Many moons ago, I embarked on a “Moonwalk Marathon” for charity that taught me the importance of being my own coach. As a trained and experienced coach, I am of course a believer in the power of coaching to help people achieve their goals and navigate challenges more successfully. But what do you do when you don’t have access to a coach?
My Moonwalk Marathon Experience
As thousands gathered in Central London, the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation, music, and energetic warm-up routines. It started off fun but for me at least, the experience wasn’t as enjoyable as I’d have hoped.
I’d prepared by putting the training miles in, so I embarked enthusiastically on my 26.2-mile journey. I was going it alone, even though surrounded by thousands of people. The absence of a companion to share the journey, motivate, and serve as a cheerleader made the walk an unexpectedly challenging and lonely endeavour for me. Amid exhaustion and severe blisters, I realised the only thing keeping me moving forward was the coach within me.
The Importance of Self-Coaching
Whilst external support can be extremely valuable, the reality is that the only constant in your life is you. To consistently be the best version of yourself, especially in the face of adversity, self-coaching is essential. It can not only empower you but will also support positive decision-making, self-confidence, and self-belief.
Key Questions for Effective Self-Coaching
Effective self-coaching may involve contemplating the big picture, asking yourself questions like:
- What am I good at?
- What knowledge, skills, or behaviours do I want to improve?
- What matters most to me in work and life?
- What are my personal and work goals?
- What do I want to achieve personally and professionally?
In day-to-day challenges, self-coaching can help you reflect on:
- How can I best solve this problem?
- What steps do I need to take to achieve this goal?
- How can I draw on my strengths in this situation?
- What do I need from myself today?
- How can I change my thinking to see things more positively?
- If I want new results, how should I think and behave?
Embracing the Self-Coaching Mindset
Being your own coach requires regularly evaluating your actions, acknowledging your successes, and planning for improvement. Whether reflecting on your role in a project or assessing a crucial conversation with your boss, this mindset shift can transform what and how much you achieve.
As Henry Ford wisely said;
“Whether you think you can, or think you can’t – you’re right.”
Becoming your own cheerleader and coach can make all the difference.
Celebrate your victories, learn from your setbacks, and use each experience as an opportunity for growth.
I did complete the Moonwalk Marathon, and when I received my medal at the finish line after a gruelling 9 hours, it was with a huge sense of achievement alongside the physical exhaustion. The journey highlighted to me the importance of mindset and how that can often be the difference between giving up and achieving your goals.
Tips to Enhance Your Self-Coaching Journey
Recognising the power of self-coaching can be life changing. Here are some tips to embrace and enhance your own self-coaching journey:
- Set Clear Goals: Define both short-term and long-term goals, providing direction and purpose to your actions.
- Practice Positive Affirmations: Cultivate a positive mindset by affirming your capabilities and reinforcing belief in your own potential.
- Learn from Challenges: Instead of viewing challenges as setbacks, try to see them as opportunities for growth and learning.
- Celebrate Achievements: Acknowledge and celebrate your successes, no matter how small. It will build your confidence and motivation.
- Seek Feedback: Use constructive feedback from yourself and others, it’s an invaluable tool for continuous improvement.
- Adaptability: Embrace change and be open to adjusting your strategies when faced with new circumstances.
- Prioritise Self-Care: Ensure adequate rest, nutrition, and hydration to maintain physical and mental well-being.
By being your own coach, you’ll take charge of life’s marathon challenges, ensuring you not only cross that finish line but you also savour the sense of accomplishment that comes with each step.
Are you ready to become your own coach?
Want to know more?
Sarah Harvey is Founding Director of Savvy Conversations Ltd and author of the highly acclaimed book Savvy Conversations: A practical framework for effective workplace relationships.
Website: https://savvyconversations.co.uk
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/savvysarah
Instagram: savvysarah
