I was recently talking to a friend about their business which is in its early stages. They were presenting with some dilemma as to which direction to take. They had not acted on anything or made progress for the first few months because of this “dilemma”. Basically they said had two directions that they could move their business in and they could not see clearly which way would be best for them.
I listened to them talk about their business and passion for their brand and making something their own. I listened to their almost equally convincing ideas about the benefits of taking an easier path that wasn’t quite what they wanted but would gain momentum quicker. I could certainly relate to it personally, but having someone else present the same dilemma before me, I could instinctively see the issue. This is what I love about coaching, being that set of “outside eyes” for your client. You offer a wider perspective when your client can’t see ahead and you draw back the curtain and help them see the bigger picture. You help your client create more options and find clear solutions.
On this occasion I responded with what I had just heard this friend say about their business. I added that their passion for their own brand and business seemed quite strong and having their own brand was important to them. I explained that what is important to them and what they value should be what they decide to work with ie. the direction they decide to go in. This is all about using your values to make difficult decisions.When you are clear about your personal values, decision making – even big decisions – aren’t that difficult anymore. You run them through the value check… will this align with my values, what’s important to me? In most cases one option will always align better with your values. And that is how you use your own values to move forward in your business and life. It creates confidence in your decisions and the direction you are taking. And in the short and long term you will experience a level of fulfillment that you could not otherwise have experienced if you were on another path disregarding your values.