Hello, and welcome to my first Blog post in many years. Yes,…. It’s been awhile, and here I am, with my hands on the keyboard, thinking about where I’m at, what I’m experiencing in my life right now, and so am considering, once again, what is worth sharing with you. Truthfully, it’s a bit daunting, and I need to remind myself that if reading this post has a positive impact on only one person, then it’s worth it. So, I invite you to read on, enjoy, and take away what makes sense for you.
Improv and Risk – what’s that about?
I’ve recently enrolled in an “Improv for Coaches” program with BNA Mentor Coaches https://bnamentorcoaching.com/ and have also pulled a book of my bookshelf that I’m re-reading titled Improv Wisdom by Patricia Ryan Madson.
As I reflect on what I’m learning, noticing and being reminded of, I wanted to share some of that with you.
Good Enough – Shift focus to hopeful and willing to try
I’ve been thinking about writing again for awhile: investigated Substack with a colleague who is using it (thank you Carla https://canadianwomeninprosports.substack.com/?utm_source=discover_search); talked to a few people about their thoughts on what’s of interest and how they access information; and had some coaching (thank you Mary Ann https://creativeforce-consulting.com/about-me/) about the idea. I’ve been putting it off, not sure I want to do it, not sure it’s worth it for me, or for you, and just generally worried and scared. Not emotions that are a lot of fun! So, as I read the chapter today on “being average”, it made me smile. What is holding me back? I am not a perfectionist, never have been, and yet I do struggle with wanting things to be good – actually very good. And I know, in working with many coaching clients, that the perfectionist trap is a common one.
I had started to write a post about taking risks (and have been procrastinating and overthinking it!) and so today the themes of risk are being challenged by the themes of improv and here I am writing. I am an optimist, and so while feeling worried and scared as I write, I also feel hopeful and willing to try.
Just Show Up – You are amazing!
Taking risks means making changes, and improv reminds us there are “no mistakes, only happy accidents”. Sometimes we can plan for change, and yet, with all the best planning and preparation in the world, life is unpredictable and there is risk. And so, we look to another improv principle which is “don’t prepare, just show up”. We make some plans and then remember to notice and honour what we know about ourselves, other people, and the world around us. You bring skills, knowledge, experience, perspectives, heart and caring to the world – trust it. Notice what you’re good at, think about what people come to you for, and be aware of where you feel the most comfortable and engaged. It’s also about noticing what others are doing and saying, truly listening and paying attention to what’s going on around you and taking that in, and adapting, as you move forward. The world is chaotic, plans are a wonderful idea…until they’re not, and you bring awesome and unique skills to the world. You are able to adapt and pivot (apologies, I appreciate that word can be annoying 😊). You’ve got this! So show up!
Say YES – Do something – Take action (and yes, small steps count!)
How many times do you say, or do you hear others say “yes, but”? That statement is waaaaay to common and needs to switch to first – simply “yes”, and then if you want to add a qualifier add the word “and”. Bottom line – focus on the yes.
Ok so here are some questions for you to consider:
….. and after each idea – remember “Yes and…”
- What is possible?
- What really matters?
- What could you try?
- What small steps are a start?
- What alternatives are feasible?
- Who/what is impacted?
- What prep and planning do you need (and remember, plans will likely shift so be ready)?
- Who’s your support?
- What are you learning?
And remind yourself again – what is possible and the positive difference you are making!
As a Leadership and Transition Coach, I love working with people to support them as they find their way, try new things, take some risks and show up to be the best they can be. Feel free to connect if you are thinking a coach i.e., a thinking partner, is something that may benefit your journey.
Take good care! 😊
