COACHES AS THINKING PARTNERS
Coaching is a partnership. An engagement of collaboration and co-creation.
And most importantly a conversation that sparks a process of thinking and learning.
This is what differentiates it from other modalities in the ‘helping’ space.
The power of a coachee’s resourcefulness is inextricably linked to the power of their independent thinking. Supported by the coach as their thinking partner.
Here’s how, through a real-life example …
In a role reversal of sorts, I was being coached recently by a leadership coach.
As she held space and listened intently to my issue, I saw myself unpacking things that seem all boxed up in my head.
She was paying keen attention to my sharing – nodding, encouraging and acknowledging throughout.
Her curiosity to know more made me comfortable to swim deeper below the surface in search of my answers. To encounter my deep-seated beliefs and my emotions.
I observed that she was using my own language to help me see the real meaning behind my words.
Even as she provoked further thought by probing and challenging me with incisive questions.
Questions that I would have skirted or addressed superficially, left on my own.
She checked what was emerging for me in the present as she noticed subtle shifts in my energy patterns.
Suddenly, I was able to join the dots in a moment of epiphanic realization.
As the conversation came to an end, I had far more clarity in my thoughts about the issue on hand.
It all boiled down to one word – ATTENTION
The coach’s quality of attention in our conversation had a direct impact on the quality of my thinking and reflection.
Coaches are thinking partners because of their ability to stimulate generative thinking in their clients.
Creating shifts in perspectives, opening up possibilities and helping them see beyond.
Happy to help you experience it for yourself. Drop in a message.
