My clients face many challenges in their work. In our coaching, we discuss ways they can alleviate those challenges, change their mindset and turn those challenges into opportunities. For one client, it meant that a coaching conversation on becoming a better communicator turned into a conversation with their boss that lead to a new leadership role in the organization. A challenging workload can turn into an opportunity to grow the team and learn to delegate. A shift in mindset can change the way they perceive being valued at work. Here are some challenges that have come up in coaching recently that may help you with the opportunities you can have.
Challenge: “The work feels overwhelming. I don’t think I can do it. It should be fun and it’s not. I’m nervous about what will happen. I’m doubting myself and my abilities.”
[45 minute coaching call]
Result: This project isn’t a sprint, it’s a marathon and when I look at it that way, I just need to focus on the next steps, do well and be confident. Sometimes I throw myself off when I doubt myself but I’m light years ahead of where I thought I’d be in this project. Ideas, tasks and the project as a whole starts to swirl in my head and I have to stop myself and just go for it. When I focus on the growth I’ve had I can really lean into it. I want to be grateful for the opportunity and make some next steps happen in my work.
Outcome: Client is on track for project completion.
Challenge: “I tend to focus on the short term work so I’m more reactive. Then, the important projects don’t get done. I leave work in a fog, knowing I could have done more.”
[45 minute coaching call]
Result: If I got out of the fog and had a blue sky day it I would leave feeling accomplished. I want to create a checklist of things I need to do each day to set the course of the day. Then define the important tasks so I don’t get lost in the weeds. When I break down the task into smaller chunks I feel like I get more done. There can be emergencies with the work I do but everyday doesn’t need to be like that. I can be more strategic if I focus on the actions that will move me forward.
Outcome: Client increased revenue for their business.
Challenge: “My anxiety gets in the way of work. The stress is intense and I can’t seem to calm down. It all feels like too much. When I get home I can’t let it go. I think about work all the time.”
[45 minute coaching call]
Result: When I get anxious, I need to take a break and talk to a colleague because it means I feel isolated. If I can make a connection with someone then I start to feel better, a little calmer. There are large parts of my job that I enjoy, when I focus on that, then I can get through work. I have a diffuser in my office and put lavender essential oil in it and the smell calms me down. During my drive home I’ll give myself time to ‘download’ the day and the minute I put the car in the garage, I want to focus on my family. I’ll keep a notebook by my side at home and if any ideas and thoughts come, I’ll write them down and let them go so I can really concentrate on them.
Outcome: Client got a promotion!
Although the work of Productivity Coaching can be about email best practices or effective meetings. There are deeper underlying challenges that when addressed can greatly improve the work that you do. Challenges like showing up as a better boss, enjoying work and decreasing stress. When you can work on that and create lasting results you can have incredible outcomes.
If you are interested in Productivity Coaching for your challenges, sign up today for a complimentary 30-minute consultation.
Margo Crawford is a Productivity Coach and Professional Organizer with Wave Productivity. She works with entrepreneurs, small business owners and business professionals to help them get more focused, organized and productive in their workplace. She coaches by phone nationally and in person in Phoenix, Providence and Boston. If you want to get more organized in your office call 602-677-8275 or email [email protected].