Are You Coachable?

Are you coachable? Have you heard that question before? The question can be posed to those looking to take on a new job or opportunity such as a promotional position or when considering starting your own business. When presented with that question, what’s your initial reaction? Do you respond with an immediate, resounding “Yes, I’m open to learn new things” or do you fill with pride, offended that you were even asked to respond in the first place?

Stop. Don’t respond. Take a minute or two… or ten and consider what is really being asked of you. If pride was present in your response, then take another ten minutes to determine why your response was full of arrogance. Being coachable usually refers to one’s ability to accept feedback from others; one who is open to learn new things that may help them improve themselves. As much as we may say we want to learn new skills, develop new talents or explore new areas, we have to be willing to submit ourselves to someone else’s knowledge and expertise to get us to the new destination.  It’s the act of submission that is a problem for many of us, the point where our arrogance and pride get in the way, blocking our ability to hear and see things differently than we currently believe, thereby limiting our development, rendering us un-coachable.

In order to push beyond these temporary limits, you must first learn to humble yourself. Ironically, allowing submission and humbleness in your life can increase your view and knowledge of the world, moving you closer to your goal. Here are three quick ways to develop a humble nature, making you more coachable in any situation.

Choose to serve others. Our culture strongly promotes individualism and self-serving behaviors, a sharp contrast to this task. Stop looking to be recognized for your contribution but look to support others in their efforts.

Speak well of others. Negative comments made about others is often a way of elevating ourselves by belittling others. Be sincere as you strive to build others up and not simply promote yourself.

Be grateful. By developing an attitude of gratitude, the more aware and thankful you become for all that you currently possess and have access to. Opportunities presented to you are no longer taken for granted but can now be fully realized.

Embracing these simple acts of humbleness can immediately open you up to accepting the gifts others may bring to you. These gifts may come in the form of opportunities that can’t be fully implemented until you are ready and willing to accept coaching and training for proper execution. Learn to receive correction and feedback from others in a gracious manner. Look for the truth in what is offered to you and watch your character develop strength and wisdom as you become coachable.