Self-coaching: Harnessing the Transformative Power of Coaching

Initially, coaching was solely a professional choice, but as each session unfolded, it unexpectedly transformed into a form of life coaching for me. It enhanced my self-awareness and provided insights into navigating daily challenges. I have consistently harbored a desire to acquire the necessary tools and skills to effectively address challenges related to decision-making and stress management in work-related situations. Engaging in coaching has provided me with the insight to adeptly navigate decision-making and manage stress in both professional and personal spheres. It began unconsciously, even as I was on a journey to become a coach for clients, I eventually became my own coach.

The most powerful and unique aspect of coaching—believing in the individual's innate ability to solve their problems— got embedded in my thoughts. As I progressed in my coaching journey, I gained insights into competencies, effective actions, and situational dos and don'ts. This deepened my capacity to be fully present in the moment, improving my listening skills, and teaching me to refocus my thoughts when distracted.

Furthermore, a pivotal takeaway has been the significance of effective questioning. The power of a concise, well-placed question within a specific context can create a substantial impact. Such questions stimulate thoughts, leading to increased awareness. The beauty of coaching lies in the realization that a simple conversation can result in profound insights. Another aspect that I appreciate is the skill of attentiveness- listening actively, enabling me to grasp what is left unsaid - the non-verbal cues. This ability aligns me to better understand human emotions, allowing me to engage in meaningful conversations and appreciate the underlying thought processes that individuals bring to the table.

In light of these advancements over time, I unknowingly developed the habit of self-coaching in everyday challenges. I began asking myself probing questions to identify the root cause of my concerns rather than getting lost in a sea of thoughts. Another recurring inquiry revolved around how I could handle situations more effectively, providing me with a perspective to channel my energy toward controllable aspects. This prepares me to navigate the VUCA (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, Ambiguous) world, a crucial skill for leaders in today's environment. I am actively embracing change, and besides the valuable aspect of self-reflection, another powerful element in my coaching journey is the supportive peer group that facilitates the sessions. Through these coaching sessions with peer coaches, I am working towards understanding how to effectively embrace changes. This support encourages me to delve deeper into the factors affecting me and strategize on overcoming or mitigating their impact.

The wealth of coaching I've amassed is substantial, and I aspire to continually practice and refine my abilities in this realm wherever and whenever possible to evolve into a better version of myself both personally and professionally.

Author name: Madhu Singh