When I trained as an Executive Coach one of the things that made an impact on me was how important it is for a coach to see their clients as resourceful and I have integrated this key principle into my own coaching practice ever since.

In recent years, the government’s economic austerity policy has meant that leadership has become tougher year on year for my clients, many of whom work in the public sector, and as a consequence their own wellbeing as leaders has become a key component in our coaching sessions. 

Wellbeing has two components: feeling good and functioning well

The New Economics Foundation say that wellbeing has two components: feeling good and functioning well. They say that “Feelings of happiness, contentment, enjoyment, curiosity and engagement are characteristic of someone who has a positive experience of their life. Equally important for wellbeing is our functioning in the world. Experiencing positive relationships, having some control over one’s life and having a sense of purpose are all important attributes of wellbeing.”

Five ways to wellbeing

The New Economics Foundation considered the evidence on wellbeing and drew up five ways to wellbeing which anyone can integrate into their life. The five ways are:

1. Connect
2. Be active
3. Take notice
4. Keep learning
5. Give  

For some of my clients, a discussion about actions to improve their personal wellbeing has been sufficient and has enabled them to make small yet significant changes. However, for others this has not been enough. They have wanted to look more deeply at their wellbeing, in terms of how they function and perform, and I have felt a desire to develop my skills in this area in order to be the best coach I can be for them. 

It was for this reason that I was delighted when AoEC decided to partner with the Foundation for Recovery and Wellness to offer Executive Coaching and Health: Coaching Skills for Wellness, Recovery & Performance and I am currently enjoying familiarising myself with it.  

The course is made up of three modules on theory, skills and advanced skills. I am currently working through module one at my own pace and am learning about the underpinning theory. I am confident that this programme will help develop my skills to enable my coaching clients to deepen their understanding of their own wellbeing.