You may be your own best success coach. In simplest terms a coach will help you reach for your best.
If you wish to understand how to be the best you can be you must understand how to reach for excellence. That's where it starts. You must have a hunger for excellence … what I like to refer to as an attitude of excellence.
That's why, at least as a starting point, you may be your own best success coach. The desire starts with you. It can't be artificially imported from the outside. The desire, the hunger drives you forward.
By excellence I do not mean perfection. We will not reach that this side of heaven. But we can reach to be our very best, personally and professionally. We can reach for our companies and organizations, our committees and teams to be the best they can be. That reaching is moving forward with an attitude of excellence.
An attitude of excellence is a driving knowledge that we have the capacity to do even better, that we have been created with incredible potential to do better and achieve more than we may have realized or accomplished to this point.
Desire is a starting point. You must desire to be your best. A hunger for excellence is the attitude that precedes action and best begins to put one on the path to success. It is not a hunger that tramps on others to move one’s self forward. It is an attitude that causes you to measure yourself against yourself and your past achievements and improve upon those, daily, monthly, yearly, and consistently.
If a person is not reaching for excellence in what they do, if they do not believe they really can do better and achieve more and be willing to do what’s needed to make it happen, you can be assured they will probably reach a plateau and stay stuck there for the rest of their career … or life.
Men and women with an attitude of excellence are most apt to engage a personal and professional Coach to assist them in understanding themselves and identifying opportunities for moving forward with greater momentum. They want to identify blind spots and make needed adjustments so they can be their best at thinking, carrying out their day to day work and leading others.
Of course, simply having an attitude of excellence isn’t all that is needed to be successful. You need to be clear about where you are going, assemble skills and resources to get there and do the work necessary to realize your desired outcome. You need to realize open doors when they are in front of you and seek to open them when they are not.
But attitude is the driver. An attitude of excellence will keep you moving forward while others are settling for less than what is truly possible. An attitude of excellence will keep you positive when things look like they will never work out. An attitude of excellence will give your thinking and your actions momentum while others languish.
Never underestimate a right attitude. Attitudes of excellence can lift up a whole team and propel them forward. This type of attitude leads to breakthroughs where others see dead ends. It sees problems as one step closer to solutions.
An attitude of excellence does not settle for the status quo. It is attractive, expansive and forward moving. It is simply an attitude lived out, a driving force that has caused men and women throughout the ages to do better, achieve more and thrive.
Adopt this attitude. It has moved forward countless numbers of people who have achieved above and beyond what they originally might have thought they were capable of.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Monday, February 8, 2010
What Are You Capable Of Achieving?
What are you capable of achieving? Have you set goals and met them?
You don’t know what you have the capacity for until you reach for it. You don’t know what you are capable of achieving until you must or you choose to reach for it.
We all know people, who against great odds have done some pretty incredible things. Sometimes adversity created a context that meant they either reached for ‘the impossible’ or collapsed. Other times it was a conviction that they could reach some hitherto unattainable goal that drove them forward.
The point is, you just don’t know what you are capable of.
There are, however, some things we do know.
When you achieve it, who knows what else you might actually be capable of. Maybe way, way beyond your previously small thinking.
So, what are you capable of? You don’t know. And I don’t know. But I can predict that you are capable of achieving far more than you currently think you can.
You don’t know what you have the capacity for until you reach for it. You don’t know what you are capable of achieving until you must or you choose to reach for it.
We all know people, who against great odds have done some pretty incredible things. Sometimes adversity created a context that meant they either reached for ‘the impossible’ or collapsed. Other times it was a conviction that they could reach some hitherto unattainable goal that drove them forward.
The point is, you just don’t know what you are capable of.
There are, however, some things we do know.
- You are capable of more than you think you are. If you are able to think, “I could never do it” then you are capable of thinking, “Maybe I can go a lot farther toward doing it than I previously thought.”
- If you don’t even try it is a ‘for sure’ that you won’t achieve it. In fact if you don’t try, you won’t achieve anything.
- If you do try, you will have the satisfaction, whether or not you ever achieve it, of having given it your best shot.
- Every small step achieved builds confidence. It provides proof that you can if you try. One step builds on another and leads to success.
When you achieve it, who knows what else you might actually be capable of. Maybe way, way beyond your previously small thinking.
So, what are you capable of? You don’t know. And I don’t know. But I can predict that you are capable of achieving far more than you currently think you can.
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Christian Leaders - Before Helping in Haiti
I thought this article by Pam Taylor really spelled out pretty well, some of the things we Christian leaders need to keep in mind before helping in Haiti. It's a timely reminder of what we all need when wanting to assist others.
For the Love of Haiti
Armchair quarterbacks try to come up with the answers for how to make things work in the rescue efforts in Haiti, following the earthquake. “Why don’t they just…” is often heard wherever people gather. It is all said in an effort to try to find solutions for the daily images of pain and suffering we see broadcast by the media. We are a nation that wants to help. But without knowledge of the culture and the way it functions, our hands are tied and there are bottlenecks preventing or slowing down help getting to the people its intended for.
