What transformational coaching can teach us about connection

Following a thought-provoking two days with Yannick Jacob, learning the principles of existential coaching, and then listening to a great talk from Nick Bolton of the Animas Centre for Coaching titled Towards Transformational Dialogue, I've been thinking about spiritual intelligence and WeQ versus IQ.

It all comes down to the thought that we are all human beings together, and that we need the interaction and support of our fellow humans, both personally and in business, be they partners, family, friends, colleagues, coaches, therapists or health professionals.

It also brings to mind this piece of Lakota wisdom:

"In the circle we are all equal. There is no one in front of you, and there's nobody behind you; no one is below you. The circle is sacred because it is designed to create unity."

The power of community

The values associated with the Native American Lakota people still have relevance for individuals and businesses today. The rough translation of Lakota is "an alliance of people". They have been characterised by ideals such as community, affinity, generosity, co-operation and strength. Their extended families lived in harmony with one another, trusted each other, valued interpersonal relationships and had a strong sense of belonging.

When a business allows all its employees to have a voice through connection and communication, and each team member at every level is encouraged, valued, trusted, respected and supported, amazing things can happen.

Holding space

In transformational coaching, when a strong rapport is established with a client and space is held for them, they can take time to explore their thoughts, dreams, hopes and fears, knowing that they are not being judged, interrupted or told what to do.

Having some of their thoughts reflected encourages deeper thinking, and being challenged often causes them to dig even deeper. This may be uncomfortable, but it is always their choice.

Humans being human together

At the end of the day, it's just humans being human together.