Coaching Through Covid
Countries around the world are at various stages in the grief cycle. Those most advanced in the COVID-19 cycle have progressed beyond the initial shock stage and are heading towards acceptance as the threat appears to be coming under control. Less advanced countries are in the denial and bargaining stage as they exert their right to return to work no matter what the consequences. At stake is the survival of the human race. Is it worth playing with lives for the sake of a return to ‘normalcy’?
Yes, we all need to regain security and certainty lest our mental mindset suffers too greatly. Basic needs for food on the table and a roof over our heads are top of mind. For those still in work, these necessities are not a consideration but their safety might be, especially if they are frontline workers in direct contact with patients.
On a hugely positive note, people in the coaching arena have very quickly become accepting of the use of technology, with people en-masse the world over using platforms like Zoom, Google meet-ups, Facetime and Whatsapp video calling to connect with each other.
Many reports are suggesting that meetings held over video call (now that people are getting better at using them) are more productive and as such the working hours of the individual returning more value to them and to the business. What this means for us coaches is that business people and individuals can therefore be coached from anywhere by coaches from anywhere so long as both have wifi connection.
This has, of course, been the case for years but all of a sudden it’s accepted. If a coach is working with a team of 20 middle managers in a business they no longer have to book a room and go to them. There’s an acceptance that video chat is just as good. It has some down sides to face to face as you can’t pick up on so much physically but then upsides too as people are more relaxed and open. It’s like we’ve pressed fast forward without the ability to rewind and this is a long term positive for coaches.
In addition, unfortunately not all people have retained their jobs and are now having to seek food and home security through government means if possible, or charitable donations if not. Graciously, humanity has risen to the occasion and people are supporting each other in every way possible.
What the current situation means is that, as we navigate the transition from where we were to where we are going to be, the seeming chaos may become overwhelming for some and they may need psychological support. However, they may not turn to a psychologist or counsellor. Instead, they are more likely to turn to a trusted friend to help them ease the burden. This friend may be you.
Are you up to the task? Do you have to skills to support others through this crisis – to listen reflectively and non-judgmentally, and hold the space for self-awareness and insight to grow – so that they may find their own solutions with your help?
This is what a qualified coach does – asks the powerful questions so that clients go deeper and draw on their resilience reserves to support them bridge the gap until they reach the other side. This is what you could do, when you learn how to become a coach.
Now is the time to use the gift that you have been given – time at home to think, reflect, and carve out a path for yourself to personally transition to a much stronger mental mindset with which to either return to your career or develop another one.
To find out more about how you can become a qualified coach, visit our website and download the course guide www.professionalcoachtraining.com.au
