Understanding Human Psychology

I recently had a coaching session where the coachee started with a clear request: "I want you to suggest what I should do about X, Y, and Z." They went on listing their concerns, looking at me expectantly. I smiled and gently reminded them, “As I mentioned before, coaching isn’t about giving suggestions. But I will be here with you to explore all these topics.” And so, we began. Through thoughtful questioning and open exploration, we unpacked each of their concerns. I watched as they reflected, dug deeper, and connected the dots in their own way. As the session unfolded, their energy shifted—from seeking advice to discovering their own insights. When we wrapped up, I asked, “What was the value of this session for you?” They took a moment and said, “It was an incredible session! I got so much clarity.” Smiling, I asked, “Did I suggest anything to you at any point?” They paused, then laughed, “Not at all. And yet, it worked like magic!” That moment—seeing the twinkle i...

It was 2018. I was in Bangalore, sitting in one of the city’s famous gardens, lost in thought. I had just been promoted and was on a business trip. My mind was occupied with plans, responsibilities, and the weight of my new role. But then, something unexpected happened—I heard the birds.   Of course, I had heard birds before. But that day, the chirping was different. It wasn’t just background noise; it was soothing, almost musical. Maybe I had never truly listened before. That moment stayed with me, and from that day forward, birds became a symbol of mindfulness for me.   Now, years later, I live in the heart of a bustling city, yet I am fortunate to have a home in a large society where nature still finds a way to thrive. Every morning, as I wake up and open my eyes, the first thing I hear is the symphony of birds outside my window when I wake up. It feels like they are orchestrating a melody. That is a gentle reminder to start the day with calmness and gratitude. It...

Critical thinking isn’t about rejecting authority or doubting everything—it’s about approaching information with a curious and open mind. The moment we start challenging our starting points, we open ourselves to growth, change, and new possibilities. I remember a coaching session where a client was frustrated with his team. He felt they weren’t proactive and constantly needed direction. “They just don’t take ownership,” he said. Instead of agreeing or offering a quick solution, I asked, “What assumptions are you making about their behavior?” At first, he was puzzled. But as we explored further, he realized he had assumed his team lacked initiative because they didn’t care. In reality, they were hesitant because they feared making mistakes. This shift in perspective changed everything. Instead of being frustrated, he saw an opportunity to create a safe space for his team to take risks and grow. Next time you feel stuck, ask yourself: What assumptions am I making here? You might be surpr...

If our assumptions can keep us trapped, how do we break free? The first step is simple yet powerful: question everything. In my previous post I discussed about how easily we succumb to believing an idea, especially from authority figures.  At most times simple ideas become ingrained and are carried with us for lives. As simple as there are ghosts in dark corners manifests in behaviours we show in adulthood. We also discussed about breaking free from assumptions and beliefs that are not serving help us release negativity and question ourselves the evidence and truth.  Here let's look at a few steps to get started: 1. Identify the Source – Where does this belief or assumption come from? Is it based on personal experience, societal norms, or something someone once told you? 2. Look for Contradictions – Have you ever seen evidence that challenges this belief? What counterexamples exist? 3. Test It in the Real World – What happens if you act as if the assumption isn’t true? Someti...

We don’t just accept assumptions in simple exercises like I had mentioned in my last post about assuming two circles are not identical when someone told us they are not, and then going the next step to pointing out which one is larger than the other. We also carry assumptions into our daily decisions, beliefs, and even lifelong perspectives. Many of the things we hold as absolute truths may simply be ideas we inherited from authority figures, cultural conditioning, or personal experiences that shaped our worldview.  As a coach, I often witness how deeply ingrained beliefs can keep people stuck. Some individuals believe they are “not leadership material” because they were once criticized early in their careers. Others assume that changing careers is “too risky” because they’ve been told stability is everything.  These beliefs are rarely questioned but have a profound impact on their choices, success, and fulfillment. If we can challenge the assumptions it would change our lives...

