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  • Essay / Development Plan - 1794

    Introduction“To look forward with keenness, we must first look back with honesty. » This quote from Warren Bennis is one of the biggest philosophies I try to lead. Good leaders understand that this ability to reflect honesty from the past is essential to future success. In order to lead and coach a team from a position of resonance, leaders must engage in an ongoing journey of self-discovery. By gaining a deep understanding of themselves, they are more easily able to coach and develop their teams. The process of self-discovery requires leaders to be willing to learn and adapt to the strengths and opportunities of their leadership style. This singular skill is at the heart of any leader’s success. In fact, it's probably the most important skill that leaders must integrate to become truly remarkable. (Eikenberry, 2007, p. 21) Over the past nine weeks, I have embarked on another process of self-discovery. I have had the pleasure of speaking to a leadership coach on several occasions. I was able to seek input from trusted stakeholders on how I lead and coach constituents. I even had the opportunity to provide coaching to a fellow learner. These various experiences allowed me to take stock of my coaching abilities and to access any relevant gaps in the way I currently coach compared to the coach I aspire to become. The following will explore the need to develop others, the value of coaching from a strengths-based approach, the importance of good communication skills, and steps to take for my continued improvement as a leader/coach. Developing others “The goal is to start developing leaders who will one day take your place - to develop leaders in the middle of paper......ery. I learned things about how I coach that gave me a lot of knowledge. I was happy to have gotten the results on the coaching process questionnaire, I was angry with myself because I didn't feel like I had adequately prepared for my coach for a session with a another learner, and I was surprised at how long a fellow coach will reach out to his client. Ultimately, I'm glad I was able to gain the knowledge I have and will continue to progress toward the coaching style I aspire to. In doing so, I will continue to build the capacity of individuals to ensure the preparation of the next generation of leaders. I will coach clients using a strengths-based approach to foster a deeper sense of purpose and direction. I will do this by asking the “right” questions and actively listening to my customers..