This evening, I had the privilege of facilitating a deeply meaningful group coaching session as part of Coaching Co.’s “Momentum in Motion” series. This particular session was titled “The Silver Lining: Finding Clarity and Calm in the Chaos,” and it turned out to be not just an impactful evening for the participants, but also a profound personal learning experience for me.
Interestingly, as I guided the group through the session’s themes, I found myself confronting my own challenges in real-time; navigating a chaotic situation that demanded my full attention, inner strength, and calm. This dual role of coach and learner transformed the session into something even more powerful, reinforcing the idea that growth is a lifelong process and that we’re all works in progress.
A Conversation that Mattered
The focus of tonight’s discussion was on navigating the chaos that life often presents and finding ways to ground ourselves despite the turbulence. Together, we explored a wide range of topics and challenges that the participants face in their personal and professional lives. Some key points included:
- Handling frustrations and navigating disagreements while maintaining composure.
- Finding inner peace after arguments and learning to move on from chaotic or stressful situations.
- Recognizing and managing burnout, particularly in environments that prioritize the “hustle culture.”
- Breaking free from overthinking, which so often amplifies stress and prevents clarity.
- Balancing time effectively, not just to achieve goals but to safeguard out mental and emotional well-being.
- Supporting others in their own journeys toward peace, calm, and resilience.
The session wasn’t merely theoretical – it was practical, immersive, and collaborative. We brainstormed techniques, strategies, and actionable ideas to help us all manage chaos and tap into calmness. Some of the recurring themes and practices that emerged included organizing, decluttering, journaling, exercise, running, and perhaps the most poignant reminder: “observe but not absorb.”
This idea of observing without absorbing resonated deeply with the group. It served as a gentle yet powerful way of protecting one’s inner peace while being fully present in external challenges. Whether it’s workplace dynamics, personal relationships, or societal stressors, the ability to pause, observe, and respond without allowing negativity to seep into our core is a skill worth cultivating.
Grounding the Session in Purpose
One of the tools that framed our discussion was the GASCI coaching model, a powerful framework I learned from my mentor, Dr. Masni Musthapha. The GASCI model provided us with a structured way to approach the chaos in our lives, step by step. The model emphasizes:
1️⃣ Setting a clear goal—defining what we want to achieve or overcome.
2️⃣ Brainstorming alternatives—considering different pathways to achieve the goal.
3️⃣ Strategizing—selecting and planning an alternative that feels most aligned.
4️⃣ Escalating on consequences—understanding potential outcomes and preparing for them.
5️⃣ Action planning—moving forward with confidence and clarity.
This structure offered both the participants and myself a tangible process to work through uncertainty and complexity. It was rewarding to see how the group engaged with it, using it to break down their personal challenges and begin crafting solutions.
Gratitude and Reflection
I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Coaching Co. for creating the Momentum in Motion series and for allowing me to be part of this transformative journey. I’m equally thankful to the six young and brilliant participants who brought their energy, vulnerability, and openness to the session. Their willingness to share, reflect, and grow made the evening truly special.
What made this session even more unique was the reciprocal nature of learning. While I was there to guide and facilitate, the insights, questions, and reflections from the participants offered me valuable perspectives that I’ll carry forward. It served as a beautiful reminder that coaching is not just about providing answers but about creating a shared space for exploration and growth.
Looking Ahead
Tonight’s session reaffirmed that amidst chaos, there is always a silver lining waiting to be discovered. Whether through organizing, decluttering, journaling, running, or simply pausing to “observe but not absorb,” we all have tools at our disposal to move through challenges with grace.
To anyone reading this: If you’re currently navigating chaos, what’s your strategy for finding clarity? How do you stay grounded in the storm? I’d love to hear your thoughts.
And to my fellow coaches, mentors, and leaders – let’s continue to foster these meaningful conversations and create spaces where growth, connection, and transformation can flourish. Together, we can help others (and ourselves) find the calm within the chaos.
#MomentumInMotion #Growth #FindingCalm