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Ircel Harrison

@ircel.bsky.social

he/him. An itinerant Christian educator, I believe God is at work in unexpected places

137 Followers  |  173 Following  |  116 Posts  |  Joined: 30.07.2024  |  2.1133

Latest posts by ircel.bsky.social on Bluesky

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Proud of Stephanie’s achievements as an educator

12.08.2025 17:24 — 👍 0    🔁 0    💬 0    📌 0
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How Life Coaching Contributes to Mental Health (Without Being Therapy) Having served on the board of a faith-based counseling center, I have a great appreciation for professional counselors and therapists.  I have also been the client of a therapist, so I know the impact that a trained, empathetic counselor can have in one’s life.  As a result, when I train our coaches at Summit Coach Training, I have a clear understanding of the difference between counseling/therapy and coaching.   My colleague, Beth Kennett, has reminded me, however, that coaching can contribute to one’s mental health.   Life coaching can significantly contribute to mental health without being therapy by focusing on personal growth, clarity, and forward movement — not on diagnosing or healing mental illness. Here's how coaching can support mental well-being when properly used.   First, Future-Focused Empowerment.  Coaching helps clients set and achieve meaningful goals, boosting motivation and hope — both protective factors for mental health. It embraces and reinforces a growth mindset and helps individuals envision a future beyond their current perceived limitations. Unlike therapy, which may address trauma, mental illness, or emotional distress, coaching emphasizes envisioning a desired future and acting toward it—providing a sense of hope and empowerment.   Second, Enhancing Self-Awareness and Resilience.  Through reflective questioning and feedback, coaching builds self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and the capacity to manage stress and challenges.  These strengths support emotional regulation and help the client to avoid burnout or emotional spiraling.   Third, Building Healthy Habits and Boundaries.  Coaches help clients develop routines, boundaries, and accountability — key contributors to psychological well-being.  Small lifestyle shifts (e.g., time management, mindfulness, values alignment) can reduce anxiety and increase life satisfaction.   Fourth, Creating a Safe, Non-Judgmental Space.  While not clinical, the coaching relationship itself provides positive human connection, which can be healing and grounding.  It gives clients permission to dream, reflect, and express themselves without fear.  It becomes a sacred space for the client.   Fifth, Supporting Identity and Purpose.  Coaching often helps people rediscover who they are, what they value, and where they are headed — supporting existential well-being and meaning-making, which are central to mental health.   In short, life coaching supports mental well-being by helping people move from where they are to where they want to be, without delving into diagnosis or treatment.   (Developed with research by Chat GPT)         var gaJsHost = (("https:" == document.location.protocol) ? "https://ssl." : "http://www."); document.write(unescape("%3Cscript src='" + gaJsHost + "google-analytics.com/ga.js' type='text/javascript'%3E%3C/script%3E")); try { var pageTracker = _gat._getTracker("UA-7047602-1"); pageTracker._trackPageview(); } catch(err) {}
11.08.2025 11:03 — 👍 0    🔁 0    💬 0    📌 0

Evening Prayer: Loving God, may the blessings of Your love and mercy keep us through the night and grant us a good night's rest. May the blessings of Your grace be with the sick as well as the lonely and hurting. Keep us in Your care and keep in Your care those who suffer. Amen.

11.08.2025 01:41 — 👍 3    🔁 1    💬 0    📌 0
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The Call to Empower: Why You Should Consider Becoming a Coach Whatever the profession, many people find themselves standing at a crossroads, knowing where they want to go but unsure how to build the bridge to get there. If you are someone who naturally gravitates toward helping others find that path, who thrives on seeing potential unlocked, then becoming a coach might be more than a career—it could be your calling.   In this article, I use the term “coach” to refer to anyone who adheres to the International Coaching Federation definition of coaching:  “Partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential.”  One may choose different modifiers to clarity their particular interest—life, leadership, health, career, spiritual, etc.  Each requires additional training beyond the basics of coaching.   The primary reason to become a coach is the profound sense of purpose that comes from making a tangible, positive impact on another person's life. Unlike many professions where the results of your work are abstract, a coach witnesses transformation firsthand. You become a partner in your clients' journeys, helping them dismantle limiting beliefs, embrace their deepest values, set meaningful goals, and create actionable strategies for success. Whether it's a career change, a health transformation, or improving relationships, you act as a catalyst for growth. This process of empowering others is deeply fulfilling and provides a powerful "why" to your daily work.   Beyond the impact on clients, the journey of becoming a coach is one of intense personal and professional development for the coach themselves. To guide others effectively, you must first master the tools of the trade: active listening, powerful questioning, and maintaining an objective, non-judgmental perspective. This skill set enhances not only your coaching practice but every relationship in your life. You learn from each client's unique challenges and triumphs, broadening your own understanding of resilience, motivation, and the human spirit. In essence, as you help others grow, you inevitably grow too.   Becoming a coach is not about having all the answers. You are not a person’s “problem solver.”  It’s about asking the right questions, providing unwavering support, and holding a steadfast belief in your client's ability to create the life they desire. If you feel a pull to serve, a passion for potential, and a desire to align your profession with a deep sense of purpose, the world of coaching may be waiting for you.   (Written with research by ChatGPT.)   var gaJsHost = (("https:" == document.location.protocol) ? "https://ssl." : "http://www."); document.write(unescape("%3Cscript src='" + gaJsHost + "google-analytics.com/ga.js' type='text/javascript'%3E%3C/script%3E")); try { var pageTracker = _gat._getTracker("UA-7047602-1"); pageTracker._trackPageview(); } catch(err) {}
04.08.2025 11:04 — 👍 0    🔁 0    💬 0    📌 0
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Leatherwood quits ERLC – Baptist News Global The embattled president of the Southern Baptist Convention Ethics and Religious Liberty Committee resigned July 31.

