So weeks have been turning into months. And hopefully, there have been some bright spots in all of this that you’ve been able to enjoy. But at the same time, we’ve all been navigating challenges and uncertainty. And it’s possible to experience various forms of fatigue. In our lives, on our Zoom screens, and in our businesses.
So today, I thought we could all use a nice inspirational shot in the arm.
Most of you know I’m a Life Coach. And coaching isn’t quite advice giving. But that doesn’t mean I’m not able to offer some. And this morning, I’m going to share three things that actually come from some of my own wonderful former coaches.
They’re each significant enough to be sussed out into additional Education Moments, so perhaps I’ll delve into them more deeply in the near future. But for now, here’s are the high level core ideas.
First, from Jodi Larson, a wonderful pioneer in the coaching field. Jodi introduced me to the idea of making sure our circles move down the page. Life and work move in cycles, or circles. In one moment we seem to be going forward. And then the next thing we know, it occurs like we’re moving sideways or backward. Don’t lose heart – or hope. If we are consistent – and persistent – we can make sure that the micro pattern keeps advancing in the macro. Take the relevant actions that will keep your circle moving forward, along the page.
Second, from Laura Fink, both a great therapist and a powerful coach. Years ago, during my first year in training, I was in a lot of action but at one point my practice was stagnating. And so naturally I was down about it. Laura reflected to me what she saw – the effort, the leadership, the work. And she said something I’ll never forget, “Sometimes it’s just a matter of allowing the results to catch up with our actions.” In other words, keep doing what you’re doing but be patient, kind, and present. If you keep going, and doing what you believe are the right things, results will follow.
And third, Mike Shereck – a coach out of Chicago – helped me understand that leadership doesn’t have to look a certain way. There may be right and wrong when it comes to ethics, morals, the law. But we don’t need to fit ourselves into a particular box. I’ve always been someone who loved making people laugh. But I thought that humor didn’t have a place at the big kids’ table of leadership. Mike invited me to combine the two and lead authentically from where I could source my power. In this case, humor being one of the assets I could leverage. I haven’t looked back since.
Lastly, while setting goals for the future is a great idea, and dressing for the job you want rather than the job you have makes a lot of sense, there’s a quote from Arthur Ashe that I believe illuminates the power of the present.
He said the following, “Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.”
