Gaining endorsement

Other words for endorsement by "credibility" or "influence." Every interaction you have with a person either increases or decreases your endorsement. Have you ever met the person who won't stop talking and relates his whole life story to you? When you see that person coming, do you dread the interaction? If so, it is because the behavior has caused them to lose endorsement with you and therefore that person does not get the benefit of your time. Conversely, a person who you can't wait to see daily has gained endorsement with you and, therefore, is deserving of your time. The disc language allows you to behaviorally "stack" the deck in your favor. By knowing a person's behavioral style, you can immediately adapt to their style and gain endorsement. 

Elements that impact your endorsement

Following four elements greatly impact your endorsement, or how much "sanction" or "approval" others will give you. Human performance is directly proportional to endorsement.

Position 

An individual's position affects their endorsement. The president of a company will gain a certain amount of endorsement simply because of his position as president. If the president calls a meeting,  people will completely change the schedule in order to be there. A person's position gives them a certain amount of endorsement. This endorsement can then be increased or decreased based on "how" they act and what they believe. Position can be earned. Most good executive that have worked their way to the top have developed good people's skills. 

Appearance 

Appearance now greatly affects industment . People notice the way you dress, your stationery, briefcase, handshake, walk, etc. Anything a person "sees" can positively or negatively affect your endorsement. Often, we see sales people who send an unprofessional message just by the way they dress. Wearing tennis shoes with a suit, unmatched shirts and ties, coffee stained paperwork, and a messy briefcase are a few examples of things that can negatively affect your endorsement.  NOTE: The intention here is not to dictate what the person should wear, but to inform you that whether you like it or not, appearance does affect your endorsement. The elements of professional appearance can be learned. 

Beliefs 

Your beliefs impact your level of endorsement either positively or negatively. A person who does what they say and say what they do will develop greater endorsement then the person who is "wishy-washy"  in the actions. A straight shooter will develop a greater level of endorsement because of his/her reliability and trustworthiness. Quality is important, and a person who is quality will gain more endorsement than a person who does not have a strong set of positive, believes. 

Resolving and preventing conflict 

Understanding style similarities and differences will be the first step in resolving and preventing conflict. By meeting the person's behavioral needs, you will enable to diffuse many problems before they even happen. People prefer to be managed a certain way. Some like structure and some don't. Some like to work with people and some prefer to work alone. "Shot in the dark" management does not work in the 21st century. The DISC language will teach you more about the person in 10 minutes then you can learn in a year without DISC.

For more information on DISC Behavioral styles feel free to contact us on +27 74 127 6439 or email us at nevillesol@icloud.com.

 

The Stories We Tell Ourselves: How Beliefs Shape Our Narratives

The stories we tell ourselves are woven from a complex interplay of beliefs and attitudes. These narratives, often shaped by our experiences and perceptions, can influence our outlook on life and our potential for growth. Understanding how beliefs can become limiting and how they shape our personal stories is key to unlocking our full potential.

Beliefs as Narrative Anchors

Beliefs serve as anchors in the stories we construct about ourselves and the world around us. They are
not just ideas we hold; they shape our perceptions and judgments. For instance, if we believe we're not
good at something, that belief can color how we approach challenges and opportunities. It becomes a part of our narrative, influencing how we see ourselves and what we think we can achieve.

Our personal narratives are built upon the foundation of these beliefs. They shape the way we interpret
events, make decisions, and interact with others. If we hold limiting beliefs—such as "I'll never succeed" or "I'm not worthy"—these narratives can hold us back from reaching our true potential. 

They create a lens through which we view ourselves and the world, potentially stifling growth and resilience.

Recognizing and challenging limiting beliefs is essential for personal development. Research shows
that when we question these beliefs and examine the evidence behind them, we can reshape our narratives in empowering ways (Freedman, 1996). It's like editing a story—we revise the plot to include strengths, achievements, and possibilities we may have overlooked. 

The Role of Cognitive Processes

Research suggests that our beliefs and attitudes can evolve when we gain new insights or information (Freedman, 1996). When we engage in deep thinking or consider perspectives, we can break free from the constraints of limiting beliefs. This process allows us to rewrite our stories with optimism and

confidence, emphasizing our capabilities and potential. By staying open to newexperiences and challenging our assumptions, we expand our narrative possibilities. This flexibility helps us adapt and grow, fostering a more positive and resilient self-concept.

Identifying Limiting Beliefs

The first step in overcoming self-limiting beliefs is to acknowledge their existence. These beliefs often manifest as internal narratives that undermine confidence and competence. For instance, beliefs such as "I'm not capable enough" or "I'll never be as successful as others" can profoundly impact decision-making and leadership effectiveness.

The Process of Challenging Beliefs

• Recognition and Documentation: Begin by asking the coachee to identify and write down a specific belief they hold about themselves that may be limiting their progress. This could range from doubts about their skills to fears of failure.
• Critical Inquiry: Once the belief is identified, guide them through a series of probing questions:
• Fact vs. Assumption: Ask whether the belief is grounded in factual evidence or assumptions. Research in cognitive-behavioral therapy underscores that challenging such beliefs can alter negative thought patterns, thereby reducing anxiety and improving overall mental well-being (Curtiss, 2021).
• Contradictory Evidence: Encourage mindfulness and prompt them to consider instances or achievements that contradict this belief. Studies suggest that this process can lead to changes in neural pathways associated with self-perception, impacting behavior and performance (Schuman-Olivier, 2020).
• Perspective Shift: Encourage the coachee to imagine advising a friend who holds the same belief. Research in educational psychology highlights that fostering a growth mindset through such exercises can enhance academic performance and motivation (Limeri, 2020).
• Reframing the Belief: The ultimate goal is to help the coachee transform their limiting belief into a more empowering statement. For example, "I lack the skills" could be reframed as "I have the capacity to learn and grow in new areas."

