It's a Journey
“I couldn’t help but think about the ‘end result’. So often, I was expecting my coaching interactions with providers to end with a certain result. It was just recently that I have become okay with just listening.”
So many times, we focus on the finish line and not what’s happening along the way. Something struck me as I began to think about this idea in relation to my coaching journey.
When I first started coaching, my focus was on mastering the skills and strategies of coaching. Somewhere along the way, my perspective shifted. As I reflect on my growth and development within the realm of coaching, it’s become more about the mindset and the people.
'What are you doing differently,' you might ask. Allow me to share a few of the shifts in my behavior:
- I would try to prep questions ahead of time, but not anymore. It distracts me from being truly present and listening. Now I am diligent with my presence and listening.
- Prior to coaching, I would think about what the dilemma might be. Now I spend my time focusing on the person and what they might need.
- Instead of focusing on just the skills, now I try my best to be open and vulnerable.
And with those shifts, I have found deeper connections and meaning within those experiences. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not suggesting you follow my list of behaviors. What I am asking, is you take some time to reflect on your own coaching journey and discover what works for you.
What shifts have you made? I’d love to hear about your journey and what you uncover along the way…
Submitted by,
Barb Willier, Coaching Coordinator
Pennsylvania Key
Rasheeda Coston, Director of Coaching
Pennsylvania Key
