REFLECTION

1. Reflect on your own experience: How have you felt when others have encouraged you to take action when you doubted your strength, or ability in a specific area? Oh, it was so empowering! I know that when I doubt myself - whether it’s being great in a show (or living up to my own expectations of myself!) or getting a job that I wanted - and someone I trust and respect says “You can do this”, it’s like a fire is lit inside of me. It makes me want to go out there and at least try. Not only try, but try my best. It especially resonates when I know I’m good at something, or know that my cheerleader has known me to be good in that particular role before. For example, my singing teacher saying “You can sing the crap out of that part” will be more enthusing to me than someone who’s never seen me perform saying ‘You’ll be great!”

2. What are your top 10 strengths? Wow, this one is tough. 10 strengths! 10! That seems like a lot for some reason. Let’s see:
* Humorous
* Optimistic
* Enthusiastic
* Passionate
* Great listener
* Caring / empathetic
* Supportive
* Down-to-earth
* Driven
* Fun
How do these support you in your development of your coaching practice? As a driven and passionate person, I tend to do whatever the heck I set my mind to, which makes me think I can really, truly create a thriving business from something I love to do. As someone humorous, fun, optimistic and enthusiastic, I’m someone that people like to be around and talk to. Being supportive, caring/empathetic, down-to-earth, and a great listener makes me a friend that people seek out and hold on to. When I lay it out like that, it seems to be a great formula for a life coach!

3. Think of one goal that you will have for the next month. This may be a self-contained goal, or it could be part of something much bigger – like setting up your business! My goal this month is to stick to the action plan I set in place of exercising 2-3 mornings a week, as well as completing 1 module of homework/week.

What structures do you need to put in place to enable you to achieve your goal? I need to actually pay attention to my To Do List / Palm Pilot! I need to also pay attention and find out if this system is working for me and, if not, what will? I also need to assert myself and announce that I’m doing this so I can be held accountable for it.

4. Make a list of five people that you most admire and describe why you like them. What are the attributes that you want to make your own?
Wow again - great question.
* My pre-husband has a quiet calmness to him. He’s able to take what comes, analyze it a bit, and make the most of it. He doesn’t ever play the victim and is able to take things day by day. He’s also a perfectionist that doesn’t need to be perfect all the time. He wants to be able to be proud of whatever he puts his name to, and he cares a great deal about his work (professional and personal projects), but he’s able to put it aside and relax too, doing what makes him happy. It’s tough for me to do that.
* My Mom is so utterly devoted to her family. She has so many pieces to her life but yet family always comes first. I tend to view it as a bit overbearing at times, but deep down I love, appreciate, and cherish it. I can see now how very lucky I am to consider my Mom one of my best friends.
* My boss is someone who always makes herself available, always listens, and always sees two sides to a story. It’s really eye opening to see how she views a situation because, instead of most people who will “side” with the person that came to them to console them, she shows you how and possibly why the other person reacted the way that they did. I would love to remember that day to day.
* My best friend basically cares for her baby herself, works a full time job, and still manages to be a totally selfless person. I wish I had her stamina, her self-control, and the handle she has on her priorities and responsibilities.
* My stepfather is someone who holds his family so, so close. He’s happiest when his entire family is around, and if anyone crosses them they better watch out! He always sees the good in people, too, and isn’t too manly to show his pride or offer love, support, and encouragement.

5. Who is on your support team? Is it big enough? Are there others you need to engage with more to support you in achieving your goals? My support team is huge! My parents and grandparents always told me I could do anything I want to, and supported me when I did (pursuing an acting career, anyone?)! I’ve also had a great circle of friends, but now that I’m a “grown-up” I have really dear, true, loving friends that hold me up no matter what. My pre-husband is the most wonderful, allowing me to cry as well as laugh and always telling me how I amaze him with my drive, determination, and cheery optimism. I feel enthused just thinking about it!