Leatherwood quits ERLC baptistnews.com/article/leat...

01.08.2025 20:37 — 👍 0    🔁 0    💬 0    📌 0

Seth Godin source

29.07.2025 15:16 — 👍 1    🔁 0    💬 0    📌 0
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Preaching to the Choir While Children Die: The Cost of Silence on Gaza I believe many are beginning to suspect that history will one day judge us clearly and decisively based on where we stand on Gaza.

Preaching to the Choir While Children Die: The Cost of Silence on Gaza goodfaithmedia.org/the-cost-of-...

28.07.2025 17:09 — 👍 0    🔁 0    💬 0    📌 0
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Diversity and Inclusion Diversity has become a hot topic these days, especially as the Federal government applies standards to not only delete references or training that recognizes and encourages the diverse nature of our country within government agencies but attempts to punish any entity that seeks to honor and promote diversity.   This is a fool’s errand.  Diversity is not an initiative; it is our reality! All we must do is look around us at the grocery store, at the shopping center, in the schools, and on our streets to see diversity.   We are a nation of people from many countries, cultures, and personal experiences.  We are made of people who decided to come to the United States or whose ancestors made that choice. Diversity is a fact of life.   Even so, diversity challenges us to both empowerment and acceptance.  How do we work to leverage our diversity to build a strong nation?  In some cases, people with specific backgrounds or needs benefit from focused support and accommodation.  For example, many institutions have services to support veterans, recognizing their need to reintegrate into everyday life. Why not provide the same support for the neurodiverse, ethnic, and differently abled?   What we need to realize is that our people are our greatest resource, and we must be committed to developing that resource.   A disturbing point is that we don’t often see diversity in the church. As Dr. King said, "The most segregated hour in America is 11 o'clock on Sunday morning".  The faithful should not only accept that we are all made in the image of our Creator but called to community.   Another reality—unfortunate as it may be—is that diversity is being invited to the party; inclusion is being asked to dance.  Diversity is a reality; inclusion is our challenge.   var gaJsHost = (("https:" == document.location.protocol) ? "https://ssl." : "http://www."); document.write(unescape("%3Cscript src='" + gaJsHost + "google-analytics.com/ga.js' type='text/javascript'%3E%3C/script%3E")); try { var pageTracker = _gat._getTracker("UA-7047602-1"); pageTracker._trackPageview(); } catch(err) {}
26.07.2025 18:56 — 👍 0    🔁 0    💬 0    📌 0
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Might what's happening at Belmont explain Baylor? When I read about U.S. Rep. Andy Ogles attacking Belmont University, all I could think about was Baylor University.

Might what's happening at Belmont explain what's happening at Baylor? baptistnews.com/article/migh...

