At Ignite CSP, we talk and think a lot about what our values are, and about what it takes to show up powerfully for our clients. We want to be clear about what characteristics we bring to the forefront when we are working, when we are in relationship with others.
Of course in order to do this work, a coach needs to be familiar with our methodology, and needs to be, as we say, a detective of human behavior. It’s important to be able to see and name behavior, and to help clients identify what’s helping them work towards their goals and what isn’t.
But more than that, in order to truly serve in our work, you have to have curiosity, humility, and imagination.
Curiosity: what makes this person tick? What do they love and what do they despise? What lights them up? What are their fears? Being in relationship with our clients means wanting to learn about them and their work.
Imagination: Imagination is a close cousin to empathy. When you listen to someone describe an experience and you can imagine it, visualize it, project yourself into its landscape, it is easier for you to empathize with them. Imagination helps us see the current situation and see where it might go in the future. Imagination gives us the scope to look beyond the present moment.
Humility: This value is the most important of all. Humility is what allows us to listen, to question our own assumptions, to admit we were wrong, and to fix our mistakes. Humility is what keeps us questioning, flexible, and willing to grow.
We rely on curiosity, imagination, and humility. What values are integral to your work?