I recently came across a fascinating social experiment that perfectly illustrates how our minds work when performing a critical thinking task. In the experiment, a speaker presented two circles—one blue and one red—to an audience and asked them which was larger. He also added an intriguing statement: The circles are not identical. Then, he asked the audience to vote—some believed the blue circle was larger, while others chose the red. After collecting their responses, he revealed the truth: the circles were 'identical in size' all along.  The experiment wasn’t about optical illusions; it was about perception and influence. By merely stating that the circles were different, the speaker planted a seed of doubt. The audience, trusting the authority on stage, let their minds work based on this assumption, even though their own eyes could have told them otherwise. This experiment highlights a crucial question: How often do we challenge the very starting point of our thinking?  

  In coaching, I’ve seen the Dead Horse Theory manifest in people’s lives—when they hold onto relationships, career paths, or personal goals that are clearly not serving them. Instead of accepting reality, they keep searching for ways to ‘fix’ things, hoping to make the unworkable work. I once coached a client who was holding onto a leadership role that was draining him. Despite constant stress, a lack of fulfillment, and growing frustration, he kept trying to adjust—changing his leadership style, taking on new projects, even working with different teams. But deep down, he already knew the truth: the role was not a good fit. It was only when he finally acknowledged this that new opportunities emerged. He transitioned into a different project that aligned with his strengths and passions, instead of struggling everyday to grapple with things. The relief and clarity he experienced proved that sometimes, the best decision is to stop trying to revive the dead horse and instead, find a n...

  Have you ever seen a failing project that just won’t be shut down? Instead of moving on, companies pour in more resources, change leadership, or alter strategies—while ignoring the simple truth: the horse is dead. This is the essence of the Dead Horse Theory, which highlights how organizations struggle to let go of failing initiatives. We encounter Corporate Dead Horses when persistence turns into stagnation. In the business world, failed projects often continue well past their prime because of sunk costs, emotional attachment, or the reluctance to admit failure. Instead of acknowledging reality, organizations might try to fix it by changing their ways of working. - Assign a new project manager. - Change the strategy or methodology. - Increase the budget. - Conduct endless meetings to “find a solution.” I once worked with a company that was inducting it's new employes by showing age old videos of how the organisation grew over years. The management felt a sense of pride to share ...

When I first received an email from a senior stakeholder about a task I had to deliver, my immediate reaction was overwhelm. The scope seemed too vast, the expectations too high, and I found myself questioning—had I committed too much? Doubts crept in, and the weight of the responsibility felt heavier by the minute.   At first, I kept overthinking, trying to solve everything in my head. But when I finally sat down with my team and discussed the task, something shifted. As we broke the problem down together, the path forward became clearer. What initially seemed complicated now had a structure, and I could see exactly how to approach it.   By the time the meeting happened, I was prepared. And to my surprise, everything went smoothly. The very thing I was overthinking had now turned into a well-managed discussion. Looking back, I realized that stepping back and seeking support was the key.   We often believe we must figure everything out on our own, but that’...

Some days feel like a whirlwind—back-to-back meetings, endless emails, and barely a moment to breathe. I was having one of those days, too busy even to grab a proper lunch. As people passed by, waving politely, I stayed put, resigned to yet another meal replaced by tea or hot water.   But then, something changed. A colleague walked in, saw me buried in work, and instead of just acknowledging my exhaustion, she did something unexpected. She insisted that I eat, she took my food, heated it up, and placed it in front of me. “Eat,” she said, giving me those ten minutes I wouldn’t have taken for myself.   It was such a simple act, yet it meant everything. In a world where we often assume that people will manage on their own, she reminded me how powerful it is to have someone by your side. Small gestures—a warm meal, a kind word, a thoughtful act—can make a difference in ways we don’t always realize.   That day, I learned something important: You don’t have to ma...

Have you ever noticed how easy it is to talk to someone who truly listens? It’s like looking into a mirror and seeing yourself clearly. I once had a friend who never opened up about his struggles, always brushing things off with a joke. One evening, instead of laughing along, I simply said, “I feel like you’re carrying something heavy. I’m here if you want to talk.” He paused, then finally shared what had been weighing on him for months. People open up when they feel reflected, not interrogated. When they sense that you’re not just hearing their words, but truly seeing them. Being a good listener isn’t just about silence—it’s about making the other person feel safe enough to speak.