22.07.2025 19:31 — 👍 1    🔁 0    💬 0    📌 0
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Information or Formation? Sociologist Brene Brown once said, “What we know matters, but who we are matters more."  This applies to our understanding of Christian discipleship.  As Christians, we often struggle with the balance between orthodoxy (right knowledge or doctrine) and orthopraxy (right practice or action). This is the challenge that James presents when he writes, “But someone will say, ‘You have faith; I have deeds.’ Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by my deeds.” (James 2:18, NIV)   Both right belief and right action are necessary in the life of a follower of Christ, but can one get in the way of the other?   Historically, Baptists have been very good at communicating information about the Bible and the faith.  They delight in asking questions of scripture that exegete the text in an attempt to understand the who, what, how, and why of the passage.  We are less open to letting the text speak to us.     For example, when I attempt to introduce Lectio Divina to a Baptist group, they often want to question the text rather than let it question them.  The practice of Lectio Divina treats the text not as something to be studied but as the Living Word that questions us.   Certainly, we need to understand the text to avoid its misuse.  There are three questions we should ask in studying a passage of scripture:   * What does it say? Do we understand the words and their meaning? * What did it mean (in context)?  Every part of the Bible was given first to a particular group of people in a specific context.  What did it mean to those who heard the text for the first time?  Was it teaching, exhortation, or worship?  What life circumstances did it address? * What does it mean to me?  Study of scripture without application is incomplete.  What does this text say to me today and what should I do about it?   Ultimately, the goal of right teaching is right action.  If we become experts in the study of the Bible but never put it into practice, we have missed the point.  Information is important, but formation for Christian living is the real goal.   (This post originally appeared here on August 23, 2017.)   var gaJsHost = (("https:" == document.location.protocol) ? "https://ssl." : "http://www."); document.write(unescape("%3Cscript src='" + gaJsHost + "google-analytics.com/ga.js' type='text/javascript'%3E%3C/script%3E")); try { var pageTracker = _gat._getTracker("UA-7047602-1"); pageTracker._trackPageview(); } catch(err) {}
10.07.2025 11:04 — 👍 0    🔁 0    💬 0    📌 0
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What is Leadership? Leadership has been a popular topic of discussion down through the ages.  There has been an ebb and flow of emphases—authoritarian vs. participative; task vs. relational and many more. Take your choice.   A recent graphic by Kavit Haria that caught my attention exemplifies two contemporary approaches to leadership.  Haria suggests that many people tend to think that leadership is two things:  giving orders and always having an answer.  He then presents a broader understanding of what leadership actually is.  Here are his suggestions:     Making people feel safe.  Individuals contribute more to an organization when they feel that they are safe physically, intellectually, and professionally.  If a person fears or dreads coming to work, something is wrong.  A feeling of safety facilitates participation and personal investment.   Coaching.  A good leader calls forth the best in others by helping them discover and apply their strengths and talents.  In so doing, the leader discovers personal resources and abilities that will strengthen the organization.  This, in turn, encourages . . .   Inspiring others to grow. No one wants to be in a dead-end job, but when there are no opportunities to learn and develop, addressing new challenges, a person can become frustrated.  A good leader is not threatened by growing, healthy team members.   Leading with compassion.  When a person leads with compassion, there is a resonant relationship with team members.  Compassion is not passive, but active, shown in the respect and attention shared with others.  This comes from . . .   Listening with full attention.  A good leader gives a team member the opportunity to fully express himself or herself and listens without a preconceived outcome in mind.  This requires not only humility on the part of the leader but agility as well.   Knowing when to step back. People grow in their work when they have clear responsibility.  Will they stumble and fail?  Possibly, but a leader is not there to hold their hand but to process the results.   Holding accountable.  Responsibility and accountability go together.  A good leader “holds the reins lightly” but know when to pull back on them as well.   Being a leader of this type takes courage, clarity, confidence, and humility—courage to trust the team members, clarity of mission, confidence that people can grow, and humility to accept the leader’s potential failure as well as that of the team.  For a good leader, nothing is predetermined but there is always possibility and potential.   var gaJsHost = (("https:" == document.location.protocol) ? "https://ssl." : "http://www."); document.write(unescape("%3Cscript src='" + gaJsHost + "google-analytics.com/ga.js' type='text/javascript'%3E%3C/script%3E")); try { var pageTracker = _gat._getTracker("UA-7047602-1"); pageTracker._trackPageview(); } catch(err) {}
09.07.2025 11:01 — 👍 0    🔁 0    💬 0    📌 0
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Take Time to Sharpen Your Ax Abraham Lincoln is reported to have said: “If I had six hours to chop down a tree, I'd spend the first four hours sharpening the axe.” Stephen Covey in his The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People changed this to “Sharpen your saw.”  But even earlier, the author of Ecclesiastes wrote, If the ax is dull, and one does not sharpen the edge, then he must use more strength; but wisdom brings success.” (10:10, NIV).  The Message has, “Remember: “The duller the ax the harder the work; use your head: the more brains, the less muscle.”   The basic idea behind the quote and the story is that we must spend time preparing to accomplish the tasks at hand.  What does this mean for us in these volatile times that challenge our capacity and resilience?  Let me share some ideas.   First, Rest.  In addition to an adequate amount of sleep each night, seize the opportunity during the day to just stop and breath.  This is the gift of life that God has given to us.  Stop and take a few deep breaths and share a simple prayer, then return to the task at hand.   Second, Read (and listen). Invest some time each day in learning something new.  It doesn’t have to be something on cutting edge technology, management, or culture.  There is a wealth of wisdom from the past that we have yet to embrace.  If you don’t have time to read, try audio books or (wisely chosen) podcasts. Be open to learning something new every day.   Third, Relate.  Nothing takes the place of personal contact with family, friends, and colleagues.  This takes us out of ourselves and into the lives of others.  Even for introvert, isolation is an energy drainer.  Don’t let it take hold.   Fourth, Remember.  Take the opportunity to remember those who invested in you and encouraged you in the past.  What did they say or do that made a difference in your life?  How has this helped you to become the person you are?  How can you do the same for someone else?   Rest, read, relate, and remember.  Simple tasks, but they can make a tremendous difference in our lives.   var gaJsHost = (("https:" == document.location.protocol) ? "https://ssl." : "http://www."); document.write(unescape("%3Cscript src='" + gaJsHost + "google-analytics.com/ga.js' type='text/javascript'%3E%3C/script%3E")); try { var pageTracker = _gat._getTracker("UA-7047602-1"); pageTracker._trackPageview(); } catch(err) {}
07.07.2025 11:03 — 👍 0    🔁 0    💬 0    📌 0
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Southern Baptists Call to Overturn Supreme Court Ruling on Same-Sex Marriage The nation’s largest Protestant denomination was motivated by conservative Christians’ success in reversing Roe v. Wade.

