb)

This proverb jumped out to me as reflecting something I’m sure we’ve all come across in coaching and as individuals. In the realm of human experience, we often find ourselves confined by the limitations of our own perceptions. We perceive the world through the lens of our thoughts, beliefs, and past experiences, unwittingly creating barriers that hinder our ability to see beyond the surface of reality.

At first glance, this proverb may seem like a simple observation of physical reality. Indeed, a bird may soar high into the sky, but when it alights on an anthill, it remains tethered to the earth. However, if we delve deeper, we uncover a profound truth about the nature of perception and the illusory nature of boundaries.

From a coaching perspective, this proverb invites us to explore the nature of our own perceptions and the ways in which they shape our experience of reality. Just as the bird remains bound by the earth despite its ability to fly, we too remain bound by the limitations of our own thinking.

If we recognise that our experience of reality is not determined by external circumstances, but by the thoughts that pass through our minds, then I’ve found it can become easier to question the truth of those perceptions. We are like the bird, soaring through the vast expanse of the sky, yet tethered to the ground by the invisible threads of our own perceptions.

When we cling to limiting beliefs and entrenched patterns of thinking, we remain trapped within the confines of our own minds, unable to see beyond the boundaries we have created for ourselves. We may strive for success, happiness, and fulfillment, but as long as we are bound by the limitations of our own perceptions, we will continue to feel stuck and constrained.

But what if we could learn to see beyond these self-imposed boundaries? What if we could tap into a deeper level of understanding that transcends the limitations of our own thinking? This is where the transformative power of coaching comes into play.

As coaches, our role is not to provide answers or solutions, but to guide our clients on a journey of self-discovery and exploration. We help them uncover the invisible barriers that hold them back and support them in seeing beyond the confines of their own perceptions. Cultivating an understanding about the illusionary nature of those “barriers” also can make it much easier to see through them in the future.

Through deep listening, insightful questioning, and gentle guidance, we help our clients tap into their innate wisdom and insight, enabling them to see the world with fresh eyes and explore new possibilities. We encourage them to let go of limiting beliefs and embrace a mindset of openness, curiosity, and possibility.

In doing so, we help them break free from the constraints of their own thinking and experience a newfound sense of freedom and possibility. Like the bird that takes flight, they soar above the limitations of their own perceptions and discover a world of infinite potential.

In conclusion, the Nigerian proverb reminds us that true freedom lies not in breaking free from external constraints, but in transcending the limitations of our own perceptions. As coaches, we have the privilege of guiding our clients on this journey of self-discovery and transformation, helping them uncover the boundless possibilities that lie beyond the boundaries of their own minds.

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.

Flexibility in Action: Navigating Life’s Twists with Grace

12 March 2024 in quote tagged adaptability / coach / coaches / coaching / coincidence / flexibility / planning / proverb

A 3D faceless human figure is stood to the right of a flip chart and stand. The figure is wearing a black tie and is pointing to the flip chart. The words on the flip chart reads: "Coincidence defeats a well-laid plan" (Filipino proverb)

Happy Tuesday! Today’s quote is actually a proverb:

“Coincidence defeats a well-laid plan” (Filipino proverb)

While it may seem counterintuitive, this proverb carries profound wisdom that resonates with both our personal and professional experiences.

In our fast-paced world, we can often pride ourselves on meticulous planning and strategic thinking. We meticulously outline our goals, chart our course of action, and leave little room for deviation. However, despite our best efforts, life has a way of throwing unexpected curveballs our way.

Think about a time when you meticulously planned every detail of an event or project, only to have it derailed by an unforeseen coincidence or twist of fate. Perhaps it was a chance encounter that led to a serendipitous opportunity, or a random event that completely altered the trajectory of your plans. Whatever the case, these moments serve as powerful reminders that we are not always in control of our circumstances.

Real life can be fluid, and situations can change in manners we could never have imagined. Let’s face it; a global pandemic in 2020 was not on many people’s radar as a possibility. By necessity, many plans had to be altered, be they personal or business ones.

So, how do we reconcile the tension between planning for the future and embracing the uncertainty of the present? How do we navigate the delicate balance between intentionality and spontaneity in our coaching practice?