  Imagine planting a seed and expecting a tree to grow overnight. Absurd, right? Yet, when we meet people, we sometimes expect them to trust us immediately. But trust, like a plant, needs time to take root. I once had a coaching client who barely spoke in the first few sessions. He answered in short phrases, careful not to reveal too much. I didn’t force him to talk. Instead, I nurtured the conversation, just like a gardener cares for a seed. I asked open-ended questions, gave him space, and reassured him that there was no rush. And one day, he started talking. He shared what was truly bothering him, and from that moment on, our conversations flourished. It reminded me that trust isn’t built overnight. It grows when given the right environment—patience, care, and understanding.

  A river doesn’t force its way through a mountain—it carves its path over time, with patience and persistence. That’s exactly how trust builds in coaching conversations. I remember a colleague at one of my previous workplaces who rarely spoke about personal matters. Every conversation was surface-level, guarded. I never pushed. Instead, I simply showed up—listening, sharing, and being present. One day, unexpectedly, he started opening up. What changed? She knew she wouldn’t be judged. People open up at their own pace. Just as a river flows steadily, trust grows when there’s space to be heard. You don’t need to force it. Just be there, and when they’re ready, they’ll flow into the conversation naturally. I usually tend to practice this by telling my coaching client to just let the conversation take shape on its own and allow the space.

  Have you ever stood in front of a locked door, unsure if you have the right key? That’s exactly how trust works in conversations, especially those of coaching. People don’t just open up because you ask them to. They need to feel safe, heard, and respected. In coaching, I’ve seen this play out many times. A client walks in, guarded and hesitant, unsure if they can truly share what’s on their mind. But the moment they realize I’m not here to judge—just to listen—something shifts. Like a door slightly ajar, they let me in, little by little. The key? Open-ended questions. Instead of asking, “Are you struggling at work?” I ask, “What’s been the biggest challenge for you lately?” It gives them the space to explore their own thoughts, rather than shutting the conversation down with a yes or no. Trust is not demanded; it’s earned. And the right words—like the right key—can make all the difference.

  As Women's Day approaches, I find myself reflecting on the profound stories of resilience and strength that shape our society. Recently, I was deeply moved by a speech from Mrs. Smriti Irani, Actress and Former Minister of Women and Child Development, Indian Government. In her address, she recounted the hardships faced by her mother, herself, and her two sisters. They were compelled to leave their home because her mother couldn't bear a male child—a stark reminder of the deep-seated gender biases that have plagued our culture. Mrs. Irani's narrative is not just a personal account but a reflection of the challenges many women have endured. It prompts me to question: Despite our celebrations of Women's Day, have we truly eradicated these biases from our hearts and society? While such incidents might seem like relics of the past, I wonder if, in certain corners of our world, girls are still made to feel inferior, their potential unfairly measured against that of boys. ...

The other day, I was talking to my husband about how different school was when we were kids. Back then, teachers weren’t just authority figures—they were almost untouchable. We respected them, but there was also a sense of fear, a rigid boundary between us and them. You didn’t question a teacher, you followed instructions, and education was largely about memorization rather than understanding. But now, when I look at my child’s experience in school, it’s a completely different world. Teachers today are warm, approachable, and deeply invested in a child’s emotional well-being. Many of them feel like second mothers and fathers, offering support beyond academics. They encourage curiosity, creativity, and dialogue. Education itself has shifted—rote learning is being replaced with interactive methods that make concepts come alive. This shift makes me wonder about its impact on a child’s developing mind. Respect for teachers used to stem from a sense of authority, but now it comes from admir...

