Coaching is even more important in a time of crisis

I’m feeling lost, scared, uncertain. I can’t visit my elderly relatives and I’m worried about them. I’ve had to close my business and I don’t know what the future will be? Will I have a job? These are some of the comments that I’ve heard recently. In a matter of a few weeks everything that is familiar has changed. I’ve been struggling to find my place, and the relevance of coaching in this global crisis. I’ve realised that coaching is now more important than ever before.

The familiar things which we held onto for certainty are no longer there. The simple daily routines which provided comfort in regularity have gone. There is significant worry and uncertainty. As I stay confined to my house, with my daily walk round the block, avoiding people and maintaining social distancing, it’s easy to forget what’s happening outside my field of vision. I have friends in Milan, Italy, who have been in total lockdown for weeks. Friends in Melbourne, Australia, are in exactly the same situation as I am in the UK. The scale of this crisis is mind blowing! Days like these are unprecedented, never seen before.

In this massive crisis that has engulfed the whole world, I’ve wondered how I can contribute, what’s my place? This is a time when coaching is even more important than ever. The importance of human connection and being listened to is vital, even if via Skype, Zoom or phone.

Last week, I was struggling with the shock of this imposed new world, the speed of change and fearful for elderly relatives. I felt lost and uncertain. Then on Friday morning I participated in my regular supervision group via Zoom. This was great, I felt listened to, supported and valued. A weight was lifted, and this week I’m sleeping better and have a much more positive perspective.

This is my small example of the value of coaching in times of crisis. Being listened to, being acknowledged without judgement, feeling connected, and being able to drop the facade. These are simple things, but their absence tells us of their value.

Who can you connect with today? Who can you listen to? Who can you coach in a time of crisis?

I would like to thank Elizabeth, Karen, Martin, Mel and Simon for your support.

Let me know if you would like some coaching support during these difficult times.