Self-compassion for coaches and coaching executives
Self-compassion is incredibly important to (continue to) coach professionally. Why really and how do you do it? As coaches, we enjoy supporting others in their development, overcoming their obstacles and achieving their goals. It is a wonderful profession. In addition, above all, it can be challenging!
You listen to the stories of others, are involved in their joys and sorrows, listen actively and are allowed to manage yourself in the meantime. In that involvement with others something may also happen to you as a coach or coaching executive, for example if you recognize yourself in what the coachee shares with you.
As a coach, besides being a professional, you are above all human, including our own challenges and development points.
With over 20 years of experience in coaching and training, we are all too aware of it. It is in those moments that we may have self-compassion; the ability to be kind and understanding to ourselves. Accepting yourself as a coach for who you are and what you have to offer. Especially in those moments when our minds tell us otherwise.
In this short article, we want to share with you some valuable lessons in this area.
By connecting with your self-compassion, you not only create a safe and open-minded space for others, you also ensure that you remain resilient and take good care of yourself. It enables you to be truly present for the people you guide and support.
Self-compassion 101:so howdo you do it?
Awareness: Be aware of your internal dialogue and notice when self-criticism or judgment occurs. Bring attention to your thoughts and feelings without getting caught up in them.
Self-acceptance: Acknowledge your own “being human” and accept who you are. Give yourself permission to make mistakes and learn from them, just as your coachees do.
Self-care: Develop a self-care routine that suits you, for example, meditation, journaling, exercise or spending time in nature. Take good care of your physical, mental and emotional well-being.
Compassionate language: “The language we speak is the house we live in”. Have an inner conversation with yourself in kindness and understanding. Replace self-criticism with self-compassionate language and approach yourself as you would approach a good friend.
Reflection and supervision: Use reflection and supervision to continue to develop yourself as a coach. Discuss challenges, successes and learning moments with a supervisor or fellow coach to gain new perspectives and grow.
Self-compassion is essential in coaching, for your coachee or employee as well as for you. By actively applying self-compassion, you not only strengthen your ability to show empathy and understanding, you also take care of your own well-being. It enables you to be fully there for your coachees or employees.
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