How Rabbit Trails Can Lead to Transformation

"There are times when the client’s topic is exactly what needs to be addressed, but in my experience, giving them some space to talk really helps them get down to their real issue." -J. Val Hastings MCC

As some of you know, J. Val Hastings was my personal coach a couple years ago, for 8 months time, during which I gleaned and grew my own coaching skills as well as gained greater clarity in my the personal relationship with Jesus Christ and my next steps in Gospel-mission with Him!

One thing struck me as odd for a Master Coach like J. Val Hastings to do was he gave me ample time to "just talk." He let me go down some "rabbit-trails," where he would follow along and even ask me to share more! WHAT?!?!? 

But, without knowing what he was doing, something incredible began to happen in our coaching conversations: an environment was established between us that allowed my heart to surface the "nitty-gritty" that longed for release and further reflection! 

But, what bewildered me was that in my being trained to coach, I was taught it was paramount to help the client get to the crux of the result they were hoping to achieve by the end of our session.

J. Val's "rabbit-trail" invite didn't follow the coaching "rules!" 

Yes, I am a rule-follower...and a perfectionist. But J. Val's coaching helped me back down and release my clutch on "rules" or "protocol" when it comes to coaching and remember to follow the Master Coach, Jesus Christ, as our example.

Jesus Christ anticipated and even welcomed "rabbit-trails" in conversation.

And guess what happened when he did?

The REAL ISSUE was surfaced, exposed and opened for further reflection...leading to Divine transformation!

And isn't transformation exactly what we desire for those we serve as we integrate coaching skills into our present roles and ministries? AMEN!

Personal Coaching Reflection:

1. What is your first reaction to "rabbit-trails" early on in a coaching-conversation?
2. What may be driving this reaction?
3. What mind-shift may need to happen so "rabbit-trails" are more welcome in your conversations with others?
4. What Scripture comes to mind and speaks into what you have discovered in your above responses?
5. What tailor-made next step do you want to take to develop your coaching skills/mindsets in this area today?

Thank you for investing a few minutes to further practicing and developing your coaching skills and mindsets!   

I am always looking for practical ways to serve others with my coaching and coaching training.

Feel free to connect with me and let me know how I may further serve you!

Helping you live aligned to your design for greatest Gospel impact,

Tami Thorsen

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