\n\tI recently completed my sessions with an executive coach, my first coaching experience. From a personal perspective it has delivered an entirely new suite of tools that have enhanced my performance professionally, and permeated my personal life also.<\/p>\n
\n\tWe started simply, with a discussion around what I thought my role was, and what it would look like in an ideal sense. We then identified the steps I needed to take to get to a defined point within 12 months. This involved investigating the role, analysing where the focus needed to be and where my energy flowed, both naturally\u2026 and not so naturally. That initial discussion uncovered a number of areas to work on \u2013 who hasn’t had to manage negative self-talk and self-doubt?<\/p>\n
\n\tMy coach then began to share ideas about how I could take control of some of the areas I felt I needed to progress in. She introduced me to the concept of Dr Adam Fraser’s third space \u2013 the 1st space is what you’re doing now, the 2nd space is what you’re about to do and the 3rd is the gap in middle, which allows you to compartmentalise. If you’re interested in learning more there are some simple YouTube videos that can help.<\/p>\n
\n\tWe explored the importance of mindfulness, being present and switching off with self-reflection. Together, we looked at Stephen Covey’s Circles of Influence and Concern, and prioritisation model; Gretchen Ruben’s 4 tendencies; Spencer Johnson’s ‘Who moved my cheese’ (yes, it is as quirky as it sounds); Simon Sinek’s Golden Circle theory; the “futures cone”; Herzberg’s Two Factor Theory; and also the GROW coaching model. (I\u2019ll include some references to source material below).<\/p>\n
\n\tIt is fair to say I have progressed in my career faster since getting a coach. It was fantastic to have a professional confidante to talk things through with, and to have someone challenge me in ways I hadn\u2019t before. The tools she shared have helped me develop and learn and have equipped me with different ways to approach professional challenges.<\/p>\n
\n\tIt also gave me the space for some self-reflection, increased my self-awareness and self-esteem, and has had a dramatic impact on my confidence. I’ve come so far, I have even commenced the Pro IQ podcast series (new episode coming in the next few weeks!).<\/p>\n
\n\tAnd it is just the start of my professional growth, as I have now engaged with an incredible mentor to continue challenging and extending myself. It is safe to say that my career development journey will continue as we unpack areas to improve on.<\/p>\n
\n\tI have approached all of this with a growth-mindset, and the processes have only strengthened that mindset. Research uncovered that our mindset exists along a spectrum, from strong fixed mindset to a strong growth mindset. I would say I started with a mild growth mindset, but recently revisited this handy test* and now I\u2019m happy to report I have a strong growth mindset.<\/p>\n
\n\tFor those not familiar with this concept, a growth mindset views intelligence and talent as qualities that can be developed over time \u2013 whilst it won\u2019t make you Einstein, there are still variables in what we can all achieve. A growth mindset simply means people believe their intelligence and talents can be improved through effort and actions. It also recognises that setbacks are a necessary part of the learning process and allows people to \u2018bounce back\u2019 by increasing motivational effort; sees \u2018failings\u2019 as temporary and changeable. A growth mindset is crucial for learning, resilience, motivation, and performance.<\/p>\n
\n\tWith a growth mindset you are more likely to:<\/p>\n
\n\tSo, I continue my career development journey, embracing all the tools at my disposal, and encourage everyone, no matter where you are at, to consider a coach, a mentor, and embracing a growth mindset. You don’t know what you don\u2019t know, until someone challenges you!<\/p>\n
\n\t\t\tStephen Covey’s Circles of Influence & Concern: https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=tUQQbMGvD7w<\/a> & https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=1wptGvREOj8<\/a><\/p>\n \n\t\t\tStephen Covey’s Prioritisation Model: https:\/\/www.indeed.com\/career-advice\/career-development\/covey-time-management-matrix<\/a><\/p>\n \n\t\t\tGretchen Ruben’s 4 tendencies: https:\/\/www.sophiacolombo.com\/the-four-tendencies-by-gretchen-rubin-book-summary\/<\/a><\/p>\n \n\t\t\tSpencer Johnson’s ‘Who moved my cheese?”: https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=hlBD4vJsPzo<\/a><\/p>\n \n\t\t\tSimon Sinek’s Golden Circle Theory: https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=GaGsw1MFgk8<\/a><\/p>\n \n\t\t\tFutures Cone: https:\/\/samim.io\/p\/2021-10-31-futures-cone\/<\/a><\/p>\n \n\t\t\tHerzberg’s Two Factory Theory: https:\/\/www.simplypsychology.org\/herzbergs-two-factor-theory.html<\/a><\/p>\n \n\t\t\tGROW Coaching Model: https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=1fbooiSh_bAhttps:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=1fbooiSh_bA<\/a><\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n