October 2010

One of the benefits of being a coach is that I have the chance to interact with other fine coaches and learn from them. Last weekend, I went on a working retreat to Wintergreen Resort with two trusted colleagues for in-depth conversations about our respective businesses. It was an intense, productive time. I’m glad that I took the opportunity to slow down to think about myself and my work, and look at both through the lens of others whose insights I value. The weekend also allowed me to strengthen my relationships with my amazing friends and learn from their wise insights. 

In addition to the terrific feedback I received on the retreat, I was recently coached by a colleague who helped me realize that my approach to a particular issue was not serving me.  Part of the coaching involved clarifying what I wanted, and how to get there.  By then making different choices, I was able to arrive at a viable solution to the problem.  This is just one example of the many ways that my community of coaches enriches my life.

Other ways that I connect with those in my profession range from quarterly dinners with experienced coaches, to taking classes which expose me to others who are focused on improving their coaching skills. I participate in various on-line forums where ideas and tools are shared among coaches. And, I am fortunate to have a cadre of exceptional coaches that I can turn to for answers to questions that I grapple with as a business owner. Often, I work alongside other coaches and we share learning that helps us to better serve our clients. I’m very grateful for all the blessings that my community of coaches brings to me and my work.

What interactions do you have with your professional community? What opportunities are there for you to learn from, and how do you take advantage of those? How can you develop your professional relationships? If I can support you in that exploration, please let me know.

Sharon
Sharon Keys Seal