Get over it, people! Southern Baptists Endorse Effort to Overturn Same-Sex Marriage www.nytimes.com/2025/06/10/u...

11.06.2025 00:57 — 👍 0    🔁 0    💬 0    📌 0
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Is It True That People Are Your Greatest Asset? Leaders will often say that the people in their organization are its most important asset.  Many probably believe this.  As I have been thinking about the development of clergy leaders, I wonder if lay and denominational leaders believe this.  Is there sufficient investment in retaining, developing, and maintain clergy leaders?     In his book The Systems Leader, Robert E. Siegel suggests that investing in staff should be a priority concern. Let’s look at his observations and apply them to our church and denominational settings.   First, Siegel observes that it is cheaper and easier to retrain that replace. He writes, “Studies show that it often costs less to reskill a current employee than to recruit, hire, and train a new one. According to the Society for Human Resource Management, finding and training a new employee can cost as much as six to nine months of their salary.”    This means reskilling existing personnel is not just the right thing to do, but often the most cost-effective strategy.  When so many of our churches are finding it difficult to find effective leaders, this idea might be applied in a couple of ways.  Denominations should invest in pastoral leaders who have struggled in present or past positions, providing opportunities for continuing education, skill development, mental health support, and coaching.  As churches reevaluate staff priorities and restructure, the first strategy should be to identify those already on staff who might shift their responsibilities with additional training and support.   Second, investing in people boosts moral and discretionary effort.  When an organization invests in retraining its professional leaders, it sends a powerful message. Siegel says, “Continuing education and upskilling are crucial for fostering loyalty, enthusiasm, and a productive workplace culture.”  In any setting, including churches and denominations, offering the opportunity to hone and enhance one’s skills expresses support and acknowledges the importance of that person and their ministry.   Third, institutional knowledge is an invaluable asset.  Prioritizing fresh ideas, new talent, and innovation is not only important but compulsory in today’s changing climate, but systems leaders understand the unique value of institutional knowledge—the insights, perspectives, and relationships that only come from experience. Leveraging these can be keys to solving present and future problems.  Institutional knowledge in churches and denominations should be not feared but utilized.   If we really believe that people are important, let’s show it.       var gaJsHost = (("https:" == document.location.protocol) ? "https://ssl." : "http://www."); document.write(unescape("%3Cscript src='" + gaJsHost + "google-analytics.com/ga.js' type='text/javascript'%3E%3C/script%3E")); try { var pageTracker = _gat._getTracker("UA-7047602-1"); pageTracker._trackPageview(); } catch(err) {}
09.06.2025 11:04 — 👍 0    🔁 0    💬 0    📌 0
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Coaching Excellence What is Coaching--Really?

ircelharrison.substack.com/p/coaching-e...

