Over the last 4 years my Business Coaching/Consulting Practice has had more requests to support individuals, teams, and businesses with various activities in advancing climate action, clean technologies, and green communities. I am not a scientist or environmentalist, and yet I am inspired to figure things out and take action. It brought up the notion that regardless of our education or experience, we are all climate champions in some form and when we accept this role, we will discover our unique contribution to this worthwhile cause.
What is Business Coaching?
Coaching provides a space for individuals to process ideas and stretch their thinking. It is a supportive and collaborative partnership. Coaching explores topics like personal skill development, work-life balance, handling stress, managing people or projects, and overcoming conflict or career transition. The coaching conversation allows reflection and expansion on important questions about meaning and purpose of the individual in exploring relevant topics. This is the place where visions take shape and declared intentions materialize into new actions scaffolded by accountability structures.
What is Sustainability?
Sustainability means meeting our own needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. In this definition it includes concern and consideration for natural resources, social and economic resources. That these resources are related to, used in a manner so that the resource is not depleted or permanently damaged. Earth becomes the focus as it is where we participate with all resources and by observing the natural environment’s response to our behaviours and choices, we invariably are influenced. Sustainability is a relevant topic that elicits reflection, questions and for some; a stress and overwhelm response.
Bringing the Two Together
Living sustainably is a concept that invites participation, it is not a destination or secured lifestyle. It is not a one size fits all solution and nor is it a place to stand and judge others. Sustainability is a relevant topic that invites processing and collaboration. In a coaching conversation, clients can reflect and ask important questions. Instead of remaining deep in overwhelm and stress, client’s have an opportunity to brainstorm and define new actions that will help shape a future that aligns with their vision. There is an accountability partnership between the client and coach so that taking on a more sustainable approach to life and work does not feel so alone.