Transformational Coaching

November 2005

Lately I’ve been thinking about a quote I once read from Harvey Mackay, in which he stated “People begin to become successful the minute they decide to be.” There is more in that than first meets the eye. If we put the emphasis on “decide,” our thoughts go to things like decision-making, evaluating choices, mental gymnastics, and taking that first scary step which is deciding. But what if Mr. Mackay’s emphasis was on the “be?” What if he is really talking about the “being” as fundamental in a person’s success? Where would that line of thought take us?

This goes to the core of how I view my work with coaching clients. Sure, I coach on new techniques (such how to communicate effectively with a team, managing direct reports, etc.) and give tips (such as how to deal with conflict, designing a career strategy, etc.). We often talk about your thought process and your perspective on your work, and how you might want to think about problems or challenges differently. But my overall goal in our work together is personal transformation in you, my client. It is helping you to determine how you need to be different, not just act differently or think differently.

A successful coaching relationship is not just about ratcheting up performance; it is a journey of transformation. The way you are being is what will ultimately govern what is possible and not possible in your life and in your work. My goal is to help you to see beyond your passion (and sometimes your pride). Our work, if it is to be truly meaningful and lasting, must raise the questions of who you are, what you do, and why you do it. Leaving out any one of those does not serve you.

I encourage you to think about success, and decide what that will look like for you. Then, give some thought to the being part of the success you desire. Who do you need to become in order to achieve the success you have decided to have? It is my privilege to support you in that journey of becoming.

Sharon
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