Coach’s Corner: John’s Journal

As a coach who works with highly driven, high-profile individuals and executives, I focus on mindset and use journaling to uncover the beliefs that profoundly influence results in all aspects of their lives. I provide journaling prompts, which launch them into a deeper journey of self-discovery and learning. The data I extract from the journals is extraordinarily valuable and allows me to quickly and effectively use such self-reflection to guide the client toward a more empowered mindset. Below is another example of this approach.

A CEO of an online learning organization wrote this journal shortly after receiving notice of resignation from his COO. I had been coaching this client for well over a year.

“It’s funny, the main thing that I keep saying to myself to get back on track is that I cannot control how others think and feel; I only can control how I think and feel. Too often in these situations I drive myself crazy wondering if other people are going to be considerate, scared, or uneasy. Those thoughts not only are unhelpful, but are self-fulfilling because you project uneasiness in yourself, and it leads to similar outcomes.

There is a lot of planning involved in the next few days, and the most important thing for me to do is prioritize. My top three objectives are job descriptions, marketing, and development.”

Imagine yourself as this client’s coach. How would you respond to his journal with the goal to move the coaching process forward? Use the questions below to guide your thoughts, and write your responses in the comment box below.

What stands out about this journal?

What needs to be addressed?

What is the client struggling with?

What can you say to help the client continue to move forward even in the face of the work challenges that he currently is confronting?

Hear more from Kim by registering for her free webcast, Coaching High-Potential Leaders, on Thursday, May 30.