It can be said that the theme of ‘coaching for the greater good’ is an oxymoron. The basic purpose of coaching is to support the growth and development of an individual human being or a set of human beings (often referred to as a team). The type of growth sought is almost always perceived as a potential source for a positive outcome. Thus, ‘coaching for the greater good’ is naturally implicit in the basic act of coaching.
Although quantitative results such as finite achievements and measured outcomes are often requested, coaching is mostly qualitative in nature. There are four qualitative experiences for which coaching is a beacon.
Mindfulness
For purposes of this article, mindfulness is defined as our capacity to be present and tuned into what is happening in our environment, in a situation, or as an experience and how we are responding to that occurrence in any given moment. When we are mindful, we are able to make more intentional choices, observe our actions and thoughts with spaciousness, tune into our body’s response to the way experiences we are having affect us, and be aware of our connection with our self and with others.
Very often, we help our clients to become mindful. They are so busy or intent on achieving something, the lack of mindfulness shows up as a breakdown. We bring a light to where and how they can be mindful and reflective in how he or she approaches and interfaces in situations, relationships, conversations with their self. This is a key aspect of coaching as it often leads to new awareness which opens the window to learning, and thus change.
Regardless of the coaching models we use, there are always queries and in-the-moment exercises that we can introduce that allow clients to observe how they are being in a given moment or the affect an experience or interaction might be having on them.
The one non-discretionary element of mindfulness is silence. Silence, the center of communication, creates the space our brain and body need in order to pause, listen deeply, to center, and to connect with our selves. When we become silent within, chatter stops both from the brain and from our lips. Our body quiets down and create stillness within. Our emotions refrain from being triggered and throwing us into reaction mode. We are able to see a bigger picture, to feel spaciousness inside, and to slow down to the speed of breath.
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