Many times in a coaching journey, I see a familiar look on my coachee’s face—the unspoken “Why is my coach telling me to take action?” They hear me say that certain actions will need to be taken, that we’ll evaluate them each time we meet—maybe once a fortnight, maybe once a month. And they wonder, Why? Won’t change just happen on its own? And honestly? They’re not wrong. Change will happen. Life moves forward, things shift, and we evolve—whether we plan for it or not. But here’s the thing: when you take action with intention, when you make purposeful choices instead of waiting for change to unfold on its own, you take control of your direction. That’s when you tap into your personal power—your ability to shape the outcome, rather than just being carried along by it. I often hear, “It will happen anyway.” Yes, it will. But wouldn’t you rather be the one steering the ship instead of drifting wherever the waves take you? Change is inevitable, but purposeful change is a choice. This doesn...

There is something magical about the space that forms in a coaching session. It’s not something tangible, yet the shift is almost immediate. A client walks in, sometimes guarded, sometimes unsure. And then, in what feels like an instant, the space transforms—trust takes root, and vulnerability follows. I’ve had so many moments where clients tell me, “I have never shared this with anyone before.” The first time it happened, I was taken aback. Now, I see it happen so often that I’ve come to deeply respect the power of coaching. There is something in the process, in the presence, in the way we hold space as coaches, that creates an environment where people feel seen, heard, and safe. It’s an honor, truly, to be the person on the other side of that conversation. To be trusted with thoughts, emotions, and stories that have been locked away for years. To witness the moment a realization dawns or the weight of long-held emotions finally lifts. It’s not just about asking the right questions; i...

  Ever noticed how tasks feel easier when you have a friend by your side? Science backs this up! A fascinating 2008 study from the University of Virginia explored this concept using a simple yet powerful experiment. Participants were asked to estimate the steepness of a hill, first alone and then with a friend standing next to them. The results? When people stood alone, they perceived the hill as steeper and more challenging. But with a friend by their side, the hill appeared less daunting. The longer they had known their friend, the less steep the hill seemed! ( https://uvamagazine.org/articles/jack_needs_jill_to_get_up_the_hill ) This study highlights an essential truth—having social support alters our perception of difficulty. It’s not just about emotional encouragement; our brain literally sees the challenge differently when we’re not facing it alone. No wonder workplace collaboration is such a game-changer! Working with colleagues whom you are comfortable with—those who ha...

For the longest time, I believed happiness was about personal achievements—hitting career milestones, buying things I loved, or having free time to relax. While these brought temporary joy, something always felt missing. Over time, I realized that the deepest, most lasting happiness comes from finding a purpose and using it to serve others. Purpose isn’t just about passion. It’s about impact. It’s that feeling of knowing that what you do makes a difference. When you align your skills, talents, and values with something larger than yourself, happiness takes on a different meaning. It stops being fleeting and becomes a steady presence in your life. Think of doctors who dedicate themselves to healing, teachers who shape young minds, or artists who inspire with their work. They don’t just do a job; they fulfill a purpose that improves the lives of others. And in return, they feel a profound sense of joy and fulfillment. I have seen this shift happen in people around me. A friend who tra...

I recently came across this quote by Daniel Gilbert (American social psychologist and writer): "We assume that what we feel as we imagine the future is what we’ll feel when we get there. But, in fact, what we feel as we imagine the future is often a response to what’s happening in the present." It made me pause. Oh yes, we all do this so often! We think about an upcoming event—a big presentation, a career change, a life milestone—and we already decide how we’ll feel about it. If we’re anxious today, we assume the future will be just as overwhelming. If we’re excited, we picture only success. But is that really how things work? It’s like standing on a hill, looking at a distant city. On a foggy day, the city looks gloomy and unclear. On a bright, sunny day, the same city appears warm and inviting. The city itself hasn’t changed—only the way we see it has. Similarly, when we imagine the future, we aren’t predicting reality; we are filtering it through our present emotions ...

