“Luck is when preparation meets opportunity”
You may have heard this quote, apparently, it’s from Roman philosopher Seneca,
Maybe luck does exist in its own right; I rather hope so actually. The point though is that whilst you can’t predict exactly when opportunities will arise in life, there’s no doubt you are more likely to make the most of them with a bit of preparation, to increase the fertility of the soil if you will. And I see coaching as part of that preparation.
Imagine for example that you’re seeking to progress at work but always seem to be overlooked. When opportunities come along you tend not to put yourself forward, you might credit others as more qualified, tell yourself your happier and safer as you are, but become frustrated as others move up. Coaching can help you understand the possible beliefs behind these behaviors, perhaps you believe you are not clever, experienced, likeable enough. Maybe you have traits of perfectionism which mean you can never satisfy your own standards, or a belief that only arrogant people talk about their talents. A coach can help you get clear on your own talents, offer you alternative ways of telling these stories about yourself and help you develop different patterns of thinking, so that next time you are perfectly positioned to take that opportunity with confidence and clarity about your value and contribution.
Another example might be a friend, boss or relative who repeatedly says or does something that causes you hurt. Each time the opportunity arises for you to address the issue, you tell yourself it’s not so bad, that maybe it’s you. You let it go but remain hurt and a little more diminished each time. Coaching will help you look at how you value yourself and your needs compared to others. You might work together with tools to help you set appropriate boundaries and hold difficult conversations without suffering a guilt hangover.
Perhaps you dream of writing a book, buying your perfect home, starting a business, or finding a life partner but you feel stuck. A good coach will help you dig into the reasons you’re not moving forward, uncover the blocks and help you work to move through them. Coaching isn’t always easy though. Sometimes you discover uncomfortable things. Sometimes the habits and beliefs we hold onto most strongly (because they keep us safe) are the things preventing us moving forward. A good coach will ask careful questions, listen devotedly, challenge you when you need it but be your greatest cheerleader when shifts occur.
It is true that nothing good ever comes easy, but the point at which you might consider working with a coach is when the frustration and pain of staying stuck, outweighs the discomfort of addressing what’s in your way.
If any of this resonates, I would love to help. If you are intrigued and would like to know more, why not book a discovery call with me? Let’s see if we can make you a little luckier!
