A Vision for a Better World Pt. 4
Change Starts Within
But the Lord God called to the man, “Where are you?” He answered, “I heard you in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked; so I hid.” And he said, “Who told you that you were naked? Have you eaten from the tree that I commanded you not to eat from?” The man said, “The woman you put here with me—she gave me some fruit from the tree, and I ate it.”
Genesis 3:9-12 NIV
On my website, you will find our brand's vision captured in the following statement: We imagine a world transformed by people who have been transformed. Yes, this statement reveals our mission, but more importantly, it reveals our method. We believe that to transform the world, you must transform the people in it.
But how do we bring about this transformation? Through the power of coaching.
This month's writing will delve into the essence of coaching and its transformative impact. We will explore how coaching empowers individuals, equipping them with the tools necessary to reach their highest potential. This empowerment catalyzes change, not only in their lives but also in the broader world.
So, first things first. What is coaching? Since this term has become increasingly popular over the last few years, let me offer a working definition to ensure we are all on the same page.
Coaching is leveraging the power of inquiry to produce discovery, moving people from where they are to where they need to be.
Think of a stagecoach.
The word "coach" in this context is derived from the Hungarian word "kocsi," which means "wagon" or "carriage." Stagecoaches were horse-drawn vehicles used for transporting passengers and goods over long distances, following a regular schedule along a specific route. They were prominent from the 17th to the 19th centuries before the advent of the railway and motor vehicles.
Coaching, like a stagecoach, is a vehicle of transportation, except the destination is transformation.
But how does it work? Let's examine the first coaching conversation found in Genesis 3.
(Even if you don't ascribe to the Christian faith, indulge me.)
Genesis 3 chronicles what is known (in theological terms) as the fall of man. The first humans, Adam and Eve, choose to manage their free will irresponsibly by disobeying God's only order not to eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. After doing so, shame set in, causing them to hide from God. When He (God) arrives on the scene, He gives us a masterclass in coaching as He leverages the power of inquiry to produce discovery. He asks three questions that I want to examine to illustrate the transformational power of coaching. These questions and the process of self-reflection they initiate are akin to a coaching session where the coach guides the coachee toward self-awareness and accountability.
Let’s take a look.
Question 1: Where Are You?
This simple question prompted Adam to reflect on the situation and his actions. Similarly, in coaching, asking open-ended questions helps people become aware of their current state and the underlying reasons for their actions.
A coach might ask, "How do you feel about your current situation?" or "What has brought you to this point?"
Question 2: Who Told You That You Were Naked?
This question leads Adam to think about the source of his newfound awareness and guilt. In coaching, questions that encourage reflection on the origins of beliefs and behaviors can lead to deeper self-discovery.
A coach might ask, "Where do these feelings come from?" or "What experiences have shaped your perspective?"
Question 3: Have You Eaten From The Tree That I Commanded You Not To Eat From?
This question addresses the specific action that led to Adam's current state. In coaching, pinpointing specific actions and their impacts helps individuals understand the consequences of their choices.
A coach might ask, "What specific actions have led to your current situation?" or "What decisions have you made that you now question?"
As a Christian who believes that God knows everything (omniscient), I find His choice to deploy questioning especially intriguing. Why would He ask a series of questions He already had the answers to unless the questions weren't about what He needed to know but what Adam needed to know? What if God wasn't seeking information but guiding Adam toward self-awareness and accountability?
In coaching, the power lies not in providing answers (often tempting) but in facilitating a journey of self-discovery, empowering individuals to take ownership of their growth and transformation, and reinforcing that change starts within. The coach acts as a guide, using their expertise to ask the right questions and provide support, but ultimately, the coachee is the one who drives the process and makes the decisions.
Coaching is a powerful tool that fosters self-awareness, accountability, and personal growth. It equips individuals to become the best versions of themselves, leading to profound changes in their families, workplaces, and communities. This ripple effect ultimately contributes to a better world, a world transformed by people who have been transformed.
Become The Person You Were Always Meant To Be
Did you find inspiration in what you read? Imagine what you could achieve with personalized coaching tailored to your unique journey. Visit www.seandreher.com/coaching to learn more about our coaching services and how they can help you unlock your potential, overcome obstacles, and achieve your goals. Whether you're looking to enhance your professional skills or find greater fulfillment in your personal life, our coaching programs are designed to support and empower you every step of the way.
Are you ready to become the person you were always meant to be?
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This is so good!