Preparation and NEW habits for insightful and fulfilling sessions

Nov 3, 2023 | Coach’s Corner

As I reflect on the 17 titles I read in 2024, a few themes emerge that encapsulate my journey of growth this year. Many of these books encouraged me to expand my understanding of coaching maturity—to examine which of my own perspectives were being tested and to build the courage to thoughtfully challenge others’ thinking.

Another significant focus was coaching supervision, where I explored frameworks, techniques, and insights that could enrich the quality of my work with colleagues. These readings provided inspiration for elevating the reflective spaces I enable to others.

Finally, there were also books that introduced new tools, techniques, and approaches. These resources sparked creativity, encouraging me to consider how they might be applied in unique and impactful ways in my coaching and supervision practice.

I’ve always enjoyed the experience of holding a book in my hands, underlining what stands out to me, using different colors. This process helps me reflect on what I’ve read and revisit the ideas that resonate most. I was asked by several colleagues to share what I read and some recommendations, so for each book, I took time to review what I’ve highlighted, allowing me to capture and share the key insights that inspire, challenge, or shape my thinking.
Each book on this list contributed and made 2024 – a year of learning.  I’m excited to share these reflections  while looking forward to the plans I’m already setting for 2025 – which could be found in the bottom of this list. 🙂

How would you rate the level of your energy when you enter your training or coaching sessions? Do you always feel ready and fully present? 

I wrote this article for the WeLLBE project in order to explore more the ways of preparation and activities we practice before our sessions.

In her book “Engaged”, author Amy Brann from Synaptic Potential emphasizes the importance of introducing and nurturing NEW habits into our daily life. And she also says there is nothing “new” there, we somehow know what we should do some things, but forget or put them aside.

This short acronym can be a fast reminder of how we take care of ourselves, so let’s what it stands for:

Nutrition
Think of your eating habits. As Amy Brann says in the book: Fuel yourself well. Think of what gives you energy and prepare those meals. Also, if you are having the training or coaching sessions live it would be great if you have some fruits around.

Exercise
Most of us know that exercise is good for the body and mind, but somehow it does not have a proper place on our priority list. Create short exercise rituals before entering the session – just a little bit of stretching can make you more present and concentrated.

And, the W stands for – Water. Make sure you drink enough water and that you always have a bottle around.

Maybe we can add a letter in the above-mentioned acronym and create NEWS?

Because, is an additional thing to have in mind for sure, and also not something totally fresh as an idea, but important to mention – be mindful about your Sleep. The night before your session make sure you turn off all distractions and provide enough hours of quality sleep so you are fresh and fully committed to your participants/coachees.

And after you read your NEWS :), there are just several more questions to ask yourself before starting our session:

Do you know who your trainees/coachees are?

Are there any technical/logistical preparations needed (regarding the online tool you use or the room if it is a live session?)

Have you prepared all the needed materials? When we answer all these questions – we should be ready for our session.

How do you take care of yourself and prepare for your sessions?

Explore further…

 

Craft Your Wings and Embrace the Present

Craft Your Wings and Embrace the Present

What holds you back from taking that first step? Why not start acting? Sometimes, coaching sessions lead to profound insights about freedom and the genuine desire to initiate change. I recall a fantastic poem by the Serbian writer Miroslav Antic, a part of his book...