“Help the world by leaving a trail of who you are.”

Image from Unsplash by Universal Eye

A few weeks ago, I was taking my daily walk and my cellphone rang. My natural reaction is always to look at the screen to see if it is a family member or someone I know. The call was from a location in Wisconsin where my son lives and yet the number was unfamiliar. My gut somehow had me take the call.

The woman on the line began her comments “You probably don’t remember me but about 20 years ago you spoke to me about coaching. Our conversation made such an impression, I chose to pursue this as my career as well.”

Although we never engaged in a formal relationship, somehow this initial genuine conversation had altered her entire career trajectory.

For many coaches, coaching is not just we do, it’s who we are. Our daily efforts do not always leave an obvious trail and yet we are all called to keep walking this path to bring out the best in others.

EXERCISE:

How are you walking your own authentic path intending to help and serve others?

What are some of the visible and hidden trails you have pioneered through your efforts?

“Our authenticity is tied to what is de-pressed and what is ex-pressed.”

—Mark Nepo, Author of The Book of Awakening

Image from Unsplash by Benjamin Williams

If you are a consistent reader of The Quotable Coach you know by now that I am a big fan of Mark Nepo. As a poet and a student of life he beautifully says things that almost always touch my heart and soul.

I have found his authentic courage to speak his truth to be a doorway to places within me I didn’t even know were locked.

De-pressing many emotions over the years seemed like a good strategy to protect myself and avoid potential judgement and pain I might encounter. My introverted tendencies and living a somewhat quiet life certainly have an upside, however I have discovered that they also incur numerous costs.

A recent blog post by Chip Conley pointed out that self-expression and living out loud as we age is a primary reason for increased happiness.

EXERCISE:

Where are you currently hiding or de-pressing aspects of yourself? How can and will
ex-pressing some of these parts of you lead you toward a more authentic and happier life?

Please consider reading the work of Brené Brown. Her books, The Gifts of Imperfection and Daring Greatly are two of my favorites.