When Generosity Fuels Growth: A Journey into Coaching
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After many years as an NHS GP and headache specialist, I’ve decided to embark on a new journey into coaching—a path I’ve long desired to pursue, and I’m thrilled to have finally taken that first step. Alongside this shift, I’ve been tapping into a creative side I had all but forgotten, as I begin to craft my own personal brand.
Yesterday, a close friend—who possesses boundless creativity, extensive corporate experience, and is also a coach—reached out to check on my progress. She must have sensed, from the tone of my messages, that my self-promotion efforts were somewhat rudimentary. In true friend fashion, she immediately jumped in with practical advice, sending me tips on the do’s and don’ts of marketing myself. This might seem second nature to most, but coming from a career centered on caring for unwell patients, self-promotion was an entirely foreign concept.
Sensing that her initial advice might not be enough, she went further. She arranged a call with me today, and with incredible patience and unwavering encouragement, helped me make the necessary tweaks to truly get things moving. What struck me most was her genuine willingness to offer her time and expertise—without hesitation, without me even needing to ask. She’s busy, with plenty on her plate, yet she chose to invest in me. It was an act of kindness she didn’t need to offer, and one for which she likely expects nothing in return. Yet, to me, it made all the difference.
This experience got me thinking about the profound impact of these small, often unnoticed acts of generosity. It’s not the work we’re obligated to do that shapes us, but these unexpected moments of support, where someone steps in to help even when we don't know we need it. These gestures—of building each other up, even in the smallest ways—can transform both our mental wellbeing and professional lives. The giver may not even realize the magnitude of their contribution, but the effect can be lasting and profound.
So, here’s my first blog post—a reflection on the power of support and the strength found in collaboration. I’ve always thrived when working with others, and this experience reinforces what excites me most about coaching: the opportunity to walk alongside someone during their journey, offering support when they need it most.
The next time you find yourself in a position to help someone grow, seize the moment. Who knows, they might just write a blog post about you!
And if you’re curious about my incredible friend, be sure to check out her website—it's truly inspiring! https://www.artafterdark.co/
Yesterday, a close friend—who possesses boundless creativity, extensive corporate experience, and is also a coach—reached out to check on my progress. She must have sensed, from the tone of my messages, that my self-promotion efforts were somewhat rudimentary. In true friend fashion, she immediately jumped in with practical advice, sending me tips on the do’s and don’ts of marketing myself. This might seem second nature to most, but coming from a career centered on caring for unwell patients, self-promotion was an entirely foreign concept.
Sensing that her initial advice might not be enough, she went further. She arranged a call with me today, and with incredible patience and unwavering encouragement, helped me make the necessary tweaks to truly get things moving. What struck me most was her genuine willingness to offer her time and expertise—without hesitation, without me even needing to ask. She’s busy, with plenty on her plate, yet she chose to invest in me. It was an act of kindness she didn’t need to offer, and one for which she likely expects nothing in return. Yet, to me, it made all the difference.
This experience got me thinking about the profound impact of these small, often unnoticed acts of generosity. It’s not the work we’re obligated to do that shapes us, but these unexpected moments of support, where someone steps in to help even when we don't know we need it. These gestures—of building each other up, even in the smallest ways—can transform both our mental wellbeing and professional lives. The giver may not even realize the magnitude of their contribution, but the effect can be lasting and profound.
So, here’s my first blog post—a reflection on the power of support and the strength found in collaboration. I’ve always thrived when working with others, and this experience reinforces what excites me most about coaching: the opportunity to walk alongside someone during their journey, offering support when they need it most.
The next time you find yourself in a position to help someone grow, seize the moment. Who knows, they might just write a blog post about you!
And if you’re curious about my incredible friend, be sure to check out her website—it's truly inspiring! https://www.artafterdark.co/