This passage invites us to remember many things, one of which is the posture of thankfulness and gratitude with the word of Christ dwelling in us. (Additional depth is available in the surrounding verses.) When Christ’s word dwells within us, our lives can be transformed beyond our ability. This touches even the postures of thankfulness and gratitude; two words complement and reflect one another.

In coaching, these elements can be foundational in various ways, including communicating effectively. ICF core competency #6 (1-4): “Listening actively" rooted in gratitude and thankfulness allows each session to be a gift. A coach can remain in partnership/agreement with what the client brings and movement forward as a valued gift rather than a possible distraction.

As coaches, we understand that the client's culture and perspectives significantly influence their process. Joining this process is the most efficient way to achieve lasting transformation. Using tools that respect and evoke client awareness within their cultural context is valuable in a cross-cultural world.  

As we focus on ICF Competency 7 (Evoking Awareness #7-6 through 7-11), 

ICF definition:

 "7. Evokes Awareness ‘Definition: Facilitates client insight and learning by using tools and techniques such as powerful questioning, silence, metaphor, or analogy.’"

Here are two tools to kick off this discussion:

“Jesus, how am I significant to you?”

This question touched both a deep desire and a deep fear in my life. Through this coaching session, I realized that many of my actions emerged from a desire for significance. Now, I was taking this deep desire to Jesus as I wondered what He would say.

Questions are not just tools, they are keys that can unlock transformative conversations, connections, and opportunities. They have the power to invite clients to grow in awareness and development, and as a coach, you hold these keys in partnership with clients.

As coaches, our effectiveness hinges on our ability to listen attentively. However, staying fully present and focused in conversations has become increasingly challenging in today's fast-paced and uncertain world. The constant noise of thoughts, external pressures, and rapid changes can overwhelm our minds, leading to cognitive overload and diminished listening capabilities.

Working with the intentions (motives or desires) of the heart of a believer is a very sacred place. The agent at work here is the Word: "For the Word of God is… quick to discern the thoughts and intents of the heart.” Hebrews 4:12

In his Iceberg Model of Competencies, Harvard psychologist McClelland placed motives at the bottom of the iceberg, considering them the most hidden component.

Coaching is a way to come alongside, encourage, and help people! When we see someone who needs assistance, it is servant nature, a natural response to help. As we address the ICF competencies one by one over the next few months, we begin with the ethical practice of coaching, a cornerstone of our profession guided by the ICF Code of Ethics. 

Coaching is a world of wonder and transformation, excitement overall, yet a journey of steps forward, creating infinite possibilities for change. A whole new world, as some would say!

What elements impact the atmosphere of a coaching session and can free a coach to ask "powerful questions?"

I remember one of my coaching sessions with a client a while ago. She was a team leader in an organization, and they were working on a crucial summer project. At our first session, she seemed visibly overwhelmed and stressed. She started to share:

As you’re defining your resolutions for the year, what is a top priority for your growth as a coach?

Growing in my adaptability as a coach is my number one for this year. Over the years I have seen how adapting to my clients' personality, energy, communication style, and cultural values has made a significant difference in the outcome of our coaching relationship. It's a muscle that needs to be continuously trained.

Reflecting on this year, I'm filled with gratitude as I continue to nurture my habit of paying attention or ‘wondering’. I marvel at God's creation during my walks, pondering His love and kindness, and contemplate the uniqueness of each person I journey with.

Photo credit: suzanne-d-williams-VMKBFR6r_jg-unsplash

As a new coach I dreaded being observed by my trainer as I coached my peer. I’d worry ahead of time about the mistakes I’d make in technique, or that I’d be so anxious I wouldn’t be able to frame an open question!

In this article you will find two great opportunities for you to continue to sharpen your coaching skills.