“You don't inspire people by revealing your own superpowers. You inspire people by revealing their own superpowers ”
Alexander den Heijer
ICF defines coaching as partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential.
My Thoughts
Coaching is about creating. Creating sight lines to things that were previously hidden, creating vision around that which was unseen and creating a path to move forward. Coaching creates clarity and direction. My core values of integrity, self-respect and close relationships mean that I will walk with you but I won’t do the work for you, the real value comes in creating your own direction and your own path.
Seeing the hidden
This image is one I often reflect on in my practice of coaching. I took this picture in Kenya in 2007 on, what I would consider to be, my first journey of self-discovery. I went to Africa on my own to ‘celebrate’ and acknowledge my divorce and mark a new beginning.
I was in a truck driving through Lake Nakuru National Park on a game safari and it was nearing the end of the day. I was tired in a way that only Africa can make you, and I was enjoying a silent ride through the park. Suddenly, one of my fellow travelers, stood up and shouted “Stop!” At first, we didn’t know why he was yelling as he pointed into the Acacia trees. When we first looked into the thick forest, we noticed nothing but leaves and trees through the dappled light. Only when we stopped, adjusted our eyes and really listened did the leopard appear.
At the time, I thought it was weird to listen with our eyes and see with our ears but as I continue in my coaching journey it makes perfect sense. Only when we are truly focused and completely present will we see and feel the leopard.
What will you see if you stop and truly focus?