It is difficult to understand why the help Haiti needs is not readily available in their country already…or why they can’t just google Amazon and have it delivered right to their door.
Even in the best of times, Haiti does not have the resources that we have learned to take for granted. Could it be that at least some of the problems come from confusion caused from trying to “help” Haiti through the filter of our own North American cultural mindset and habits? If that were indeed true, and I believe that it is, what can we do?
A Haitian doctor expressed sincere gratefulness on a news segment, but he then said, “But, this is our country. Don’t tell us what we have to do.” He is a doctor. An educated man. Are you wondering why he said that?
I have been a missionary to Haiti. Was it easy? NO! Not at all. It was indeed a great culture shock. I was, however, fascinated with their culture and with the strength of the people. My own faith seemed puny compared to the faith of the Christian Haitians I came to know and love. I was grateful for their patient perseverance as they taught me how to survive in their land. The nights were eerie with the sounds of the voodoo drums and the dogs howling in response to the evil that was being called forth. It is a place where faith and character are stretched.
So following this earthquake disaster, what can we do to help the people of Haiti the way they want to be helped?
Before anything, we must pray. Pray for wisdom, for cultural understanding, for a peaceful spirit, and a kind heart. Pray for humility. Then, before you dive in:
1. Ask them. Then listen and say it back to be sure you really understand. This is basic to any relationship. Ask what they want. Ask what they need. Ask how soon they need it. Ask what part of it they want you to do. Ask if they have ideas how it can be provided in a way that would be helpful to them…maybe by providing work for them or by providing income for their country. Remember that we don’t know what we don’t know. And they can tell us what we don’t know.
2. Ask about cultural sensitivities. In our zest to meet the immediate needs, we don’t want our help to be perceived as interference, and we want it to be helpful long term, so cultural awareness is a necessity. We mustn’t think we already know. The why is an important aspect that is sometimes overlooked. No matter what previous experience you have had with disasters, all new disasters are unique. Go with fresh eyes and open ears.
3. Listen to them. They had an earthquake. They have great need. Some have never been poor. They have been among the elite and they don’t know how to cope. And many others have been poor for a very long time. This earthquake has compounded their problems, but it does not mean that they should have to sacrifice dignity and honor. All people are empowered and excel when they are treated with respect. We have two ears and one mouth. Perhaps the Creator wanted us to listen with a non-judgmental heart to those in need, twice as much as we speak.
4. Pray for the ongoing, ever-changing wisdom that is needed. It’s all about being the hands and feet of Jesus. If we keep asking Him, “What would YOU do, Jesus? Give me YOUR heart,” He will answer with a smile!
Pam Taylor is a freelance writer, Biblical lay counselor and life coach. Her passion is to help others discover their God-given strengths and invest them fully for His Glory. A former missionary in third world countries and a homeschooling mom, she understands the hidden desires of a woman called into the service of her Lord. You can reach her at www.loavesandfishescoaching.com
For the Love of Haiti
Armchair quarterbacks try to come up with the answers for how to make things work in the rescue efforts in Haiti, following the earthquake. “Why don’t they just…” is often heard wherever people gather. It is all said in an effort to try to find solutions for the daily images of pain and suffering we see broadcast by the media. We are a nation that wants to help. But without knowledge of the culture and the way it functions, our hands are tied and there are bottlenecks preventing or slowing down help getting to the people its intended for.
It is difficult to understand why the help Haiti needs is not readily available in their country already…or why they can’t just google Amazon and have it delivered right to their door.
Even in the best of times, Haiti does not have the resources that we have learned to take for granted. Could it be that at least some of the problems come from confusion caused from trying to “help” Haiti through the filter of our own North American cultural mindset and habits? If that were indeed true, and I believe that it is, what can we do?
A Haitian doctor expressed sincere gratefulness on a news segment, but he then said, “But, this is our country. Don’t tell us what we have to do.” He is a doctor. An educated man. Are you wondering why he said that?
I have been a missionary to Haiti. Was it easy? NO! Not at all. It was indeed a great culture shock. I was, however, fascinated with their culture and with the strength of the people. My own faith seemed puny compared to the faith of the Christian Haitians I came to know and love. I was grateful for their patient perseverance as they taught me how to survive in their land. The nights were eerie with the sounds of the voodoo drums and the dogs howling in response to the evil that was being called forth. It is a place where faith and character are stretched.
So following this earthquake disaster, what can we do to help the people of Haiti the way they want to be helped?
Before anything, we must pray. Pray for wisdom, for cultural understanding, for a peaceful spirit, and a kind heart. Pray for humility. Then, before you dive in:
1. Ask them. Then listen and say it back to be sure you really understand. This is basic to any relationship. Ask what they want. Ask what they need. Ask how soon they need it. Ask what part of it they want you to do. Ask if they have ideas how it can be provided in a way that would be helpful to them…maybe by providing work for them or by providing income for their country. Remember that we don’t know what we don’t know. And they can tell us what we don’t know.
