I’m in awe this week, as I consider the four new clients I’ve just started coaching. I’ve never encountered such incredible self honesty and self awareness at the very start of a personal/leadership coaching program. It often takes a while to grow…
These people, from various walks of life, all over regional Australia, two men and two women, have set themselves the most amazing, challenging personal goals. And I mean really personal, personal goals. I love a really raw, honest conversation with a trusted friend and mentor, but I certainly wasn’t up for this kind of conversation when I started coaching. The level of trust these people have in me and the coaching process is amazing and I’m, again, in awe. The outcomes these people will have will be nothing short of astounding – I know they will surprise themselves with the insights they discover along the way.
I hope I can convey my point without sharing any specifics. Think of a time when you may have been really honest with yourself or someone else, facing something that you previously had not faced before – you know, those habits or failings that you want to overcome, but don’t want to look at – it seems easier under the carpet. The thing is, as one of my dear friends, a physcologist and lecturer says “You can’t leave where you’re at, until you own where you’re at”. It’s so true. In looking at what’s really there, your determination to move forward increases, as well as your clarity about how to. It takes your discomfort with the issue to the level that you’re ready to move on, to create a new reality, where that habit or ineffectiveness is no longer.
What are you settling for? Unsettle yourself by looking at what areas you want to change, and take responsibility for your actions and inactions. Create a clear, inspiring picture of the outcome you want, and then clear plans to get you there.
I’ve noticed that I can settle (my husband might laugh, he thinks I’m always throwing myself out of the comfort zone) for some goals not being achieved because I have achieved a lot of others, and I’m really grateful for so much in my life. I’ve realised lately that it’s silly to settle because of that – and it’s not really about that – I can put things in a “too-hard basket” too!
…Until I’ve seen it – then I’m compelled to throw myself out of the comfort zone, (again) and get fully honest about the situation and any limited thinking I’ve applied – and move on!
Hope my ponderings are useful… Let’s get honest and keep growing!
Cheering you on,
Kerrie
