The Parliament Vol. 1, No. 10

What Does Success Look Like?

COACHING PROMPT OF THE WEEK

“What does success look like?” 

“Begin with the End in mind” is sage advice from Stephen Covey, and it works well with Goal Setting.  Getting clarity on success helps to understand specifics about what needs to happen to get there.  This prompt can be helpful in painting a picture of what your team member is hoping to walk away with after their efforts.

Additional questions might include:

  • What does success feel like?

  • What’s one thing you need to do differently to get you closer to that outcome?

  • If you imagine yourself at the end of this journey, what’s different about you?

Remember that coaching isn’t telling! Coaching is about staying curious and making space for those in our care to become confident authors of their own stories.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

Our teams need - and deserve - to feel safe and seen at work. But creating that kind of overall environment is really challenging. And great leaders know that, in addition to a good environment, they need to create meaningful connections with each of their team members on an individual basis. They need to understand what motivates them and what makes them feel unsure or threatened.

Psychologist David Rock developed the SCARF Model, and it can help leaders do exactly that! The SCARF Model is an amazing tool that can provide insight into team members' relationship with each of the 5 pillars of psychological safety. I use it often with my clients to help them better understand how they can build trust with others and collaborate more easily.

What are some ways you can apply this model to help your teams feel safe and improve collaboration?

Want more leadership & coaching tips?! Check out our YouTube channel, and while you’re there, be sure to subscribe!

Memento Mori – Remember Your Mortality

“You could leave life right now. Let that determine what you do and say and think.” - Marcus Aurelius

At first blush, this expression and the quote from the ancient Roman emperor might seem morbid – but it doesn’t have to be. Instead, the Stoics use the expression Memento Mori as a reminder to be mindful, present, and grateful.

And this photo is of me in my happy place doing exactly that - being more mindful, present, and grateful that I get to take it all in. Connecting to the memory of this day, and many other days hiking and adventuring, helps me recharge and regroup so I can take on the rest of life with the passion and perspective it deserves.

I use these kinds of Stoic teachings and tools often with my clients as I help them be at ‘choice,’ choosing how they show up in a turbulent world.

What if today was your last day – what would you do, say, and think? Think about that 😉

RECOMMENDED BY THOMAS

Featured Reading:

In "Your Brain at Work," David Rock explores the neuroscience behind human behavior in the workplace. The book delves into how our brains process information, respond to stress, and influence our decision-making.

Rock introduces the SCARF model, a framework for understanding social and emotional needs that significantly impact our work performance. He also discusses the importance of creating a positive work environment that fosters trust, autonomy, and belonging.

The book offers practical strategies for leaders and individuals to optimize their brain function and improve their productivity, creativity, and overall well-being in the workplace.

Not subscribed to The Parliament? SUBSCRIBE TODAY to stay connected!

WORK WITH US!

I'm available to deliver thought-provoking and engaging presentations at your next leadership conference or team event. I'm committed to providing unforgettable experiences that will leave a lasting impact.

Here’s what other clients are saying…

As a self-proclaimed “life-time learner” I found the coaching program to be unique. The introspective process challenged me to change my mindset, set aside my preconceived notions, identify my own personal blockers and approach problems in a new way.  I found that the strategies and thought patterns developed through the coaching relationship helped me to form a toolkit I could apply in all facets of my life (professional, personal, family) to better understand how I “show up.”

I can’t recommend coaching with Thomas more highly for anyone who is ready work on themselves. 

- James H.

BE A FORCE MULTIPLIER!

Have a conversation with your team about the concepts included in the SCARF model. Are there opportunities to build trust and cooperation on your team? 

Look for tangible ways to reduce threats, like providing more autonomy on assignments, creating a mentor or buddy program, or providing feedback in a more constructive manner. 

Challenge the team to come up with three ways to minimize perceived threats or maximize rewards for each element of SCARF! 

Making the World Better by Building Better Leaders

(850) 287-8879