Desiree E.

Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither is any successful relationship. It takes time for people to unravel their thoughts, identify their goals, and implement changes. As a coach, your patience is key. By practicing mindfulness, you can develop a deeper understanding of your emotions and reactions, allowing you to remain calm and centered even when faced with challenges or setbacks. This inner peace translates into patience with your clients, giving them the space and time to explore their journey without feeling rushed or pressured.

By cultivating a non-judgmental presence, you create a safe space where others feel comfortable opening up and exploring their thoughts and feelings without fear of shame or guilt. This sense of safety allows for deeper connection and trust, fostering a more meaningful and impactful coaching relationship. When others feel truly heard and understood, they are more likely to engage fully in the coaching process, leading to greater self-awareness, personal growth, and lasting change.

Reflection is not about dwelling on the past but rather learning from it. I encourage you to reflect on their past experiences: What worked well in terms of balancing work and life? What didn't? What lessons can they carry forward? You can gain valuable insights into your needs and preferences by identifying past successes and challenges. This self-awareness can guide you in crafting a vision of work-life balance that aligns with your values and aspirations. The past is a valuable resource for shaping a more fulfilling future.

In the Navy we had a saying, "Semper Gumby" - always flexible. It's about bending without breaking, adjusting your schedule, priorities, and expectations as needed. Encourage your client to embrace flexibility in their work and personal lives. This might mean exploring flexible work arrangements, setting boundaries to protect personal time, or simply learning to say "no" to commitments that don't align with their priorities. By embracing a flexible mindset, your client can create a work-life balance that works for them, allowing them to thrive in all aspects of their life.

To help your client envision their ideal scenario, start by exploring what truly matters to them. What activities energize them? What drains their energy? What are their non-negotiables in both their personal and professional lives? Once you've identified their priorities, encourage them to consider delegation. Many tasks can be entrusted to others, freeing valuable time for activities that truly matter. This not only prevents burnout but also empowers others to learn and grow. Remember, work-life balance is an ongoing journey, not a destination. By focusing on priorities and embracing delegation, your client can create a sustainable and fulfilling lifestyle that aligns with their values and goals.

One powerful technique involves cultivating positivity through language. Instead of "should" or "have to," encourage them to say "get to." This simple shift reframes tasks as opportunities. If they say, "I have to go to work," guide them towards "I get to use my skills and contribute." By emphasizing the privilege and positive aspects, we empower them to reclaim their agency and find gratitude amidst stress. This subtle shift repeated consistently, can significantly impact their outlook, fostering a more positive mindset and reducing burnout.