2. Ask about cultural sensitivities. In our zest to meet the immediate needs, we don’t want our help to be perceived as interference, and we want it to be helpful long term, so cultural awareness is a necessity. We mustn’t think we already know. The why is an important aspect that is sometimes overlooked. No matter what previous experience you have had with disasters, all new disasters are unique. Go with fresh eyes and open ears.
3. Listen to them. They had an earthquake. They have great need. Some have never been poor. They have been among the elite and they don’t know how to cope. And many others have been poor for a very long time. This earthquake has compounded their problems, but it does not mean that they should have to sacrifice dignity and honor. All people are empowered and excel when they are treated with respect. We have two ears and one mouth. Perhaps the Creator wanted us to listen with a non-judgmental heart to those in need, twice as much as we speak.
4. Pray for the ongoing, ever-changing wisdom that is needed. It’s all about being the hands and feet of Jesus. If we keep asking Him, “What would YOU do, Jesus? Give me YOUR heart,” He will answer with a smile!
Pam Taylor is a freelance writer, Biblical lay counselor and life coach. Her passion is to help others discover their God-given strengths and invest them fully for His Glory. A former missionary in third world countries and a homeschooling mom, she understands the hidden desires of a woman called into the service of her Lord. You can reach her at www.loavesandfishescoaching.com
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Executive Coach, Gary Wood Assumes Leadership of Christian Coaches Network
PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
CONTACT:
Gary Wood, President and Director
Christian Coaches Network
705.687.2711
gary@christiancoaches.com
www.christiancoaches.com
The largest public search platform worldwide that is devoted entirely to finding professional Christian coaches has changed leadership.
On February 1, 2010, Executive Coach, Gary Wood assumed leadership of the Christian Coaches Network from founder Judy Santos, who has provided vision and direction to the organization for the last 12 years.
She says of her choice of Gary Wood as successor, “He has been on the CCN Advisory Board since it’s inception in 1998. I have worked with him on various projects, taught with him and appreciated his wisdom and friendship over the last twelve years. I pass the torch to him with confidence and a sense of peace that this is a change that was orchestrated by God.”
Currently Christian Coaches Network supports hundreds of professional coaches from 11 countries and a broad spectrum of life experience, professional background, expertise and denominational affiliation.
Individuals or organizations who are searching for a professional coach can now find CCN members who represent almost every area of personal, business or ministry specialty, ranging from life, relationship and marriage coaching to career, leadership and executive coaching.
CCN provides support, connection and professional development opportunities to members. This is supported by three levels of recognized certification within the Christian coaching field.
CCN’s new Director, Gary Wood is a professionally credentialed coach who has more than 35 years business and ministry experience. Since 1998, through his executive coaching firm G.E.Wood and Associates, Gary has worked with an international clientele of corporate, government, business and nonprofit leaders.
In recently addressing member coaches, Gary said of his additional role, “I may assume the public face of CCN but I am far from the total substance. Together we make the whole. The very fact that CCN continues forward bears out the fact that God has plans … plans that include each one of us.”
ABOUT – To learn more about Christian Coaches Network and its membership services or to search for a professional Christian coach, visit their website at www.christiancoaches.com.
END
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
CONTACT:
Gary Wood, President and Director
Christian Coaches Network
705.687.2711
gary@christiancoaches.com
www.christiancoaches.com
The largest public search platform worldwide that is devoted entirely to finding professional Christian coaches has changed leadership.
On February 1, 2010, Executive Coach, Gary Wood assumed leadership of the Christian Coaches Network from founder Judy Santos, who has provided vision and direction to the organization for the last 12 years.
She says of her choice of Gary Wood as successor, “He has been on the CCN Advisory Board since it’s inception in 1998. I have worked with him on various projects, taught with him and appreciated his wisdom and friendship over the last twelve years. I pass the torch to him with confidence and a sense of peace that this is a change that was orchestrated by God.”
Currently Christian Coaches Network supports hundreds of professional coaches from 11 countries and a broad spectrum of life experience, professional background, expertise and denominational affiliation.
Individuals or organizations who are searching for a professional coach can now find CCN members who represent almost every area of personal, business or ministry specialty, ranging from life, relationship and marriage coaching to career, leadership and executive coaching.
CCN provides support, connection and professional development opportunities to members. This is supported by three levels of recognized certification within the Christian coaching field.
CCN’s new Director, Gary Wood is a professionally credentialed coach who has more than 35 years business and ministry experience. Since 1998, through his executive coaching firm G.E.Wood and Associates, Gary has worked with an international clientele of corporate, government, business and nonprofit leaders.
In recently addressing member coaches, Gary said of his additional role, “I may assume the public face of CCN but I am far from the total substance. Together we make the whole. The very fact that CCN continues forward bears out the fact that God has plans … plans that include each one of us.”
ABOUT – To learn more about Christian Coaches Network and its membership services or to search for a professional Christian coach, visit their website at www.christiancoaches.com.
END
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)