Words like improvisation and jazz are often intertwined in our minds.
You probably had the opportunity to read something about that topic before. In the next lines, I’ll share my two cents on it from a personal perspective and fresh insights.
Last night, I found myself at a local musicians’ gig in one of my favorite bars. Most of them I have known for a long time. While I don’t go out so often, some names are simply a guarantee for a good time. (Aaaand, it was perhaps not the wisest choice, considering I had just undergone a medical intervention, and the sutures from the operation have not yet been removed 😊).
One of them stood out by switching between two different instruments. His performance was truly unique – he seemed to be both present and perhaps somewhere else. Despite his closed eyes, you could unmistakably feel his full presence in the moment, suggesting that he was performing for his personal fulfillment. I couldn’t help but admire that expression of freedom and ability to be with yourself, and at the same time, through the improvisation, effortlessly talking to others on the stage through the music, creating a fantastic connection that words couldn’t describe.
This experience became the inspiration for my morning reflection. It made me think of those moments when, after a coaching session, I could genuinely tell myself,
“You were completely present, and you improvised flawlessly, letting go of all potentially prepared and learned questions, tools, and techniques.”
So, why did this prompt my reflection?
These abilities, or perhaps better call them superpowers that blend presence and improvisation, along with the moments I encounter in my professional journey, serve as encouraging indicators that I’m advancing on my coaching path. 🙂
And I’d like to conclude this post with a few thought-provoking questions for anyone who reads this:
- What is it that allows us to tap into the power of improvisation?
- As professionals in any area, how can we cultivate the ability to improvise AND stay fully present most of the time?
- Are there lessons we can draw from musicians or professionals in other fields?
As a closing thought, I’ve contemplated a potential experiment for working with some clients: coaching with my eyes closed :), accompanied by a heartfelt intention to become ‘that name’ which adds value to someone’s coaching experience as these guys ensured my great experience last evening.
