4 Lessons I learned from a Decade of Coaching and Training Others
Hello there.
I have worn many hats in my professional journey, but the most fulfilling role I’ve embraced over the past decade has been that of a coach and trainer. Self-taught and passionate, I hold an unwavering belief that each of us possesses a unique potential, and a distinct role to play in this world. However, many struggle to recognize this truth within themselves. My mission, thus, is to bring this perspective to the forefront of our interactions. After all, our primary learning stage lies within our workplace, where we interact with colleagues and test our performance in our career. Unfortunately, amid the hustle and bustle, we often neglect the vital practice of self-reflection, missing out on the invaluable learning opportunities our professional lives present.
Over the years, coaching and training others have taught me many invaluable lessons. Here, I want to share four key points that have shaped my journey and philosophy as a coach.
1. Humility, Kindness, and Compassion
In the vast cross-sections of our lives, every person we meet is unique, with their own narratives and perspectives. Recognising this has humbled me and instilled a deep sense of kindness and compassion. Life is larger than any single moment, and if we have the option to choose kindness in these intersections, why wouldn’t we?
2. The Power of Being Heard
As a coach, I’ve realised that it’s not always about providing solutions or answers. Sometimes, people merely want to be heard, to know that they matter. During my training sessions, I always remind my participants, “You are important!”, “Everyone is important”, “I am important”. It’s the emotional validation, the sense of being cared for, listened to, and supported that often matters more than a direct solution. These emotional needs are the bedrock of human interaction and integral to every relationship.
3. Seeking Inspiration and Meaning
In our quest for continuous growth, we are perpetually seeking inspiration and new meanings in life. That’s why it is so liberating for me to provide alternative approaches, to unveil various options for my clients. Allowing ourselves to choose from these myriad paths can spark creative energy, inspiring courage to try new things and experience the world in novel ways. Injecting fun into the learning process is one of my main tenets, as I believe that growth can be enjoyable if we let it be. Inspiration, at its core, means permitting ourselves to live creatively.
4. The Power of Letting Go and Restarting
One of the most potent lessons I’ve learned from coaching is the transformative power of letting go and starting anew. It’s a sight to behold when individuals reclaim their control, stepping into the driver’s seat instead of being mere passengers. This shift lets life bring them an abundance of surprises and fulfils their deepest desires. Coaching, in essence, is a healing process, a journey that allows us to learn from our past, shed our old selves, embrace the present, and create our future.
Many carry preconceived notions about coaching, but if there’s one powerful outcome I’d like to emphasize, it’s healing. Coaching enables us to heal, learn, and grow. It provides us with a safe space to acknowledge our feelings, challenge our perspectives, and realize our potentials. And if this piece resonates with you, I invite you to explore this transformative journey with me.
Interested in discovering more about yourself? Feel like you’re ready for a change but not sure where to start? I’m here to help. Drop me an email at [pennyleong@totalenrichmentadvisory.com], and let’s begin this journey towards healing and growth, together.
Let’s embark on this transformative journey together.
