3 Powerful Words to Live By – CURIOSITY, COMPASSION, COURAGE.

23 October 2022

I came across this LinkedIn posts by Dr. Elizabeth Lindsey recently about a photo of explorers and adventurers.

3 Powerful Words – CURIOSITY, COMPASSION, COURAGE.
Love those 3 words. Those are the 3 words I wish to live by on a daily basis.

Whether I am having a 1-on-1 confidential coaching conversation with a Leader; facilitating Coaching For Leaders/The Leader As Coach workshops; conducting group coaching sessions with first time or middle managers; mentoring a group of Coaches towards ICF accreditation; co-facilitating ICF Level 1 Certification or just having a conversation over coffee with my fellow coaches, mentees or family members.

Let me start with my favorite. CURIOSITY.
When you are curious, you are not judgemental. When you are curious, you do not give advice. When you are curious, you ask questions.
Start with the statement “I’m curious…….” when one of your co-workers come to you with a situation. Like I am curious, help me understand. Like I’m curious, tell me more.
When you are curious, you come with a beginner’s mindset and you don’t have to know everything. People would love to speak up when you show a curious demeanour and display true curiosity.
Yes, when you are curious, you are on a journey of exploration. You will be rewarded with gifts of appreciation and gratitude.
And people will come across as H-O-T Honest-Open-Transparent!

My No 3: COMPASSION.
It’s Empathy in action, not just putting yourself in someone else’s shoes, it’s also about meeting people where they are and do it with gentle care. Giving more than you take. Helping unconditionally.
Be present. Be kind. Be considerate. Trying to understand the person or situation better. Giving the other person(s) more space. Shut up and Listen. Be comfortable with silence. Respond not react. Do not assume but seek clarification and understanding. Take more deep breaths.
It’s about experimentation for both sides.

My No 2: COURAGE.
Be vulnerable, it’s a strength according to Brené Brown. Choose courage not comfort or complacency. Say “Yes” even if you have not done it before, even if you feel you are not completely ready. Do the dive. You will never be 100% ready.
Your Courage will let you experience new adventures, going to places you have never been, learning and growing rapidly along the way.

My New Mantra: Be Genuinely Curious, Be Truly Compassionate, Be Confidently Courageous. This is what I will live by starting today!