A monthly recap of my life as a career coach, writer and human being
Update – Friday 7th February 2020
Over twenty years ago now, in my last employed role, my colleague and I for as long as we shared an office always greeted each other after the Christmas break with a ‘happy new year.’ It was how we acknowledged some of the work-based nonsense we’d had to put up with during the year. His decision to move on played a big part in my doing the same, not so long afterwards.
So, as we move through 2020, what will it take to kickstart change in you?
Update – Friday 14th February 2020
Why bother with formal networking events when you can sit down and colour? More and more, I am starting to appreciate the usefulness of colouring as a conversation starter. I suppose I must look a bit incongruous, sitting at the table amongst the toasties, mugs of tea and biscuits with my colouring book, pencils and the departmental pencil sharpener. But be that as it may the guys at the homeless project, usually find time to come along and say hello even if they don’t always want to join in.
And I have the added benefit of a bit of quiet, time punctuated with some interesting and relaxed conversations that appear to happen quite naturally.
Now I’m wondering about Colour and Chat networking ????.
Happy Valentine, everyone.
Update: Friday 21st February 2020
‘Coach like rain’ and I am enough
Two phrases that I have come across in The Book of Coaching, by Ajit Nawalkha and Dr Neeta Bhushan. I’m still only halfway through, but I am enjoying how the authors have included video links to the work and approaches of others.
‘Coach like rain’, ironic given the weather this week comes from Michael Neill and his thoughts on being fully present with your client, showing up, being in the moment without total reliance on tools and techniques. The ‘be like rain approach’, reminds me of my early training in career counselling and the idea of ‘being in a dance with your client.’ Where they lead, you kind of need to follow, metaphorically speaking, which is how you take your coaching to the next level.
I am enough, is from Marisa Peer and her assertion that at the root of most issues is the belief that people don’t think they are enough, not good enough, not rich enough, not successful enough, not lovable enough. You get the picture.
So, my homework for this week is to remind myself that I am enough while coaching like rain.
Update – Friday 28th February 2020
What brings you joy, both personally and professionally?
For me, it’s those moments when something comes together. It just works, and all the elements flow seamlessly together to form a coherent whole. Things suddenly make sense.
- A client shares with you that they have had a moment of clarity and insight.
- When a piece of music I’ve been learning, finally emerges through my fingers on the piano.
- An article, a blog post doesn’t matter what almost writes itself and emerges as a completed piece.
I could go on, but for me, it’s worth remembering that there’s always some joy in the tiniest moments.
Until next time
Janice