I thought traveling with my child would be smooth—fun, even. I imagined picturesque moments, laughter, and seamless transitions. But reality? It was difficult . We don’t travel often, and when we did, my child wasn’t used to new places, new faces, or a shift from her familiar world. She withdrew, cried, threw tantrums. At first, I felt irritated, even embarrassed. I wanted this trip to be a break for me, but instead, I was navigating meltdowns in an unfamiliar setting. Yet, something shifted. Instead of holding onto frustration, I saw things through her eyes. Her world is built on routine—her grandparents, her school, her safe little bubble. Suddenly, she was in a different place with different people, and it was overwhelming. So, I adjusted. I found ways to make the trip enjoyable for her, offering little moments of familiarity amidst the newness. I carved out time just for her—watching her delight in a playground, get mesmerized by the waves by the beach, and find her rhythm in...

 I  was having a conversation with someone who admitted, “I procrastinate. I just don’t take action.” They told me they wait for the right time—the time when they can dedicate hours to a task and complete it in one go. If they don’t have enough time, they’d rather not start at all. I asked them, “But what happens when life puts a full platter in front of you? You can’t eat it all at once, right?” That made them pause. “Then what would you do?” I continued. “Wouldn’t it be better to take one bite at a time?” That’s the key—just begin. Start small and digest it piece by piece. Change your surroundings one step at a time. Tackle a project by breaking it into sections. If you want to build a habit, start with five minutes a day instead of waiting for the perfect schedule. I could see the shift in their perspective. The weight of the task wasn’t the problem—it was the mindset of all-or-nothing. Taking smaller steps makes any challenge feel manageable. By the end of our...

In coaching conversations, I often see clients caught in the same struggles for months, sometimes even years. When I ask, “Why didn’t you reach out earlier?” the answers vary—fear, uncertainty, or simply the hope that things would get better on their own. But the reality is, by choosing not to act, they were still making a choice. I’ve seen this happen when coachees hesitate to seek help from their coach or manager. They had opportunities to address their challenges, yet they stayed silent. Now, when their performance is questioned, they feel stuck—helpless, even. But the truth is, their inaction was a decision too. Often, people assume that avoiding a decision will keep them safe from discomfort or failure. But in reality, inaction has its own consequences. Delaying action only makes problems bigger, opportunities slip away, and confidence erode. The fear of making the wrong choice sometimes leads to no choice at all—but that in itself is a decision with lasting impact. Recog...

Any employer, no matter the industry, looks for two key qualities: the attitude to learn and the ability to develop expertise over time. You cannot rely on just one and expect to thrive. A learning attitude is not just for freshers—it’s equally critical for those advancing in their careers and even leaders at the top. The willingness to adapt, unlearn, and relearn is what keeps professionals relevant. However, having a great attitude alone isn’t enough. At some point, employers expect tangible results—proof that you’ve applied your learning to develop expertise. After all, what can a company do with someone who is eager but lacks the skills to execute? Likewise, expertise without a growth mindset leads to stagnation. Success lies in the balance: stay curious, keep learning, and master your craft. When you combine the right attitude with developed expertise, you don’t just grow—you become invaluable.

  There’s a saying in Hindi: “Har Sher ko ek Sava Sher milta hai,” meaning every lion meets one who is stronger. This phrase has stuck with me because I’ve witnessed its truth in real-life situations. It reminds me of the fine line between confidence and overconfidence. Confidence gives you the courage to tackle challenges, but overconfidence blinds you to realities. I’ve seen overconfident individuals make quick, miscalculated judgments, leading to avoidable mistakes. They underestimated the situation, believing their approach was infallible. What I’ve learned is this: approach every situation with humility and level-headedness. Confidence should be rooted in awareness—of your strengths, yes, but also of the complexities and unknowns. Staying grounded doesn’t make you less capable; it makes you wiser. After all, even the strongest lion must respect the strength of another. So, lead with confidence, but let humility guide your steps.

  In a recent coaching conversation, we delved into the topic of taking credit for one’s work. My coachee—a talented professional—was struggling with this. He often downplayed his contributions or framed his achievements as “something the team did together.” While collaboration is important, I could see that his hesitation to own his impact was holding him back. I asked him, “What are you hesitant about when it comes to taking credit for what you’ve accomplished? What are you afraid of?” After some reflection, he admitted that he didn’t want to come across as arrogant or overshadow his team. But we both knew that by avoiding acknowledgment, he was diluting his voice and value. Do not dilute your message by saying we just to show you are a team player. By the end of the session, he committed to one action: the next time he presented results, he would confidently own his role in driving them. In our follow-up session, his feedback was striking. This small change became a game...

