Despite the danger of this blog turning into a daily review of the Pewsey Vale weather, which would be typically British and repetitive, it was another beautiful morning to be driving. Just me and the recently retired Fiat on the short drive to The Parade in Marlborough.
‘Buy whiteboard markers’ wasn’t on my mind as I recapped my plans for the two sports psychology coaching sessions I was giving this morning.
‘Ask open questions and listen more than you talk,’ I reminded myself. ‘And most importantly, be specific.’ I find it an unnecessary distraction when someone uses a knitting metaphor, for example, when the topic is dog training. I instantly tune out of the conversation.
There was a nip in the air as I walked the short distance from the car to The Parade. I used this venue in the summer for my 1-2-1s because it was outside, undercover and had a warm, friendly and relaxed atmosphere. I wondered if it would be a bit chilly this morning. Still, my first client was young and fit. A slight nip in the air wouldn’t affect him.
It wasn’t long before the sun was shining brightly right into my client’s eyes.
“Do you want to move seats?” I suggested, as it was clearly becoming a distraction.
“No, I’m fine,” he squinted.
With my open questioning technique and the sun glaring, this session was becoming more of an interrogation.
Despite the solar challenges, we had a productive session. I often feel that I benefit as much from coaching others as I hope they get from me. I certainly did today. In fact, I felt so motivated that I was impatient to pick up my table tennis bat and get practising.
‘Buy whiteboard markers’ was not on my mind as I wrapped up the second coaching session, shut my laptop and said my goodbyes. I was off home, keen to get practising.
I always say it’s best to strike while the needle’s hot. Please don’t tell the dog trainers.
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