COACHING DIARIES - WHEN THE STUDENT IS READY, THE TEACHER APPEARS...



The first time you see Hari, you can’t miss the prominent ‘Namam’ on his forehead. It’s tempting to categorize him as a proud Brahmin with all the usual behavioral traits one associates with someone who displays his ‘religion’ so prominently…..

A decade ago, we had worked together and while I can’t say I knew him very well, I was always impressed with his sincerity and willingness to learn. So, a few weeks ago, I was delighted when he asked if I would coach him.

(He is looking ahead two years down the road when his current project ends and wants to invest the time now to better prepare himself for the future – and this investment includes doing an internal deep dive to figure out what he truly wishes to focus on and what capabilities he could start working on now to get there!)

Coaching conversations often tend to have a life of their own. There is something magical that happens when two people are truly connected. This journey of co-creation is exhilarating and humbling. The coach too is transformed with every ‘connect’ and this has indeed been the case with yours truly.

As I listened from my core to what brings Hari truly alive, I felt a shift within me. I paused our coaching. It was a beautiful moment. I realized that Hari emanated something that I am seeking – A deep intuitive belief and faith in traditional practices that not only act as his anchor, but also as a compass to guide his journeys ahead. They say that when the student is ready, the teacher appears. Yep, Hari had found me indeed!

(Shared with permission from Hari)

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