It wasn’t always easy for me to say no. I used to agree to things like dinners with friends, extra tasks at work, just to avoid disappointing others, it even reflected similarly with personal life. But over time, I realized that constantly putting others first left me exhausted and disconnected from what mattered most to me. Learning to communicate boundaries didn’t come naturally, but as I’m learning it and have tried it, it changed everything. One of the hardest lessons was saying no to my friends. I remember a time when I’d be juggling work and family, yet still feel guilty for declining plans. I’d think, “What if they feel I don’t care?” But I learned that honesty is the foundation of any relationship. Saying, “I’d love to join, but I need to spend time with my family today. Let’s plan for another time,” made all the difference. My friends understood because I was clear and genuine. At work, the challenge was different. Admitting “I don’t know” used to feel like failure, as thou...

  They say we must stop sacrificing ourselves for others. Today’s youth seem to understand this well and often practice it effectively in their personal lives, especially with family. They confidently share their likes and dislikes, creating space for themselves. But at workplaces, it’s a different story. Many new joiners or early-career professionals struggle to set boundaries. Overwork is often glorified, sold as the fast track to success. While it might lead to quick promotions, the cost becomes clear over time—burnout. Once the steam runs out, they find themselves yearning for balance, for time to recharge, and for meaningful connections with family and friends. By the time they recognize this, setting boundaries feels daunting. How do you redefine expectations with colleagues or seniors who are accustomed to your over-availability? The process may feel awkward at first, but it’s essential to protect your well-being and sustain long-term success. 3 Practical Tips to Set H...

  Ever since I did the Positive Quotient (PQ) Program of Shirzad Chamine, with my supportive cohort members Antony, Nidhi, Kulshum, I am glad to say it has made me see life differently. And what’s that difference? I would take this space to explain that. For me, being a restless soul and a high achiever, which Shirzad says are two of the many saboteurs we carry within us, it is usually difficult to be without something or the other to do. That is, I need to be occupied, and I feel the need to be achieving results. That is good. But you may have also heard that anything of good in excess is also unhealthy. So coming back to how the PQ program made a difference. Earlier any time I would be sitting without doing anything, it would make my mind wander aimlessly, would then start making me think what can I do, can I read something, listen to something on my phone, put a podcast. My time use was on my mind. Of course! No doubt time is money, but so is health and sanity. I now realise tha...

  I’ve been asked many a times about this ever lasting curiosity I have to know new things, to learn, to keep writing my blogs. I’ve been asked about how I learn new courses, I study at an age where I should focus on my kid studying. When I did my PhD also, during the study and much after it, even today, I have been getting questions about what made me do it. What’s with this curiosity and thirst for knowledge! Yes I am a curious soul and I love to know new things in my sphere of knowledge. I think if one does not upgrade himself, the person’s brain rust. Simple: Education makes man more of a human, a a much better one than when he is not. My PhD topic, the Learning Organisation also means continual learning and not believing that learning is a destination or a goal. When you learn, you learn to open your mind to new ideas. You get to know what’s stored in other people’s brain. There is a sea of fresh data out there. I read it that Albert Einstein once said that the intuitive min...

  That’s so me at the end of the day. That is how the energy is. That is how any pending task feels. Its okay. I sense it’s the same for others. But does that mean that the day has not been full of meaning? Oh no. I love what I do. It tires me for good. And when I get tired, that means I have worked hard man! I’ve worked very hard to make my goals see the light of the day. Physically tired, but mentally proud is how I feel. Sleeping with that mindset brings me new hope to wake up and show up the next day too. So to all the folks who are low today, feel drained off their energy, feel like it’s a burden to do that one more, last task of the day. Its okay. It means you have done what should be done and it has tired you. It means that your mental and physical energies have been occupied productively. It means that you have done your bit in the waking hours of your day. You don’t deserve to beat yourself. You deserve to be proud.

