by Robin Wheeler, October 2005

Coaching is increasingly popular for human resource needs ranging from accelerated development to stress management and general performance improvement.

Some coaches are accredited for using models based on business science, others are branded for their distinctive successes and are mentors to clients along those lines.

My unique selling proposition and guiding philosophy is what I call “being yourself for a living”. I help people see the big picture, know themselves better and awaken their own intelligence. In the new economy, with its uncertainty and reliance on human value, this is the optimal response.

Clients come to me for coaching in one of three broad scenarios: when they are facing change and needing direction; when they want a sounding board and guidance for their ambitions; and when they choose to live and work with more meaning and fulfilment and, thus, achieve better overall results.

My input is responsive to their needs but often along the following lines:

1. Know Yourself

To enjoy your work more and contribute optimally, it helps to know who you are, what you offer, and what you aspire to. Being centred and rooted in your individuality, trusting and adding your unique value, and being on a journey of self-discovery through your work is the way to be more yourself at work.

No formal education teaches this, so you have to find it for yourself. Look inwards. What is your purpose and how does it translate into your job?

This question does not have a simple answer, it is a feeling of meaningful connection with your world and vocation. The journey of your life well lived and your job well done becomes the answer.

2. Align Purpose With Strategy

With your sense of self and personal purpose, you should now look outwards at your context, your specific area of contribution within your broader organisation.

Where is your business heading, what is its vision and strategy, and what does it need to get there? If you have no connection with that, move somewhere you relate to and want to work.

If you do relate to it, align the fulfilment of your purpose with the realisation of the business vision, and emphasise the connection between them in your day to day actions. This will bring your job to life, give it depth, and significantly boost your performance and satisfaction.

3. Operate As An Entrepreneur

With a meaning-based vision, look for and respond to needs and gaps in the market. Focus on adding value, and think like a business person, not an employee. Not everyone is suited to going it alone, but everyone should be entrepreneurial where they work.

Entrepreneurship is a state of mind, a stance and approach to the world. It is as important to the success of corporations as it is to the survival of individuals in the free market or the empowerment of a developing nation.

4. Do What You Love

Follow your heart, no matter the risk. Let intuition supersede logic. The first already knows what is right for you and your business, and the second should merely be a tool to help you on your way.