Flexibility and Adaptability

One approach is to adopt flexibility and adaptability. Instead of rigidly adhering to our plans, we can learn to embrace the unexpected and see coincidences as potential catalysts for growth and innovation. Rather than viewing them as obstacles to our success, we can reframe them as opportunities for learning and discovery. Or just look at them as the next step to complete.

Moreover, coincidences often have a way of revealing hidden patterns or connections that we may not have noticed before. They can serve as valuable clues or signposts that guide us toward new insights or directions. By remaining open and receptive to these synchronicities, we can tap into a deeper wisdom that transcends our logical reasoning.

In my coaching practice, I’ve seen firsthand the transformative power of embracing coincidence and spontaneity. Instead of viewing them as disruptive forces, I encourage my clients to see them as invitations to explore new possibilities and perspectives. By letting go of rigid expectations and embracing the flow of life, they often discover hidden opportunities and insights that lead to profound shifts in their thinking and behavior. When we think that something “should” happen a certain way, then it’s entirely possible we just aren’t thinking to look for other potentially easier or better routes, etc.

By the very conversational style of coaching, it lends itself to being flexible and adaptable. You may have an idea where the conversation is heading, but at any question, it may become obvious it needs to diverge in a different direction.

I’ve spoken to so many over the years who are just starting as a coach and feel that they should have the conversation fixed in their heads ahead of time. That they need to know all the questions that they “should” ask and have a plan for any technique, story, or exercise they think they may use during the session.

Clinging onto that belief, that way of thinking means that they also tell me that they feel pressure and tension. When they let go of that expectation and release that thinking, they find that they can relax into their coaching, and the conversation usually flows much more easily.

Of course, this is not to say that planning is irrelevant or unnecessary. Planning provides us with a sense of direction and purpose, helping us to stay focused and organized in pursuit of our goals. However, it’s essential to recognize that plans are not set in stone and that flexibility is key to navigating the complexities of life.

In conclusion, the proverb “Coincidence defeats a well-laid plan” reminds us of the inherent unpredictability of life and the importance of remaining open and adaptable in the face of uncertainty. By embracing coincidence as a natural part of the human experience, we can harness its transformative power and navigate life’s twists and turns with grace and resilience.

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.

Understanding Why Clients Struggle to Quit a Project

13 February 2024 in quote tagged coach / coaches / coaching / fear of failure / obstacles / proverb / quit / self worth

3D letters made in a light coloured natural wood spells out the word QUIT on a black background. The text reads "Of all the stratagems, to know when to quit is the best." (Chinese proverb)

Today’s quote is actually a proverb:

“Of all the stratagems to know when to quit is the best.” (Chinese proverb)

This may seem like common sense at times, but I’m sure we’ve all been in situations where, with the benefit of hindsight, we missed the signs of quitting something at an earlier stage. I suspect that you’ve seen clients continue with something long after it seemed obvious to you, with your external perspective, that they just weren’t seeing quitting as an option.

So, what are some of the reasons why someone may not “quit”?

Thinking quitting will mean something about their own worth/identity: It’s not uncommon for someone to have deeply held beliefs around what quitting will mean about their identity. They may be living by a huge set of unconscious rules of how they should behave, and quitting something just isn’t in line with those restrictions.

Fear of Failure: One of the primary reasons clients hesitate to quit is the fear of failure. They may worry about what others will think or feel a sense of shame or inadequacy. As coaches, it’s essential to create a safe and non-judgmental space where clients can explore these fears openly.

Attachment to Comfort Zone: Clients may resist quitting because they’re accustomed to the familiarity and predictability of their current situation, even if it’s not serving them. As coaches, we can gently challenge our clients to expand their comfort zone and explore new possibilities.

External Expectations: Clients may feel pressure to persist in their endeavors due to external expectations from family, friends, or society. They may fear disappointing others or feel obligated to fulfill certain roles or responsibilities. As coaches, it’s important to help clients distinguish between their own desires and the expectations imposed upon them by others. By encouraging them to align their actions with their authentic values and aspirations, we can empower them to make choices that honor their true selves.

