Understanding Human Psychology

  Peter Senge, in his influential book "Schools That Learn," introduced the concept of the assembly line in education. This concept, borrowed from the industrial age, where assembly lines led to mass production, standardization and quality management. This suggests a sequential approach to learning, where one thing follows another, one process finishes before another starts. Linearity started making way in all aspects of our life, even education. While this model has been effective in certain respects, it can also limit our ability to think critically and holistically about life. The assembly line model in education is characterized by standardized curricula, a focus on grades and exams, and a linear progression through academic levels. While these elements can provide structure and efficiency, they can also stifle creativity and critical thinking. By emphasizing rote learning, focussing on grades and individual components, the assembly line model can overlook the interconnec...

  As I turn a year older, I find myself reflecting on my journey as a coach. What started as a role to facilitate growth and progress for others, has become a catalyst for my own growth. Through conversations with myself, I've come to realize that coaching is not just about helping others achieve their goals, but also about working on myself. As I progress in this role, I've learned that self-awareness is key. I've had to confront my own biases, limitations, and areas for improvement. It's been a humbling experience, but also a liberating one. With each conversation, I've gained new insights and perspectives, allowing me to become a better coach and person. My growth has been progressive, with each success and setback teaching me valuable lessons. I've set goals, achieved some, and adjusted others. Through it all, I've come to understand that coaching is not a destination, but a journey of continuous learning and self-improvement. As I look ahead, I'm ex...

  As a coach, I've encountered numerous individuals struggling with self-doubt and negative self-perception. Recently, a coachee asked a poignant question: "Do bad thoughts make me a bad person?" My response was simple yet profound: "The waves are not the ocean." At first, the coachee was taken aback, responding with a thoughtful "huh." This moment of realization was a turning point in our session. The metaphor struck a chord, allowing them to see their thoughts and emotions in a new light. Just as the ocean is vast and deep, encompassing both calm and turbulent waters, our minds are complex and multifaceted. The waves on the surface represent our thoughts and emotions, ever-changing and sometimes turbulent. However, they do not define the entirety of the ocean. Similarly, our thoughts and emotions do not define our true nature. This metaphor helped my coachee understand that their negative thoughts and emotions were mere waves, not a reflection of the...

  In the realm of coaching, the art of listening often trumps the skill of speaking. While a coach's questions can guide a client, it's the silent moments that truly unlock the potential for deep reflection and transformative insights. Imagine a coaching session with a high-performing executive struggling with work-life balance. They've been juggling demanding projects, a growing family, and a desire for personal fulfillment. As they describe their challenges, the executive's voice gradually slows down, their tone becoming more subdued. This is where silence becomes a potent tool. Instead of offering immediate advice or solutions, the coach chooses to simply listen. The silence that follows doesn't feel awkward; it's a space created for the client to delve deeper into their thoughts and emotions. As the silence stretches on, the executive begins to explore uncharted territories of their mind. They start to question their priorities, their values, and their defin...