Remember the old proverb: “When the student is ready, the teacher will appear”
I posted a piece in 48Days.net that I titled Compassionate Coaching. I cautioned coaches that “free” coaching usually does not serve the provider or the receiver well. A young lady challenged me with her belief that she’s essentially stuck without the services of a coach – and she has no money available for payment. 
I don’t think she needs to be stuck – and here’s my response to her:
Wendy – For my Masters Degree thesis I ran a study where I ran growth groups for participants over a six week period. I had about 200 students show up to be included – so I split those; half of them were allowed into groups and the other half were told they could start at the end of the first six week period. We measured for “self-actualization” at the beginning and the end of the six weeks. Surprisingly – ALL of the 200 showed dramatic increase over the six week time frame, even though only half had been in the organized coaching groups. It showed that the key factor was the motivation – if a person was motivated toward personal growth, they would find ways to make that happen even without a formal process in place.
I am a big believer in having a coach. I get a coach for any area where I want rapid improvement. But at times when I could not afford to pay for a coach I found many other ways to tap into the wisdom I needed.
Here are just a few resources that are readily available to anyone ready to move forward:
- Books – libraries and friends make all the great books available
- Seminars – check your local universities for ongoing opportunities
- Listen to 4 or 5 great podcasts each week (the questions I answer in the 48Days Radio Show have “coached” thousands of people)
- Start a mastermind group with others on the path to more success
- Be active in the 48Days.net community – lots of people who will share and support
- Ask a successful person to have lunch with you once a month
I’m confident that with your motivation for growth you are going to make it happen even without a traditional coaching agreement. The reading, online resources, mastermind groups, and personal planning will allow you to bypass those who get “coaching” but have less motivation and drive.
I totally believe “When the student is ready, the teacher will appear” Old Proverb
Love this! When you open yourself up to learning you not only receive what you were looking for but also what you were not looking for. Often that is what gives you the a-ha moments. I’m an avid reader, listen to podcast, participate in online communities and about to join my first master mind group. The one thing I do miss though that seem to have been replaced with Hangout/Skype is the good ol’ brainstorming sessions in person. Thank you for all the greatness you bring to us!
Camilla – that’s one of those things no one can take away from you. It just may require that you initiate those great brainstorming sessions.
Hi Camila! Very well said! I checked out your site and love it! Looks great and the content is first class. I am just starting a blog on the same topic…..if you ever want to start an online brainstorming session, please count me in! Best to you.
Thank you for your kind words Mike! Glad you enjoyed my site. I’m always up for connecting with people. You can email me at camilla[at]nomorehamsterwheel.com.
YES! I can’t forget about the power of taking a “mentor” to lunch. I’ve gotten out of practice in this area. Time to make a few phone calls. Red Robin here I come.
Nice!
I’m living proof this proverb is true. As I started “living it forward” by investing in myself via lunches, mastermind groups, coaching, conferences…my confidence, skills, relationships, and income grew (and continue to do so).
Kent – absolutely! These things provide us with a true “education” and open doors of opportunity. You’re a great example.
It has been a while since I asked a successful person I admire to lunch. It is now on my list and will get done next week. Thanks Dan!
Thank you Dan! I absolutely love learning and growing. I read everyday, listen to podcasts, go to conferences and am in a mastermind. As a result, my business is growing quickly and my clients are getting raises, starting their businesses and writing books. Investing in yourself truly works. Thank you.
Lady Jevonnah,
Once we understand what a true “education” is and how readily it’s available, we can make quantum leaps forward in our own success.
Thank you, Dan – I’ve felt bad at times when faced on either end of this equation. This is a great reminder that when the time is right, things flow almost effortlessly. If there is any resistance, it’s simply time to step back and take a look at what is really going on. Sometimes “no” is simply “not now.” I’m not a religious man, but I’ve come to believe that adage “some of God’s greatest gifts are unanswered prayers”!