Article by Liz Copeland
It’s not uncommon at this time of year to want to make changes, but beware that you don’t make yourself a whole list of goals that you never reach, says executive coach Liz Copeland. “The reason that goal setting and new year style resolutions often don’t work is because they may not address the big question of you really want, deep down. But decide what it is you really want to change, and long-term enduring transformation is more likely.”
What’s more, Liz is confident that you can actually do this in a simple 3 question, 20 minute process.
First, create a physical space for the process by taking yourself somewhere different or away from distractions at the least. Turn your mobile off and make sure you have unbroken time. Make it your intention to focus, wholeheartedly, on this process. It’s very common to suddenly become distracted, and remember an urgent email you need to answer, or that you have to look for something urgent for that meeting tomorrow, and this is quite normal: it’s just a part of your brain that is trying to stop change. Instead, note down what it is you have to do later, and return to focusing on the task in hand.
Q1: What do you want from life?
Ask yourself this question, and probe deeper than the new funky coffee machine and a trip to St Lucia. Dig really deep. What do you really, really want? There are no right or wrong answers here, but there may be slightly scary ones. If you don’t know what you want, guess. What would it be if you knew?
Q2: Who am I?
This is huge question that you won’t be able to answer all at once. Brainstorm: “I am a mother”; “I am a size 8”; “I am kind”. What does your list say to you? What would you like your list to say to you? What needs to happen to make it say that?
Q3. What do I do next?
This is the step that will make a difference, and this is the question you must keep on asking yourself. Ask what should you do next, do it, and then ask again. Accept that you will be gradually correcting course, like an ocean liner, using force to keep you on track and not led astray by currents and winds that would take you elsewhere.
It’s a process that can spark off massive change especially if done regularly, say Liz. “And the beauty is that you can use it in both your personal and work life. “
Liz Copeland is a transformational coach, working with professionals who are eager to create a life of personal growth, professional success and fulfilment – and who are ready for personal change.
Liz started her career with Price Waterhouse and CAP Scientific and left the corporate world when her husband was transferred overseas. On his return, Liz started a complementary therapy practice and ran this successfully for many years. During this time, Liz developed a change process that would enable her clients to make emotional and practical change, and has coached over 200 people through difficult waters.
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