The Cycle of Transformation
The Cycle of Transformation, made up of the three phases of Life, Death, and New Life, is an organic process that occurs in nature. Plants sprout and grow, they fruit and flower, then they die and give seed or become compost and next year’s soil. In coaching, the cycle of transformation is a way of thinking about how clients change and how coaching can support the change.
The “Life” phase is characterized by day-to-day ordinary living and engaging in the familiar, which will eventually result in a sense of discomfort and a call to change some aspect of life.
Questions for the “Life” phase:
What are you clinging to?
What’s the cost of resisting change?
The “Death” phase is normally not a literal death but a metaphorical death. The person will need to surrender to the change. There may be confusion or disorientation that gives way to loss and grief. This phase can be characterized by curiosity and letting go of old ways of being, identities, roles, and outdated dreams.
Questions for the “Death” phase:
What is dying?
What are you ready to let go of?
The “New Life” phase is when sparks emerge from the dark. People often need a leap of faith to move forward. There is the possibility of stepping into a new way of being with a stronger connection to the real self.
Questions for the “New Life” phase:
What’s possible?
What’s opening up now?
Coaching application: During one of your coaching sessions this week, introduce The Cycle of Transformation to one of your clients for whom it would be relevant. What insights do they get as a result?
Life application: Which of the three phases are you in right now? Use one of the relevant questions above as a journaling prompt.
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About the Newsletter
Upbuild Coaching Bits is for anyone who wants to become a better leader, manager, parent, partner, friend, or coach. Every Thursday, you will receive a concise email with wisdom on a foundational coaching teaching, along with a specific practice, that you can apply immediately.
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