At the start of any coaching journey the road signs probably point to insights, released potential, new and more polished skills, personal and professional development. Quite rightly, they are a useful frame for the process.
Coachee and coach have already agreed they’ll make the journey together, armed with some goals for the destination.
All seems clear. And yet the start requires taking a courageous step into a misty landscape. The road, like life, isn’t straight. Rather it unfolds as the conversation deepens, new challenges emerge, and the discoveries become more profound in the safe space that is created.
Leadership can be a lonely business. Coaching brings the safety and stretch to be open and honest with self.
To explore new ways of being.
To find and energise new resources and potential.
To clarify ‘wood from trees.’ And to emerge with greater self-insight, presence and impact. The journey is often one of transformation.
As a coach, I am reminded, in every conversation, of the privilege it is to walk alongside, to be of use (hopefully), and to witness magical shifts.