  I’d be honest in stating I’m struggling. In what? In sorting the endless tasks, I have put up for myself in life, and the journey I have set out to have. I have my family, my work, my learning, my routine tasks and myself as an individual to attend to. I often get to hear from my coachee’s during a coaching conversation the similar struggle. And its but natural to feel overwhelmed. Its but natural to not feel at peace and calm when you have multiple things to attend to. A usual coaching conversation also states that at such times, they procrastinate, that is postponing tasks till the need to do it becomes dire. Isn’t that too so obvious. I mean when we are overwhelmed, we generally don’t know where to begin from. So just wait for the right time, right setting, right people to be with you, right support mechanism, right frame of mind. Just the ‘right’ of everything. Who knows when ‘right’ will come. But hope is there that it will. But then there is a catch, the moment which is ‘...

  Anxiety often feels like a vague cloud, hard to pinpoint but impossible to ignore. To work through it, the first step is identifying and naming the emotions hiding within it. Emotions are like signals—each one carries a message. Is the anxiety rooted in fear of failure, uncertainty, or the weight of unmet expectations? By pausing and asking, “What exactly am I feeling?” and describing it—tightness in the chest, a racing mind—you gain clarity. Naming emotions transforms them from overwhelming forces to manageable experiences, empowering you to address their cause and regain control over your inner world. True empowerment comes not from avoiding discomfort but from embracing its lessons.   Here’s a starting point with coaching questions around emotional exploration and emotional intelligence for growth. As an example I have called out a dialogue which would be possibly with anxiety as a emotion. A dialogue to explore this would look like: What emotion are you f...

  In my coaching practice, I encourage clients to explore their emotions with curiosity rather than judgment. When a challenging project triggers stress, we reflect on the root cause—is it fear of failure? Lack of clarity?—and what actions can transform that stress into constructive momentum.   Recognizing that emotions are guideposts builds emotional intelligence and resilience. The next time you feel discomfort, pause and ask yourself: What message does this emotion carry? When we learn to listen, even our hardest emotions become allies on the path to growth.   The Power of Recognizing Discomfort and being vulnerable in coaching sessions can create transformational shifts. Let me dive into this hypothetical example. James, a mid-level manager in a fast-paced tech company, felt increasingly frustrated with his team’s performance. Weekly meetings left him drained, and he was snapping at colleagues. In our coaching session, I asked, “What’s the dominant emotion in thos...

 Have you ever felt a pang of discomfort and wished it away, only to later realize that the very feeling was your greatest teacher? In coaching, we often talk about resilience, self-awareness, and emotional agility, but the first step is learning to embrace every emotion, including those that feel unpleasant.  The truth is: Not every emotion that feels bad is bad.   I was attending a coaching demonstration, during which I was asked to share my observations on what went well and what could be improved. The session was taken by an MCC coach where contracting and agreement was done wonderfully.   For the purpose of the demo, we stopped the session there. Yet by the end of the session, on being asked if I could do something differently what would that be, I ruminated over this. The client had a fair idea about her goal and the deep dive was done by the coach’s questions. However, the underlying emotions behind the transition which the client was experiencing, the anx...

  As the first few days of 2025 unfold, I paused to reflect and asked myself, “What has truly changed?” The answer came swiftly: it’s not just the date. A sense of joy and abundance has taken root in my heart, fueled by gratitude for the opportunities this year brings. Gratitude, I’ve found, is a powerful force—drawing more reasons to be thankful and savor life’s pleasures.   In past years, my New Year’s resolutions always revolved around learning new things. Curiosity would drive me to create lists of interests and identify sources to expand my knowledge. But 2024 was a year of intense learning, a whirlwind of new insights and growth. This year, I felt compelled to take a different approach.   Instead of chasing new knowledge, my reflections guided me toward *relearning and consolidating*. I realized that at this point in life, I’ve amassed a wealth of experience across industries and worked with people from diverse backgrounds. Human interaction has been at th...