Empowerment Through Reframing

By challenging these beliefs, executives not only gain clarity on their strengths but also

cultivate a *mindset conducive to growth and resilience. This process of reframing empowers
them to approach challenges with confidence and embrace opportunities for development.
In executive coaching sessions, this exercise serves as a foundational tool for personal
and professional development. As coaches, guiding executives through this introspective journey
fosters self-awareness and unlocks untapped potential. It equips them with the mental
agility needed to navigate complexleadership roles and inspire their teams effectively.

The Main Takeaway

The stories we tell ourselves are not fixed—they are dynamic and can evolve over time. Byunderstanding how beliefs influence our narratives and identifying limiting beliefs, we empower
ourselves to rewrite these stories in ways that support personal growth and fulfillment. It's a journey
of self-discovery and empowerment, where each chapter represents an opportunity to embrace new
perspectives, challenge old beliefs, and create a narrative that reflects our true potential.

 

10 Metaphors Illustrating the Advantages of Executive Coaching

Metaphors serve as powerful tools, offering vivid imagery and insights that can transform abstract concepts into tangible realities. By encapsulating complex ideas within simple, relatable terms, metaphors bridge the gap between the known and the unknown, making the benefits and processes of coaching more accessible and understandable.

For executives, who often navigate the challenging terrains of leadership, decision-making, and personal growth, metaphors illuminate the path forward, providing clarity and perspective. They enrich the dialogue between coach and coachee, fostering deeper reflection, insight, and breakthroughs.

According to research conducted by Lera Boroditsky, a Professor of Cognitive Science at UC San Diego, and Paul Thibodeau, an Associate Professor of Psychology Paul Thibodeau at Oberlin College, metaphors significantly shape our understanding and decision-making on complex issues, often more powerfully than we realize, influencing opinions and solutions without our conscious awareness (Thibodeau, 2011).

When seeking to engage new coaching clients, we can use metaphors to vividly illustrate the potential impact of executive coaching compared to services provided by consultants, advisors, and mentors. In this article, we introduce ten metaphors that demonstrate the transformative effect coaching can have, emphasizing its importance in fostering personal and professional growth, enhancing strategic thinking, and developing adaptive leadership skills amidst the constantly changing challenges executives face.

10 metaphors that showcase benefits of executive coaching

Slingshot and bow & arrow

Imagine the dynamic tension of a slingshot or a bow and arrow. In coaching, this tension mirrors the process of pulling back—engaging in deep self-reflection, gaining understanding, and preparing meticulously. This stage sets the groundwork for a powerful launch. Then, with a precise release, you're propelled forward, soaring toward your goals with renewed vigor and clear direction.

Architect and blueprint

Consider the coach as an architect, collaborating closely with the coachee to design a blueprint for success. Together, they outline the essential foundations, structures, and detailed plans necessary to achieve the coachee's goals. This partnership ensures every aspect of the plan aligns seamlessly with the coachee's vision and values, setting a solid framework for achievement.

Guide and traveler

In this relationship, the coach serves as an experienced guide to the coachee's journey, aiding them as they traverse unfamiliar landscapes and confront various challenges. The guide offers vital insight, direction, and encouragement, empowering the traveler to take decisive steps, learn from each experience, and ultimately arrive at their desired destination.

Catalyst for change

A coach acts as a catalyst, much like in a chemical reaction, accelerating the coachee's personal and professional transformation efficiently and effectively, without being altered in the process. This metaphor underscores the coach's role in stimulating profound change, igniting fresh insights, and motivating proactive steps, all while maintaining a distinct presence.

Scaffolding

Similar to the temporary support scaffolding provides during the construction of buildings, a coach offers essential structure, support, and guidance as the coachee progresses towards their objectives. As the coachee develops greater self-reliance and confidence, the scaffolding—representing the coach's support—is gradually dismantled.

Mining guide

Envision the coach as a seasoned guide in the mining expedition of the executive's personal and professional landscape, aiding in the excavation of deep-seated insights, strengths, and untapped potential. This metaphor highlights the rigorous exploration and discovery of invaluable wisdom and capabilities lying beneath the surface.

Captain and navigator

In this metaphor, the executive assumes the role of a ship's captain, steering and making critical decisions, while the coach operates as the navigator, supplying essential maps, tools, and insights to chart the most effective course. It emphasizes a collaborative effort in maneuvering through complex business terrains and strategic decision-making.

Backpacking adventure

Coaching is akin to embarking on a backpacking adventure, where coaches equip clients with the necessary tools (skills and mindsets) for their expedition through life or career. Throughout this journey, coaches provide encouragement, impart wisdom, and help lighten the load, guiding clients as they venture into unexplored territories.

Fishing

Consider coaching as akin to fishing, where coaches teach executives to select the appropriate bait (strategies), cast their line (initiatives), and patiently await the catch (outcomes). Just like experienced anglers adapt their techniques to the situation, coaches tailor their approach to meet the unique challenges and contexts of each leader.

The lamp, the ladder & the lifeboat

This metaphor encapsulates three potent symbols in coaching:

The Lamp: Coaches shed light on the path ahead, dispelling the shadows of uncertainty. They provide clarity and insight, enabling executives to navigate through complex challenges with confidence.

The Ladder: Coaches present a ladder, assisting executives in reaching new heights. This symbolizes advancement, skill enhancement, and the pursuit of higher aspirations.

The Lifeboat: In turbulent times, coaches serve as a lifeboat, offering a haven of support, stability, and safety, ensuring executives can weather the storm and emerge resilient.