incorporating art into coaching

Sometimes it’s difficult to verbalise your thoughts and emotions. Drawing however, encourages a deeper level or self-awareness and enriches the coaching conversation by switching on right-brain thinking. It’s not about producing a masterpiece; it’s about exploring your thoughts through any creative equipment you choose and providing you with some tangible imagery for your coaching journey. It’s such a powerful tool!

Some years ago, I did a course with the lovely Anna Sheather on art in coaching. A very insightful experience. I recall drawing a single rose unfolding in a field, and at the time this represented my exploration of developing my coaching business whilst still working in the NHS. I remember feeling nervous about this prospect and somewhat isolated.

Fast forward a few years and recently retired from my NHS career. My energies are now devoted to my coaching and I have drawn a similar picture, but now with very different connotations - this time the field is full of wild flowers. I am in the field and immersed in the display of flowers and enjoying the small noises of the countryside without having to react in any way and really lean into my insignificance at this moment.

I am not necessarily looking for a path through this field just embracing the freedom and my thoughts led me to explore further ideas based on this imagery:

· Freedom – Give myself permission to wander and plan but not necessary with any cohesion or obligation to start with.

· Creativity – To explore possibilities and go in any direction I please.

· Its Spring/Summer in my picture – Motivation and inspiration are in abundance in my field of flowers.

What would your picture look like? Do let me know you get on!