06.06.2025 19:42 — 👍 0    🔁 0    💬 0    📌 0
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The Career Game Loop: The Support of Peers We often talk about the value of coaches and mentors in professional development but give little attention to the value of peers in helping us achieve what we are seeking.   In The Career Game Loop, author Jessica Lindl emphasizes the importance of peers to our development.  They can be older, younger, or the same age.  The key is that you share a desire to learn and grow, and you are willing to make a mutual commitment to the relationship.  Peers can provide both accountability and inspiration.    Peers can hold each other accountable by giving attention to the following:   * Setting goals.  We can share with our peer where we are and where we want to be, then articulating both specific goals and timelines to achieve them.  * Sharing progress. We need to keep in touch regularly with our peer to motivate us to make headway between conversations.  * Asking for feedback.  Questions and feedback from a peer can help us to reflect on our progress and bring focus to our efforts.   Connecting with a peer can also be inspirational. Especially if we share similar interests and goals, we can encourage and support each other in our individual development.  Not only are we learning skills but how to question, encourage, and celebrate with one another.   Who are your peers and how can you connect with them more effectively?           var gaJsHost = (("https:" == document.location.protocol) ? "https://ssl." : "http://www."); document.write(unescape("%3Cscript src='" + gaJsHost + "google-analytics.com/ga.js' type='text/javascript'%3E%3C/script%3E")); try { var pageTracker = _gat._getTracker("UA-7047602-1"); pageTracker._trackPageview(); } catch(err) {}
06.06.2025 14:52 — 👍 0    🔁 0    💬 0    📌 0
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Being Positive: Unleashing Your Best Self When I began coaching, my colleague Mark Tidsworth introduced me to the concept of “positive psychology.”  I have come to appreciate how this approach, pioneered by Martin Seligman and others, can enrich and inform my coaching.   Basically, positive psychology is like the "glass half full" approach to understanding people. Instead of just focusing on what's wrong with us, it's all about what makes us feel good and live a good life.   Think of it this way:   * It's not just about fixing problems: It's about figuring out what makes us happy and how to get more of that. * It's about our strengths: Instead of dwelling on our weaknesses, it looks at what we're good at and how we can use those things. * Happy feelings matter: It looks at why feeling things like joy and gratitude are important. * Getting lost in the moment is good: That feeling when you're totally absorbed in something you love? That's important for feeling good. * Friends are key: Good relationships are a huge part of being happy. * Having a "why" is important: Feeling like your life means something makes a big difference. * Being able to bounce back is a superpower: Positive psychology looks at how some people are good at dealing with tough times. * Being thankful and present helps: Things like being grateful for what you have and paying attention to the moment can make you happier. * Even groups can be happy: It's not just about individuals; it's also about how schools, workplaces, and communities can help everyone thrive. * It's not just wishful thinking: It uses science to figure out what actually works.   Positive psychology shifts the focus from repairing weaknesses to cultivating strengths, aiming to enhance well-being and promote a fulfilling life through positivity. While not rooted in Christian theology, the principles of positive psychology resonate with Christian beliefs, offering believers opportunities to draw upon their faith-based resources for a meaningful existence.   This is truly an excellent resource for personal growth and development!   (Written with the assistance of Google Gemini.)       var gaJsHost = (("https:" == document.location.protocol) ? "https://ssl." : "http://www."); document.write(unescape("%3Cscript src='" + gaJsHost + "google-analytics.com/ga.js' type='text/javascript'%3E%3C/script%3E")); try { var pageTracker = _gat._getTracker("UA-7047602-1"); pageTracker._trackPageview(); } catch(err) {}
02.06.2025 11:02 — 👍 0    🔁 0    💬 0    📌 0
Why I Continue to Post on Facebook I am not an apologist for social media—it can be divisive, time-consuming, and distasteful. Even so, I continue to post regularly on Facebook.  Here are my reasons:   Posting reminds me to celebrate the good things of life—family, friends, special occasions.  I am reminded of the blessings of present and past relationships.  That’s why you will see lots of pictures of my grandchildren and great grandchildren!   Posting allows me to connect with a large community of people with both similar and diverse opinions.  Many of these are trusted friends and colleagues. I want to maintain that contact, not matter how tenuous. Posting is a way to encourage others.  I share scripture, key quotes, and ideas that have caught my attention.  There’s enough negativity out there; let’s encourage each other with positive ideas. Posting gives me the opportunity to teach.  That may sound a bit presumptuous, but I consider myself an educator—primarily in history, religion, and psychology.  I like to share historical facts that remind us both of our rich heritage and our frequent shortsightedness. Posting allows me to engage with other people on specific topics.  My posts are often questions rather than statements in order to elicit input from others.  