Today’s quote is:

“I believe myself to possess a most singular combination of qualities exactly fitted to make me pre-eminently a discoverer of the hidden realities of nature.” (Ada Lovelace)

My approach to coaching now is far more focused around discovering the hidden realities of human nature. Well, technically they aren’t really hidden, once you begin to see them it becomes more and more obvious – but that doesn’t link quite so smoothly with the quote lol.

For those who aren’t familiar with Ada Lovelace despite being born at a time and place when general education was not universally available to girls and dying 133 years before Microsoft Windows was formed – she is widely viewed as the first computer programer. The quote comes from a letter she wrote to her mother when she was 26 years of age.

Now some may have read that and formed a story about well she was young and everything seems easier at that age. Others may have read that last paragraph and though well it’s alright for her but I couldn’t do that.

But what if we approached it differently? What if we looked at Ada Lovelace’s statement not as a testament to her innate abilities or her age at the time, but as a reflection of her thinking as she wrote that letter and approach to discovery?

In coaching, we often encounter clients who doubt their own capabilities. They may believe that success is reserved for the lucky few or those with a certain background or upbringing. But what if we challenged those beliefs? What if we encouraged them to see themselves as discoverers of their own potential, equipped with everything they need to navigate the complexities of life and achieve their goals?

This shift in perspective can be transformative. Instead of feeling limited by their circumstances or past experiences, clients begin to see possibilities where they once saw obstacles. They start to recognize the untapped potential within themselves and the hidden opportunities that surround them. And as they cultivate this mindset of discovery, they become more resilient, more creative, and more confident in their ability to create the life they desire.

Discovery

Peeling the layers back even further, just imagine the impact if they really saw that all that was built upon thinking, that the energy and experience was created from within rather than external circumstances even if we have thoughts around those circumstances – what we are feeling is from thinking. That we dont have to take insecure thinking seriously and that pressure and stress can be used as a nudge that we were innocently getting carries away with taking on responsibility in our thinking for roles and situations that we have no control over.

Of course, embracing a mindset of discovery doesn’t mean that the journey will always be easy or straightforward. There will be challenges along the way, moments of doubt, and times when progress seems slow. But just like Ada Lovelace, it’s during these moments that our commitment to discovery is tested, and our capacity for growth is truly revealed.

So, as we reflect on Ada Lovelace’s words and the spirit of discovery that guided her, let’s ask ourselves: What hidden realities of human nature are waiting to be uncovered within us? What unique qualities do we possess that make us pre-eminently suited to explore the depths of our own potential? And how can we embrace the journey of discovery with courage, curiosity, and conviction?

In conclusion, Ada Lovelace’s quote serves as a powerful reminder that we all have the potential to be discoverers of the hidden realities of human nature. By adopting a mindset of curiosity, courage, and perseverance, we can unlock the untapped potential within ourselves and embark on a journey of self-discovery that is as enriching as it is empowering.

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.