Achieve Results Through Personalized Learning and Application
I once returned to a physical therapy facility, assuming that the same approach that healed my previous injury would work for a new problem. However, the therapist relied heavily on the same techniques, which not only failed to help but actually exacerbated my condition. Fortunately, my doctor referred me to a therapist specialized in treating my new condition, leading to a full recovery.
This experience taught me valuable insights into professional and personal growth: accomplishing results requires personalized learning and application.
To achieve progress, we need to adapt general principles to our unique circumstances. Here are some key factors to consider:
Your unique story: It's your story to tell, not anyone else's. However, external influences can shape how we perceive and narrate our experiences. Be mindful of external influences that might impact how you tell your story, both to yourself and others.
Shifting priorities: While core values might remain constant, your priorities evolve throughout life. This applies both individually and professionally, where market trends and organizational directions necessitate adjustments.
Embrace your unique potential: Each person has a unique blend of strengths and weaknesses, and our "comfort zone" varies greatly. What challenges one person might come easily to another. The factors holding you back are likely unique to you, so focus on identifying and addressing those specific challenges.
The power of your ecosystem: Your environment, including colleagues, organizations, loved ones, and even childhood influences, plays a significant role in shaping your growth. Be aware of both positive and negative influences that might be impacting your choices and actions.
By designing personalized actions, we can expect to:
Feel confident in our own stories that highlight our strengths and motivations, and instill confidence in others about us.
Recognize our unique strengths and in others, to build stronger collaboration and also challenge each other to step out of our comfort zones.
Gain clarity on the optimal actions for ourselves and our organization.
Dare to admit mistakes, ask for help, and make tough decisions.
Build stronger trust and relationships, and advocate for ourselves and those we lead.
Manage setbacks and adapt swiftly by utilizing internal and external resources.
See new possibilities and thrive beyond our goals.
Just like the therapist needed to adapt their approach to my specific injury, my coaching journey taught me that the same applies to coaching. When I was in coach training, I learned a lot of tools and was excited to try them out in different coaching sessions. Soon I learned that not every tool was applicable in seemingly similar situations because the clients were different. As I gained more experience through trial and error, I was able to shift my coaching to focus on the person by applying relevant tools, rather than dumping the entire toolbox on them.
There's no 'one-size-fits-all' approach to growth. We need to tailor our actions to our unique needs and circumstances to truly thrive.
To explore how you can personally practice career management principles like this, schedule a complementary call to evaluate if coaching can accelerate your results.