Someone once posted, “You are almost kind to a fault in your comments.”  I take that as a compliment.   Posting requires me to be responsible. In recent days, I have disciplined myself not to share quotes, memes, or articles without authentication.  It may be funny or engaging, but is it true?  I often will respond to a posting with the question, “What’s your source?”  My bias is toward established news media such as the BBC, NPR, New York Times, Baptist News Global, and the Religious News Service.  I also use Snopes from time to time to get clarity about the factuality of a story.   Am I taking this too seriously? Why don’t I just use the medium to criticize and be a grumpy old man? Because if my name is on it, it reflects me and what I value.  And it keeps me engaged with people I care about.  Not trying to impose my ideas on others, but this is where I am. var gaJsHost = (("https:" == document.location.protocol) ? "https://ssl." : "http://www."); document.write(unescape("%3Cscript src='" + gaJsHost + "google-analytics.com/ga.js' type='text/javascript'%3E%3C/script%3E")); try { var pageTracker = _gat._getTracker("UA-7047602-1"); pageTracker._trackPageview(); } catch(err) {}
31.05.2025 18:00 — 👍 0    🔁 0    💬 0    📌 0
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What are the Qualities of a Coaching Leader? Do you have what it takes to be a coaching leader?  A coaching leader is someone who encourages another person to identify his or her goals, discover the resources available to pursue those goals, develop action plans together, and then walk along beside that person in the process of achieving the person’s goals.  A coaching leader can apply these skills in working with groups and teams as well, multiplying his or her impact as a coach by including others in the process.   A coaching leader is strong in the elements that Daniel Goleman attributes to emotional intelligence:   * Self-awareness. * Self-regulation. * Motivation. * Empathy. * Social skills.   These are skills that can be learned once a person understands his or her own emotional intelligence profile.  The more that you, as a leader, can manage each of these areas, the higher your emotional intelligence.  Emotional intelligence is essential to be an effective coaching leader. In addition, there other qualities that make a good coaching leader.   First, a coaching leader possesses self-knowledge and uses it effectively.  The coaching leader understands his or her strengths and limitations, knowing how to use those strengths as well as minimize limitations.  By doing so, the coach sets boundaries for herself or himself so that the coaching leader’s own personality enhances rather impeding the coaching relationship.   Second, the coaching leader sees the best in others.  The coaching leader is always looking for the potential in the other person, believing it is there until it manifests itself. If the coaching leader is a Christian that understanding is based on seeing each person as made in the image of God.   Third, a coaching leader is patient, exercising self-control.  The coaching leader is willing to listen and reflect rather than give answers.  He or she manages the process rather than the agenda.  This requires both empathic and engaged listening.   Fourth, the coaching leader exercises his or her curiosity not simply for information but to empower the person being coached to dig deeper into his or her own resources and abilities.  Using powerful questions, the coach helps the person being coached enter into dialogue with himself or herself.   Five, a coaching leader is proactive, taking the initiative to push the person being coached onward and modeling forward movement.     Finally, the coaching leader has the heart of a teacher.  The teaching model is the “guide by the side” rather than the “sage on the stage.”  The coaching leader’s goal is to draw out rather than pour in.   Every organization will become stronger, more productive, and more sustainable if it encourages its leaders to use coaching principles with individuals, groups, and teams. ________________________________________________________ International Coaching Week   This is International Coaching Week.  Launched in 1999, International Coaching Week (ICW) is a weeklong global celebration that educates the public about the value of working with a professional coach and acknowledges the results and progress made through the coaching process.     Pinnacle Leadership Associates provides quality individual and group coaching especially for clergy leaders.  We also offer certified coach training through our Summit Coach Training program.    For more information about coaching or coach training, contact Ircel Harrison, coaching coordinator, at ircelharrison@gmail.com or check out our website.  (Originally published here February 8, 2018)   var gaJsHost = (("https:" == document.location.protocol) ? "https://ssl." : "http://www."); document.write(unescape("%3Cscript src='" + gaJsHost + "google-analytics.com/ga.js' type='text/javascript'%3E%3C/script%3E")); try { var pageTracker = _gat._getTracker("UA-7047602-1"); pageTracker._trackPageview(); } catch(err) {}
16.05.2025 11:01 — 👍 0    🔁 0    💬 0    📌 0
