POWER TRAIT #1: BE COACHABLE

8 Feb 2021 by David Muller

Finding competent and compatible mentors is only half the battle. It’s also important to develop your own coachability.

If you’re like most entrepreneurs, you probably want to succeed, but you may resist coaching for reasons that you may not even be aware of. However, you can develop skills and qualities that will prepare you to accept guidance and act on it. Use the following checklist to find the areas you need to work on so you can have successful relationships with your mentors.

Listen closely. Pay attention to what your mentors have to say. Look for the truth in any message instead of dismissing their perspective or trying to make excuses. Maintain eye contact, when possible and resist any urge to interrupt. On video calls, don’t turn off your camera while part of a conversation.

Ask questions. Ensure you understand what your mentors are telling you. Paraphrase their statements in your own words. Clarify any points you’re unsure of and ask for concrete examples.

Take your time. Let yourself absorb information fully. Focus on responding thoughtfully rather than quickly. If a situation stirs up strong feelings, give yourself an opportunity to calm down so you can think clearly.

Welcome feedback. Ask others for input frequently and graciously. It helps to stay in practice and have multiple viewpoints while you’re working with your coach.

Watch your body language. Ensure that your gestures and expressions are friendly and consistent with your words. Your mentors are human. It’s easier for them to fully engage with you when they feel respected and appreciated.

Open up. Recognize that there is more than one way to approach the same goals. Consider your mentor’s suggestions even when they’re different from your usual methods.

Value learning. Are you excited about adding to your knowledge and stretching your skills? Learning is a mindset that helps you to make better decisions and pivot with more grace. It can also motivate you to persevere through the coaching process.

Set goals. While your mentors can help you to reach your goals, you need to be sure that your targets are specific and meaningful for you. Write your goals out and tell others about them so you’ll feel more accountable.

Have proper expectations. Do you understand the difference between mentoring and consulting? A consultant is usually hired to fix a specific issue. A mentor works with you to build your strengths so you can achieve the outcomes you desire.

Cultivate gratitude. Thank your coaches and mentors for the positive impact they make in your life. Putting their insights into action is also an effective way to show them that they’re making a difference.

Be humble. Remember that your mentors (and anyone you meet) have valuable things that they can teach you. Tame your ego so you can create productive relationships and take advantage of rewarding opportunities.

Evaluate your progress. Self-examination is an important part of the coaching process. Reflect on the areas that you’ve already covered and what you want to do next. Enjoy discovering more about yourself and your abilities. Being coachable is about being ready and willing to learn and grow. Unlock your potential so you can achieve greater personal and professional success.

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