Do you know my biggest blind spot as coach?
That I simply assume that everyone knows what Integral Coaching is.
Last week I had an interview to get into the coaching pool of a larger German organization. They were really interested to explore my integral approach. And I fell exactly into that assumption trap of mine. And I’m glad I did. It showed me that I’m hanging out slightly too much in my own professional bubble. That I’m not always speaking my consumer’s language. That I’m going so deep in my explanations of what I’m doing that people feel slightly overwhelmed.
So, now what?
Let me try to explain what INTEGRAL COACHING is, in a simplified way, so that everybody can understand – and make an informed choice about working with me or not ;)
And for everyone reading this: Please send me your feedback! Do you understand what Integral Coaching is? What information might be lacking? Just shoot!
Let me start with my definition of Coaching
“As coach I’m supporting a person to build and strengthen competencies to better face the circumstances of their personal and professional life.”
What is now Integral Coaching
Integral means “inclusive of everything”, “whole”. This means that I’m viewing my coachees as whole human beings.
This involves getting to know their personal, relational and professional journeys. And also getting to know their thoughts (Head), their emotions (Heart) and their connection to their body (Gut/Intuition).
Why? Because it’s all interconnected. Our head, heart and gut/intuition are like complementary organs of perception that help us make sense of our environment and relationships.
The better we are connected with all 3 of them in a balanced way, the easier it is to draw on their strengths. This “balance of powers” enables us to make sound decisions, reach our goals, overcome our challenges and get unstuck in a more effective, considerate and sustainable way. At work and at home.
In a nutshell
As Integral Coach I’m coaching the person - and not the problem.
Reflection question
How about yourself? Did you have similar blind spot revealing moments? And how did you deal with it?
Wishing you a weekend full of spring or autumn vibes. Depending on where you are :)
Warmly, Viviane
#selfleadership #selfawareness #leavingfootprints #integralcoaching