How Coaching Helps in Times of Uncertainty
When our worlds are so abruptly disrupted, as is happening right now, the uncertainty can be unsettling. Taking a coaching approach can help in these times of uncertainty by creating a greater sense of calm and resilience.
Cylient CEO Dianna Anderson says: “This is really the time, I think, when coaching as a leadership style is essential.”
We need to confront our old assumptions and beliefs about what it means to be a leader. Many times, leaders’ first instincts are to come up with a solution to “fix” the situation and try to bring certainty back to our lives. Unfortunately, that’s just not an option right now because no one knows how our current situation is going to unfold.
How to Use Coaching to Help in Times of Uncertainty
What we can and need to do now is listen and use coaching approaches to provide support to those around us. Here are some ways that you can take a coaching approach to support others during these difficult times:
- Observe people and recognize when they’re stressed. People show their stress in many different ways. One person might become quiet, while another person could become short with others. Simply asking how they’re doing and listening to their response can be really valuable to them.
- Help others recognize their own concerns. Sometimes people can’t pinpoint exactly where their stress is coming from. Guide them, through questions, observations and stories, to help articulate what is concerning them.
- Empathize and show compassion for the challenges that people face.
- Encourage people to help each other out. In times like this, we need to take care of each other as best we can. While there are many problems that we cannot solve, there are also many ways that we can offer support and comfort to those who are struggling with the demands of these difficult times. Think creatively about how to address the new kinds of challenges we are all facing.
Take Care of Yourself
It is common for leaders to prioritize others over themselves; however, it’s important to take care of yourself during this time, too. By practicing some of these acts of self-care, you are better able to manage your own fears and concerns. Here are some ideas to consider:
- Take time for reflection. If you’re spending more time with family, or if you’re feeling overwhelmed by so many new demands, take some time out to tune into yourself. Sometimes simply taking a few minutes to journal on a question like, “What’s concerning me the most right now?” can help you to clear your mind and focus on what is most important right now.
- Talk with your family and friends. Even if you’re unable to meet them in person, take some time to call a friend to see how they’re doing. Catch up like you would at a normal happy hour.
- Take up meditation. There are some great apps to get you started—like Headspace or Mindfulness. You might be surprised with how ten minutes of peace can re-wire your brain.
- Find your own coach to talk with. It’s important to have a safe place where you can discuss your own concerns in an empathic and productive way.
Contact Cylient If We Can Be Helpful to You and Your Organization
Please feel free to contact us at Cylient if we can be helpful in any way. We want to support you and your organization to take a coaching approach to navigating these difficult times. As odd as it may sound, it can be easier for us to learn new skills and approaches in times of change—often, because we have to. Taking a coaching approach to day-to-day conversations during this unprecedented time of upheaval may be one of the greatest gifts that you can give yourself and those you care for. Let us help you to do that. You can reach us at info@cylient.com or call 1-877-788-6465.
