“Let me live my life like a river flows, constantly surprised by its own unfolding.”
These profound words by John O’Donohue, the Irish mystic and poet, resonate deeply with me as I reflect on my journey through the world of learning and development, and now into the realm of coaching. They remind me that life is not a straight path but a winding river, filled with twists and turns, each bringing new opportunities and insights.
A Cosmic Turn of Events
I began my career as a successful Learning and Development professional in India, navigating a landscape rich with challenges yet brimming with potential. I dedicated myself to shaping the minds of aspiring professionals and promoting growth through structured learning frameworks. My passion for empowering others drove my commitment to excellence in every training program I developed.
Then, as if orchestrated by the universe, I received an unexpected offer to head the Learning and Development function for a major regional corporation in the Middle East. This pivotal moment felt like a cosmic alignment, a beckoning call to venture into uncharted waters. I seized the opportunity, moving my family halfway across the world, full of dreams and aspirations.
For the next 20 years, I immersed myself in that organization, laying the very foundations of its business, building competencies, and aligning the workforce with a visionary future. I often think back to the initial days when everything felt new and overwhelming—a surreal manipulation of the familiar into the unknown. Among the early challenges was establishing a culture of continuous learning in a diverse workforce.
One pivotal experience stands out: Implementing a leadership development program. I vividly recall the hesitance of some senior managers, who doubted the need for structured leadership training. However, through patience and persistence, I guided them through the program’s value, crafting a space for them to explore their leadership styles and engage with their teams more effectively. This experience taught me the power of soft skills and the importance of adapting my approach to the audience’s needs—an invaluable lesson that I carry into my coaching today.
The Entrepreneurial River
Fast forward 20 years, I found myself at a crossroads. The river of my career was calling me again, urging me to embrace a new direction. This time, it was an entrepreneurial venture into the world of coaching. Leaving behind the stability of corporate life was daunting, but I knew it was my time to flow into a new stream.
With a heart full of intention and a mind sharpened by my experiences, I launched my consultancy in the people domain of coaching. It felt like stepping into a river to carve a new path—a blend of uncertainty and excitement. My first client was a talented professional struggling to navigate workplace conflicts. Through our sessions, I witnessed the transformation firsthand: from confusion to clarity, from self-doubt to confidence. I realized that coaching isn’t just about imparting knowledge; it’s about facilitating growth and self-discovery.
This transition from corporate leader to independent coach had its challenges. There were doubts and fears, moments when I questioned my decision. However, like a river that continuously redefines itself, I embraced the flow of my career journey. Each setback was a bend in the river, leading me to new territories of learning and development.
Lessons Learned
Through my experiences, I have learned that life, much like a river, is ever-changing. Here are a few key insights I’d like to share:
- Embrace Change: Change is the only constant. Just as a river flows and adapts to its surroundings, being open to new experiences can lead to unexpected opportunities and growth.
- Be Present: In coaching, and in life, being present allows for deeper connections. Just as a river nourishes the lands it touches, being fully engaged with those around us can create meaningful impact.
- Nurture Others: My journey in L&D taught me the importance of empowering others. As coaches, we have the privilege to guide individuals toward realizing their potential.
- Learn from the Flow: Each twist and turn in our life paths offers lessons. Reflecting on experiences can deepen our understanding and help us navigate future challenges with wisdom.
Conclusion
As I continue to navigate the waters of coaching and entrepreneurship, I remain inspired by O’Donohue’s words. Living like a river means embracing the beauty of unexpected changes and the unfolding of my journey. Every client I coach, every partnership I build, and every lesson learned contributes to the ever-evolving tapestry of my life.
Let us all strive to flow like a river, open to the surprises and opportunities that await us. Together, let’s discover how to thrive in our own journeys, allow ourselves to be surprised by our unfolding, and empower each other along the way.
