Coaching and Closed Roads! – by Arnie Wohlgemut
“The storms of life can either make you better or bitter.”
Dr. D. K. Olukoya
This past winter I was travelling with some friends along the Lake Huron coast in terrible weather. The county where we were heading to, had issued a winter storm warning. We had already travelled 2 hours from home and being only a short distance away from our destination, we chose to continue. The plan was to meet other friends for dinner in his town on the Lake Huron coast.
As soon as we approached the coastal highway, we came across a road closed sign. The highway was closed by the police because of poor road conditions, and reduced visibility from the winter storm.
We needed to make a decision. Do we take the highway despite the danger or the risk of a traffic fine, an accident or worse and if so, will conditions change enough for us to travel back after dinner?
“You can be in the storm, but don’t let the storm get in you.”
Joel Osteen
Isn’t that a typical scenario in areas of everyday life also? We believe we are making progress only to be greeted with a “road closed” sign. Many times, our visibility is obstructed by the sting of failure.
In my career there have been many times when I was stubborn and pressed on past the obvious road closures. My stubbornness seldom was rewarded with the progress I was hoping for. Fortunately, there are experiences that we you can only learn in a storm.
“Knowing yourself, is often the key to an engaged work life. Remember to invest in yourself by leaving room for thought and contemplation.”
Marla Gottschalk
I have a circle of friends and experienced mentors who I have come to rely on to provide clarity and coaching advise when I find myself in these situations. They have taught me to slow down, reflect on the obstacles and evaluate the probability and risks of proceeding.
This is the essence of good coaching. A coach will not provide any answers, they will show you which roads are open and possible and it’s up to you to choose which one to drive down.
Do you have a coach, or even a mentor who will provide guidance in your journey?
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