What challenges might you face when transitioning to coaching leadership?

We are ALL hardwired to resist change. Change and dissent was fatal for cavemen (and women!). Raise your head and you get eaten by a mammoth... So, even now, it is hard to embrace change. Getting curious about how things are done around here (current culture) and then exploring together how we want things to be done in future will help all to feel included and that each one has influence and impact on the new future that is being created

Some ways to get started on taking a coaching approach include simply reminding yourself that, at its most basic, coaching is the act of asking disobliging questions in service of someone else. Some people find it helpful to think of it this way. Using questions that begin with "what...?" instead of "why..?" can be helpful in being less inflammatory

This is really a question of seeing the long game... you invest time to create trust, and you create trust so that you can understand and respect each other. And vice versa actually. The more you trust and respect each other, the more you can count on each other to do the work you pass each other, and the less time you can spend on meetings that are held by tradition, not need.... You CAN afford to invest that time, as you will recoup it if you make it work

As a leader adopts a coaching presence with their team, it will take longer, particularly at the forefront. But, overtime, when the new rhythms and habits become familiar to the culture, time will be redeemed.

When I was personally adapting my leadership style, I found it helpful to build self awareness by pausing at the end of my workday to complete an examination. The art of reflection was invaluable as I tried to recognize when and why I resorted my old directive style of leadership.

Since being a certified coach, I realize that this profession can be a solitary journey at times. Many coaches work independently and are bound by strict confidentiality guidelines. Many coaches upon getting their qualification from the coaching academy are largely left on their own to figure out the way forward. Without a supportive supervisor or mentor, coaches may miss out on guidance, feedback, and a sense of professional accountability in this helping profession. In my experience, it is important to consider regular coaching supervision. Coach supervisors are trained to create a safe space for coaches to reflect on their practices so they can continue to bring about the great impact to the people they coach.