(ThyBlackMan.com) I kind of stumbled into coaching. It seems to happen that way with many things in life that end up purposeful. I think it’s divine orchestration. Twelve years ago, when the Random House edition of my self-published book Rich Minds Rich Rewards came out, I found myself being interviewed weekly on a local television station and a syndicated radio show. I would offer advice and even take audience questions, and the producers of these shows wanted to call me a “life coach.”
“I’m not a life coach,” I protested. “I don’t have any clients”
They ignored my protests, and the moniker “life coach” stuck. To be in integrity with the title, I thought I should at least do a little research to find out what life coaching was exactly. What I discovered was that it is the one-on-one manifestation of what I was already writing and speaking about, but more than that, it was a powerful way of connecting and asking questions that empowers people to have breakthroughs, reach goals faster, boost confidence and productivity, and grow into a more authentic, happier version of
themselves. I soon became trained and certified, and began coaching professionals from all over the US and around the world. Coaching has made me a better writer and speaker, as I have had the privilege of helping people from all walks of life navigate and conquer some of life’s biggest challenges.
It’s one of the reasons I decided to host a “Power of Coaching” call on Friday afternoon. And I want to share with you a few of the powerful questions I asked of the 250 people who signed up for the free class that promoted our upcoming Coach Training Intensive. Perhaps these questions can help you get some answers right now, for a dilemma you face.
Think of a challenge you face right now – whether at work or in your business, in a relationship or your finances, or maybe even related to your goal to be healthier or lose weight. Got a challenge in mind? Good. Now ask yourself these three questions:
1. What opportunity does this challenge present?
No matter what the challenge, there is an opportunity within it. Your job is to uncover that opportunity and maximize it. Rather than complain, find the gift in your challenge.
2. What message is being offered to you in this situation?
Often, a similar theme runs through multiple situations in our lives. Procrastination is sabotaging your success at work and it’s causing arguments with your spouse as you run late all the time. Your fear of rejection keeps you from seeking new and exciting opportunities, and also keeps you from reaching out to new friends and making needed connections. Notice the messages your situation is sending you – and take heed.
3. If God were to give you some advice, what do you think He’d say to you?
Your intuition is divine intelligence. Don’t ignore it. By asking yourself this obvious question, you may realize the answer you need is closer than you think!
My challenge to you this week:
Take a coaching approach to solving your current challenge. Pause to ask yourself the right questions. If you know someone with a challenge, invite them to answer these questions, too.