Sunk Cost Fallacy: The sunk cost fallacy refers to the tendency to continue investing in a failing endeavor because of the resources already committed, even when it’s clear that the investment is unlikely to pay off. Clients may resist quitting because they’re reluctant to admit that their efforts have been in vain. As coaches, we can help clients recognize the fallacy of this thinking and encourage them to focus on the future rather than dwelling on past investments. You will no doubt have your own approach to this; personally, I favor helping a client see their own worth is not connected with whatever the endeavor is.

Perceived Lack of Alternatives: Clients may believe that quitting is the only option available to them, leading them to feel trapped in their current situation. Helping clients explore alternative paths and possibilities can empower them to see quitting as a choice rather than a dead end.

Uncertainty about the Future: Fear of the unknown can also play a significant role in resistance to quitting. Clients may worry about what lies ahead if they choose to quit, leading them to cling to the familiarity of their current circumstances. Assisting clients in reframing uncertainty as an opportunity for growth and exploration can alleviate this fear.

External Validation: Some clients may rely heavily on external validation and approval from others. They may fear losing the admiration or respect of their peers if they choose to quit, leading them to prioritize external validation over their own well-being. Encouraging clients to cultivate self-validation and trust in their own judgment can help them overcome this obstacle.

What else should go on this list? Add your thoughts in the comments below.

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.

From Talk to Action: Navigating the Coaching Landscape with Purpose

30 January 2024 in quote tagged action / coach / coaching / proverb / quote / talk

Today’s quote of the day is a proverb:

“Between saying and doing many a pair of shoes is worn out.” (Italian proverb)

In the world of coaching, we can frequently encounter individuals who find themselves caught in a cycle of talking about change without making any tangible progress. Today’s quote of the day perfectly encapsulates this dilemma: “Between saying and doing many a pair of shoes is worn out.” This Italian proverb serves as a poignant reminder that mere words can lead to a lot of talk without meaningful action. As coaches, it is our responsibility to guide our clients—and ourselves—towards overcoming this hurdle and fostering a culture of decisive actions.

So here are some coaching related thoughts prompted by todays proverb:

Unveiling Authentic Desires:

Identifying True Wants: As coaches, our first task is to discern whether the goals being discussed align with the individual’s authentic desires. Distinguishing between societal expectations and genuine aspirations is crucial for cultivating meaningful change.

Exploring Heartfelt Motivations: Encourage clients to explore their heartfelt motivations. Understanding the emotional connection to their goals provides a solid foundation for sustained commitment and determination, driving actions that align with their true selves.

Addressing Obstacles to Action:

Unraveling Perceived Barriers: Explore the barriers that hinder clients from taking tangible steps. By uncovering these perceived obstacles, coaches can offer targeted interventions, addressing the root causes of inaction and fostering a path towards progress.

Overcoming Inertia: Introduce the concept of inertia as a common hurdle. Commencing action, even with small steps, can break the cycle of stagnation. Emphasize the transformative power of momentum and how progress becomes easier with consistent movement.

Embracing the Overwhelm: For some, overwhelming challenges can be met with a flood of purposeful actions. Explore this approach, encouraging clients to immerse themselves in meaningful activities to counteract analysis paralysis and catalyze change.

Focusing on Immediate Steps:

Identifying the Next Action: Shift the focus from grand goals to the immediate next step. By identifying and completing this step, clients gain a sense of accomplishment, making subsequent actions clearer and more manageable.

Trusting the Process: Encourage a spontaneous approach, allowing subsequent actions to unfold naturally. Trusting the process and adapting as needed allows clients to respond authentically to the evolving dynamics of their journey.

The Role of Uncertainty:

Comfort in Not Knowing: Acknowledging the uncertainty in coaching conversations is essential. Get comfortable with not knowing the exact plan until the moment arises. Every client is unique, and their insights may lead to unexpected revelations that guide the coaching direction.

Foundermentally: Listening and Clarity: At its core, coaching revolves around listening and gaining clarity. Emphasize the importance of being present in the coaching conversation, understanding the client’s perspective, and allowing the direction to unfold organically.

Embracing the “When”: I encourage coaches to embrace not knowing the “when” until it naturally emerges in the conversation. Resisting the urge to pre-plan responses fosters a more authentic and pleasant coaching experience.

What did the proverb prompt for you with your coaching style and approach?

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.