Alchemy as my metaphor for Coaching

I have recently completed the classroom sessions, starting my journey to become an ICF certified Coach. As a part of this journey with Erickson International Training led by Gaurav Aurora (https://www.dhirubhai.net/in/gauravaroragrv/ ) my classmates (18 of us!) and I have been asked to reflect and write about our metaphor for coaching.?

I have spent time reflecting on my metaphor for Coaching and initial ideas were that of an Anchor and a Catalyst. Anchor gave me the imagery of being stuck in a place ( though for the right reasons)? and the catalyst looked better but the dimension of enabling transformation anchored to an internally true state and realizing the full potential, were missing for me.

I inadvertently started reading ‘Alchemist’ by Paulo Coelho for the nth time after a gap of several years. This got me thinking about the role of the King, Gypsy, Englishman and the Alchemist in the life of Santiago in this story. This also got me diving deeper into reflecting on Alchemy, which is shrouded in mystery, symbolism and its comparisons to Coaching processes. As the Alchemist says in the book “Alchemy is about penetrating the Soul of the World and discovering the treasure that has been reserved for you”, so is Coaching, which for me is a process of discovering the treasure within each of us with the help of a Coach. Below are some common themes? of Alchemy that are relevant to Coaching as well .

Stages of Transformation: The Original alchemical process involveed 4 key stages: nigredo (confusion), albedo (purification), citrinitas (clarity) and rubedo (new path) , each of these phases could roughly be compared to a phase in the coachees'? journey. From a state of confusion and uncertainty, to visualizing new possibilities. The process comes to life with coachee reaffirming commitment to change rooted in one's values and identity followed by action planning and finally achieving the desired outcomes.

Prima Materia: In alchemy, the base material is what? undergoes transformation. Similarly, in coaching, the coachee's current state serves as the prima materia. The coach helps the coachee clearly articulate one's goals, help solidify their commitment, anchored in one’s identity and values.

Philosopher's Stone: The philosopher's stone in Alchemy is a mythical substance believed to possess the power to transform base metals into gold. In coaching, the philosopher's stone represents the inherent potential of the coachee—the untapped resources and strengths waiting to be discovered. The coach helps coachee uncover their inner wisdom and harness their potential, leading to personal growth.

Hermetic Principles: Alchemy is guided by principles like? Polarity, Correspondence and Rhythm. These principles apply to coaching as well. The coach helps Coachee recognize the interconnectedness between their inner world and outer experiences, empowering them to create positive changes in their lives all with the firm belief that everything is doable by humans.

Alchemical Crucible: The alchemical crucible is the vessel in which the transformation takes place. It represents the safe and supportive space created by the coach, where coachee can explore their challenges and opportunities without judgment. The coach holds this safe space for coachee to experiment, learn, and grow.

Art of Transmutation: Alchemy is the art of transmuting base metals into gold, representing the transformation of ordinary experiences into extraordinary outcomes. In coaching, the coach helps coachee transmute their challenges into learning opportunities, setbacks into learning experiences.

Great Work: The ultimate goal of alchemy is to achieve the ‘Great Work’. In coaching, this represents the Coachee highest potential and the realization of their life purpose. The coach supports coachee in reaching their full potential and living a meaningful and fulfilling life.

Performance (p) is equal to potential (P) minus interference (I), or p = P - I; says Timothy Gallwey in his book - The Inner Game of Tennis .? Interference here could be lack of drive, clarity, conviction , motivation, low confidence, fear, being over-confident and not being grounded in the present moment et cetera. It is in this context that modern day coaches play the role of ancient Alchemists. Great coaches create a transformative and empowering experience for their coachees, guiding them on a journey of self-discovery, growth, and personal transformation just as Alchemists would turn base metals into Gold !

Keen to learn more together and please share your reflections.