We All Need Help

Last week, Jacquelyn Lane and I delivered a keynote based on our book, "Becoming Coachable," at the APMM Association for Pennsylvania Municipal Management conference in Bethlehem, PA. As we addressed the audience of smart, civic-minded, and compassionate city managers, it became abundantly clear that these professionals could use some support. Caught between the various forces pulling and pushing them, the challenges of working within a public budget, and having an elected board oversee their work, these dedicated individuals face a daunting task. Although the 100 Coaches Agency typically works with the most senior leaders of major organizations, the issues we heard from these city managers echoed the core challenges that coaching addresses: feeling overwhelmed, seeing one's blind spots, and wanting to grow and improve.

One of the most striking realizations that emerged from our interactions with these city managers was the universality of the need for support. Regardless of the level of leadership or the nature of the organization, we all face moments when we feel overwhelmed by the demands placed upon us. The pressures of managing competing priorities, navigating complex relationships, and making difficult decisions can take a toll on even the most seasoned leaders. In these moments, seeking help is not a sign of weakness but instead a testament to one's strength and self-awareness. By recognizing our limitations and reaching out for support, we open ourselves up to new perspectives, strategies, and solutions to help us navigate our challenges.

Another key insight that emerged from our conversations with the city managers was the importance of acknowledging and addressing our blind spots. As leaders, we often operate under the assumption that we have a clear understanding of ourselves, our teams, and the environment in which we work. However, the reality is that we all have areas where our perception is limited or distorted. These blind spots can lead us to make decisions that are not in the best interest of those we serve or to overlook opportunities for growth and improvement. By engaging in coaching and seeking feedback from others, we can gain a more accurate and complete picture of our strengths, weaknesses, and areas for development. This self-awareness is critical to becoming more effective leaders and creating positive change in our organizations and communities.

Finally, our experience with the city managers reinforced the idea that we can all be better. No matter how successful or accomplished we may be, there is always room for continual growth and improvement. The desire to learn, adapt, and evolve is what separates great leaders from those who simply maintain the status quo. By embracing a growth mindset and actively seeking opportunities to develop our skills and knowledge, we can unlock our full potential and make a greater impact on those we serve. Plus, we can model this behavior for those we lead, creating a ripple effect of development. Coaching provides a powerful framework for this ongoing growth, offering a safe and supportive space to explore new ideas, challenge assumptions, and develop new ways of thinking and being.

In life and leadership, we all need help. Whether we are senior executives leading major corporations or city managers serving our local communities, our challenges are complex and multifaceted. By recognizing our need for support, acknowledging our blind spots, and embracing a commitment to ongoing growth and development, we can become more effective leaders and create positive change for those we love and lead. As we reflect on our experience with the city managers in Bethlehem, PA, we are reminded of the power of coaching to transform lives and organizations. By extending our reach and offering our support to leaders at all levels, we can help create a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

With love, gratitude, and wonder.

Scott