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Recognizing Personal Differences in Coaching A friend got very upset with me once when I said, “I don’t treat all of my children the same way.”  He thought this was very unfair, but I tried to explain that my desire was to relate to them in a way that was appropriate to them as individuals.  I am sure that I did not always succeed, but I realized that each of them was unique--the needs of one were very different from the needs of another.  I loved, and still love, all of them but the important thing was that I attempted to provide what I thought each one needed.   So here is my secret:  I don’t coach all of my coaching clients in the same way!  Why?  Because they are individuals with different needs, experiences, and capacities.  Each person has their own particular way of processing experiences, learning, and acting.  If I fail to take that into account, our coaching relationship will not be effective.   For example, one client may know what she wants to work on and comes prepared for the session.  She already has some action steps in mind, so we spend time talking about the potential challenges she might encounter, alternatives to consider, and a realistic time frame within which to work. She leaves with a plan in hand.   Another client may come to the session in the midst of a relationship crisis.  He has no idea of the best response.  We spend a good bit of time unpacking the situation as I ask questions for understanding.  Part of those questions may help the client to clarify his role in relationship to that person, his responsibility, and the scope of his impact.  We seek to identify the skills that he can apply in this context.  Only then can he determine a way forward or a course of action for him.   Then there is the client who comes with a new project she is planning, perhaps a new initiative for her congregation.  This is a “blue sky” idea.  How is this going to be accomplished?  What is her role?  Who can help make this happen?  What are some possible scenarios for which she should be prepared?  After we spend time on these questions, she can define her role and begin to plan to accomplish her dream.   One thing all of these clients have in common is motivation, but the level of awareness in each situation varies.  Each is a talented individual, but how those talents will be applied is not yet clear.    Coaching is not a cookie-cutter process but must take into account the individuality of each person, the unique way in which God has put that person together.  Therefore, no two coaching sessions are exactly alike since no two clients are exactly alike.  It does keep things interesting.     International Coaching Week   This is International Coaching Week.  Launched in 1999, International Coaching Week (ICW) is a weeklong global celebration that educates the public about the value of working with a professional coach and acknowledges the results and progress made through the coaching process.     Pinnacle Leadership Associates provides quality individual and group coaching especially for clergy leaders.  We also offer certified coach training through our Summit Coach Training program.    For more information about coaching or coach training, contact Ircel Harrison, coaching coordinator, at ircelharrison@gmail.com or check out our website.     (This post originally appeared here October 7, 2020.) var gaJsHost = (("https:" == document.location.protocol) ? "https://ssl." : "http://www."); document.write(unescape("%3Cscript src='" + gaJsHost + "google-analytics.com/ga.js' type='text/javascript'%3E%3C/script%3E")); try { var pageTracker = _gat._getTracker("UA-7047602-1"); pageTracker._trackPageview(); } catch(err) {}
15.05.2025 11:03 — 👍 0    🔁 0    💬 0    📌 0
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Compassionate Accountability: Coaching The Gallup organization did a meta-analysis of 100 million employee interviews to identify what makes a highly engaged team.  The key factor is the manager, but one with a particular style of leading.  In a recent blog post, Jim Clifton reported, “Gallup has discovered -- through studying what the best managers do differently -- that great managing is an act of coaching, not one of directing and administrating.” At the center of compassionate accountability is coaching.  Good managers engage in regular coaching conversations to encourage, develop, and support team members.  In the blog, Clifton suggests several ways to implement this game changing strategy in an organization. 1.   1.  Recognize that Millennials and Generation Z individuals want to learn and grow.  Coaching provides this opportunity. 2.     Announce to your organization that your leaders will move from administering teams to coaching teams. 3.     Do away with all evaluation forms and institute this approach: “We lead through a habit of having one meaningful coaching conversation per week with each team member.” 4.     The conversation should be about goals—"What progress is the team member making on his or her goals and how is he/she serving constituents?” 5.     Implement a plan to train managers to be coaches.  Clifton states that leadership should say, “We are going to teach you to develop people just like a winning coach develops a great player and team in any sport—by maximizing your strengths and minimizing your weaknesses.” Undergirding this approach are these values: 1.  1.     Clarity—This approach is not optional.  This is our culture. 2.     Intentionality--This is going to happen. Count on it. 3.     Relationship—This will require resonant leadership, connecting person to person. 4.     Transformation—We will train for, encourage, and reward change. Perhaps the greatest challenge here is working to make the coaching conversations quality experiences.  This can be reinforced as managers meet with, encourage, and coach each other.  In turn, team members can do peer coaching or develop coaching groups around specific topics, challenges, or tasks.  