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Recently I asked coaches in the Wellcoaches community to submit a list of 10 ways in which they want to thrive. Diane is dealing with some challenging health issues and asked me for a series of coaching sessions designed to improve her health and life satisfaction.
Diane’s Motivation
In our first coaching session, Diane created a forward-looking statement to describe her motivation for moving toward wellness: “To be in a state of health with sufficient energy and vitality that enables me to support myself in all realms – physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, and financial – and that enables me to explore and pursue my life’s mission.” As we continue into our third session, the realities of life creep in.
Celebrating Successes
There is plenty to celebrate about Diane’s progress, not the least of which is her continued commitment to cutting back on sugar and yeast. While she had granted herself the pleasure of one pastry each week, she had completely eliminated the indulgence in her treasured “coffee nips.” She was pleased to report that she had noticed the changes resulting in a more stable level of energy. It is wonderful that Diane has a level of self-awareness that enables her to tune into her body and the results of her actions. Additionally, she took time to acknowledge her gratitude for what is. Despite the fact that she continues to face daily challenges around major life functions, Diane recognizes that she has experienced great progress in the last three years and is able to engage in much more than was previously possible.
Overwhelmed in the Overwhelm
And yet, life has its ups and downs. In this session, Diane was more in the valley than at the peak, with a sense of overwhelm by the “to dos” and the tremendous energy required to accomplish the list. Not unlike most of us, she had fallen into the trap of beginning her days with a list of tasks that “must” be accomplished and succumbed to the panic and pressure that is created when everything seems important.
The Check Engine Light
Fortunately, Diane has a number of tools in her kit for subduing the overwhelm – that is when she can remember to use them! Recognizing the need especially for mindfulness, Diane identified a number of ways she could step out of the stress and pause. More importantly, she became aware of the way humor could support her in becoming present. Using a playful image of a “check engine” light, like the one found in a car, Diane decided to use the idea as a reminder to pay attention to when her engine needs attention.
Next week, I’ll share my thoughts about prioritizing…
Margaret Moore, also known as “Coach Meg,” is CEO and founder of Wellcoaches Corp. in Wellesley, MA and can be reached by email at:
coachmeg[at]wellcoaches.com
http://www.coachmeg.com
http://www.wellcoaches.com
http://www.harvardcoaching.org