I get paid for blessings. I read this concept in Seth Godin’s book, Linchpin, and realized that it sums up my attitude over the last six months. This wonderful shift in mindset started earlier this year when I read another powerful book called The Prosperous Coach by Rich Litvin and Steve Chandler. My attention was hooked by the idea of giving compassionately, giving for giving’s sake, and not to get, because in the end, you will get more than you imagine.
After I read The Prosperous Coach, I began to approach my coaching practice with this in mind. I started “hallway coaching” without resentment that my co-workers, who were benefiting, should pay me or hire me. I coached without charge, because they needed some help, in those moments, that I could provide.
I also gave of myself in terms of free workshops at my job. Initially I was opposed to the idea of helping my employer, an organization, in my eyes, that could not care less about me. I did not want them to benefit from my extra effort while not being compensated for it financially, let alone without receiving recognition of any sort. But after sitting with this idea, an idea my coach gave me, I decided it was perfect. I could “hallway coach” my peers more formally. I could get experience with putting on workshops. And, I could feel purpose and meaning in my life as I inspired others to think and act differently and improve their lives.
In doing these two things wholeheartedly and completely willingly, I have changed not only my outlook on the situation, but the situation itself. I have positioned myself to be a linchpin, an indispensable person, in my field. It’s amazing what a simple shift in thinking can do.
Photo Credit: Eric Silva