Communication
Connection During Isolation
A recurring theme for the past few weeks is that we humans are wired for connection. The neuroscience is clear. We need each other. We need to be in connection. In times of “social distancing”, this need is crying out to us. Some of my coaching colleagues are wishing for a different description—Physical Distancing—which has…
Read MoreThe Three R’s for Uncertain Times: Resilience, Rational Thinking, Responsiveness
As we navigate these uncertain times, we are faced with situations, circumstances, emotions, and decisions that are completely new and without a clear path forward. The path unfolds on a daily, if not hourly basis. Who is better equipped to lead during these uncertain times than coach leaders? Coach leaders have the confidence and courage…
Read MoreLet’s Talk JOY
In continuing our focus on JOY – here are a few more possibilities for your consideration, and coming from my own book on Joy, first expressed over 37 years ago. From the Three Hours to One Day section: …sleep late and stay in PJs all day long…address Christmas cards with notes to far away friends…bake…
Read MoreMeasuring Relationships
How do we measure our life? Darius Foroux, author and podcaster writes specifically about how we can live a life that matters. He has studied how the most successful thinkers of our time measure their lives. What we learn might just be surprising and enlightening. People who are considered successful in the eye of society…
Read MoreCoaching Language for the Goal-Setting Process
In the ezine this month, Ode to October, we spoke about how to keep October from being the “overwhelming” month. Now, let’s focus on one thing that happens in October – goal-setting. Most districts with whom we work come with a performance or appraisal process that includes a goal-setting component. Originating from a growth mindset,…
Read MoreCommunication and Relationships: Micromoves
In Harvard Business Review, Kerry Gibson and Beth Schinoff, professors at Babson and Boston College offer the concept of “micromoves.” A micromove is a series of actions or behaviors that seem inconsequential in the moment but affect how we relate to one another. Micromoves are like dance steps. You take a step and your colleague…
Read MoreCommunication Reflections Continued
Earlier this month a few strategies were shared to impact your words in written communication. Tell the truth – be honest and clear, not to mislead. Get to the point – bottom line or essence of your message. Sensitive and valuing people’s time. Just ask! First rule of being a coach. Just ask for what…
Read MoreCommunication: What You Know and How to Impact with Your Words
We are all writers today. We fling out words into the universe through text, email, Facebook and more. Even people who hate to write realize they have to do it, because the reality is you will need to write a note of thanks, send a text to your new teacher, respond to your boss or…
Read MoreClear is Kind – Unclear is Unkind
A second concept Brené Brown shares in her Dare to Lead book is the notion of “clear is kind – unclear is unkind”. This one resonated deeply with me as I see the effect of lack of clarity and uncertainty in our work on a regular and consistent basis. Let’s see what Brené has to…
Read MoreConnecting to Your Client
This month we’re centered on three important behaviors of a coach as she meets with her client in a coaching conversation, virtually or in person. Earlier, we considered important ways for a coach to prepare for a coaching conversation. Today, let’s zoom in on an important way to be in the coaching conversation. It begins…
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