The Train of Emotions: From Virtual Tracks to Real Destinations

Reflecting on Human Connection: Lessons from the ICF Portugal Conference

As I ride the train home from the annual ICF Portugal conference, I feel excited to see my loved ones again. It hasn’t been long since I left, but I miss them deeply.

This journey home also gives me space to reflect on how I felt on the way to Lisbon. I remember thinking: "I’m about to meet, face-to-face, people with whom I’ve spent over 250 hours remotely. I feel such strong connections to them, but how will these translate in person? Will there be awkward silences? Will I lose the connections we’ve built? Will I need to present a version of myself they expect from our virtual meetings, even if it doesn’t come naturally?"

These thoughts filled me with a mix of excitement, anxiety, and, yes, a touch of insecurity.

Now, on my way back, I know how the story unfolded: with hugs, laughter, meaningful conversations, and promises to meet again. The connections were so genuine that meeting in person felt like a natural continuation of the bonds we had already built—seamless and effortless, as though we’d always been together.

Reflecting on this, I find parallels with my experiences as a coach, especially when working remotely. I want to share why I believe such strong relationships flourished virtually and how this applies to coaching:

1. Shared Goals Through Challenges: We united around a common purpose and navigated difficulties together.
2. Authenticity and Vulnerability: We consistently showed up as our true selves, embracing and sharing our vulnerabilities.
3. Constructive Feedback: We created an environment where honest, constructive feedback was welcomed and not avoided.
4. Humor as Connection: Humor was a constant companion, fostering lightness and deeper connections in every interaction.
5. Genuine Interest: We took the time to understand and appreciate each other beyond professional roles. Our interactions weren’t limited to work; they were enriched by curiosity and care.
6. Relationships Built on Trust, Not Transactions: While we acknowledged synergies and individual strengths, our bonds went deeper than mere professional exchanges.

Being together physically was wonderful, but it didn’t make the feelings and connections built remotely any less real or meaningful.

This experience reinforces what I already feel about remote coaching: it works. It’s not the only approach, but it’s a valid and powerful option that shouldn’t deter anyone from giving it a try.

• Insights are real.
• Connections are real.
• Feelings are real.
• Love is real.
• Happiness is real.

To my colleagues who share this journey with me, you each play a unique role in this story. You hold a special (and unique) space in my heart. For the lessons you’ve taught me, for the insights you’ve offered, the encouragement you’ve shown, and the warmth you’ve brought to this journey—thank you

With love: Thene Sheehy , Manuel Beja , Nuno Lopes , Edgar Sabino , Débora Ribeiro Martins , Bento Domingues , Joana Abreu Serra , Damasceno Dias , Carla Santos .