When a coaching culture takes hold, it transforms very conversation in the organization. Learn more about coaching here. ­­­­­­___________________________________________________________________ International Coaching Week This is International Coaching Week.  Launched in 1999, International Coaching Week (ICW) is a weeklong global celebration that educates the public about the value of working with a professional coach and acknowledges the results and progress made through the coaching process.   Pinnacle Leadership Associates provides quality individual and group coaching especially for clergy leaders.  We also offer certified coach training through our Summit Coach Training program.  For more information about coaching or coach training, contact Ircel Harrison, coaching coordinator, at ircelharrison@gmail.com or check out our website. (Originally published here February 2, 2024.) var gaJsHost = (("https:" == document.location.protocol) ? "https://ssl." : "http://www."); document.write(unescape("%3Cscript src='" + gaJsHost + "google-analytics.com/ga.js' type='text/javascript'%3E%3C/script%3E")); try { var pageTracker = _gat._getTracker("UA-7047602-1"); pageTracker._trackPageview(); } catch(err) {}
14.05.2025 11:02 — 👍 0    🔁 0    💬 0    📌 0
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The Gift of Coaching At some point, I discovered that you learn more by teaching than by being a student in a course.  For four years, colleague Beth Kennett and I have taught an Introduction to Coaching class as part of Summit Coach Training from Pinnacle.  In teaching, I have rediscovered at least ten concepts that I think every coach should remember.  1.  1.  The client is central.  Coaching is really all about the client. The client sets the agenda, and the coach provides the process.  If you have any concerns about what to ask or how to proceed, ask yourself, “Does this serve the client?” 2.     Coaching is really a partnership.  It is a collaborative activity.  Bob Dale spoke about coach and client as “thought partners.”  It is a partnership that fosters creativity on the part of client and learning on the part of the coach. 3.     You are not a “fixer.”  Many of us who are coaches come from backgrounds where we were problem-solvers—counselors, educators, clergy, leaders.  As coaches, “fixing” someone else or providing all the answers to their challenges is not our task.  If we do this, we are taking away from the client the opportunity learn for themselves and to take responsibility for their own actions. 4.     Listen the client’s story.  Every person’s story is rich with meaning.  A good coach listens to the story because it provides indicators about how the client makes sense of her or his reality. 5.     Offer a sacred, safe space for the client where he or she can talk about their deepest concerns, hopes, and dreams.  Give the client a chance for their soul to speak. 6.     Let the client think.  When there is silence after you ask a question, you are not obligated to fill that space.  Silence is not a bad thing; it gives the client time to reflect. The compulsion to speak may say more about either our own insecurity or our desire to succeed as a coach. 7.     Coach the person not the problem. Marcia Reynolds wrote a book with this title.  The coach’s role is not to solve the client’s problem/issue but to encourage the client to discover her or his own resources to do this. 8.     Coach to your client’s strengths.  I have had some push-back on this, but I agree with Marcus Buckingham that working on weaknesses is a great expenditure of energy that may become disillusioning and demotivating for the client.  Help the client to discover what she or he does well and to do more of it. 9.     Your experience is a resource not an answer.  My experience may help me to understand a client better or even to identify with that person in some way, but their experiences and mine are different. When something comes to mind in a conversation which connects to my open background, I move it to a mental “backup file” for perspective or to drive my own empathy for the client.  I don’t have to share it. 10.  Embrace your incompetence.   Seth Godin suggests that bringing a learner’s naivete to a conversation opens opportunities for both the client and the coach to grow.   As you review this list, you may note that coaching relationship fosters growth not only for the client but for the coach as well.  Even though the client is the focus of the coaching conversation, the engagement is also a gift to the coach.  It is a gift to value highly.       International Coaching Week   This is International Coaching Week.  Launched in 1999, International Coaching Week (ICW) is a weeklong global celebration that educates the public about the value of working with a professional coach and acknowledges the results and progress made through the coaching process.     Pinnacle Leadership Associates provides quality individual and group coaching especially for clergy leaders.  We also offer certified coach training through our Summit Coach Training program.    For more information about coaching or coach training, contact Ircel Harrison, coaching coordinator, at ircelharrison@gmail.com or check out our website.     (This post originally appeared here on December 28, 2024.) var gaJsHost = (("https:" == document.location.protocol) ? "https://ssl." : "http://www."); document.write(unescape("%3Cscript src='" + gaJsHost + "google-analytics.com/ga.js' type='text/javascript'%3E%3C/script%3E")); try { var pageTracker = _gat._getTracker("UA-7047602-1"); pageTracker._trackPageview(); } catch(err) {}
13.05.2025 11:00 — 👍 1    🔁 0    💬 0    📌 0

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