One of the first questions I ask clients is to clarify their desired outcomes for a coaching engagement or facilitation event. This question begins the process of making the distinction between activity and accomplishment. For instance, we are having a leadership offsite to accomplish what? Even though it may be a standard practice to do the offsite on an annual or semi-annual basis, what is it that you would like to accomplish as a result of doing this activity?
If you pause for a moment, you could see that the practice of identifying desired outcomes is a reflective practice that is applicable to any part of our life and therefore any encounter we have. It is a bridge process between showing up and living a more intentional life. And this process is helpful in all areas of our lives and relationships.
If you are meeting with someone one on one, what is your desired outcome? What will you need to do in order to make that happen? What is the invitation and/or request you are making of the other person? Is that really an invitation or is it a demand? What behaviors and attitudes on your part will best facilitate you co-creating the desired outcome?
Last week my daughters and grandson were in town. I took time away from work because I wanted to be with them. My desired outcome for the visit was to be with them and enjoy our time together. Whether that happened at Legoland, the beach or just sitting in the backyard, the location was irrelevant to my desired outcome. It was great to be with them, and other family and friends, as we enjoyed our time together. My desired outcome was achieved, and I look forward to the next time we are together. It is never soon enough!
As you look at your day or week ahead, what are your desired outcomes? How will you need to be and what will you need to do to co-create your intentions? Enjoy the reflective practice!