Executive Coaching For Optimum Performance

Leaders need to perform at an optimum level and to do that they have to manage and motivate their teams effectively, but also fight their own demons. You know the ones I mean:

• The feeling of isolation.

• Self-doubt or lack of confidence.

• Do I look like a Leader and am I perceived as one?

• Can I do this job? Am I good enough?

The feeling of being isolated is normal; it is lonely at the top; this goes for any senior Executive leader position. We all have a fear of being vulnerable, needing someone to confide in, who won’t judge you. It is not a weakness! We need to have a sounding board, someone who we can trust to listen to us and maybe offer an opinion. This is where mentors can help especially if they are not in the same organisation.

Self-doubt is something we all experience. Ask any parent, it is not just executives that question their decisions. Our confidence can be easily shaken, resulting in self-doubt and double guessing ourselves. It is okay to question our decisions - in fact it can be a good thing. Listen to your gut (I know, this goes against most coaches thinking) but I believe it is a strong indicator. Take time to make important decisions, seek counsel where and when required and then go for it.

Body language is important. How we hold ourselves, how we walk into a room, how we greet people. Stand tall and be happy taking up space. In the words of William Shakespeare “all the worlds a stage and all the men and women merely players”.

We have had a lifetime thinking we should work on our weaknesses, but why? Concentrate on your strengths, they are what you are good at. Probably the reason you are in your position. Employ people who are better at what you perceive are your weaknesses.