11 Guiding Lessons for Explosive Growth As A Coach.

Ever heard of the Chinese Bamboo tree?

It’s growth that perfectly mirrors the journey of coaches stepping into the world of coaching.

When you plant a tiny bamboo seed into the soil, little do you know that it’s going to be a test of your patience, persistence and unwavering belief.

One year later there is no movement.

Two years later there are no seeds or sprouts.

You water it day after day, season after season and nothing happens.

Three years later is literally no sign of any visible growth.

Four years later, you start feeling disheartened wondering if all your efforts are even making a difference,

And then suddenly in the fifth year something incredible happens!

The Chinese Bamboo tree suddenly shoots up, growing an astonishing 80 feet in just six weeks!

To a person observing from the outside, it feels like an overnight success story,
But the bamboo sprout knows that’s not true. Because it spent five long years preparing for this moment of rapid expansion.

While everyone had given up seeing no signs of visible growth, the bamboo sprout was gearing up for explosive transformation by silently building its foundations and spreading its roots wide and deep into the ground.

I share this story with the new coaches I mentor at The Coaching Lab and who are serious about transitioning into coaching,

To me, this story holds so many valuable lessons that are perfectly applicable to your growth.

Here are 11 guiding lessons that the Chinese bamboo tree has for new coaches navigating their transition:

Lesson 1: Embrace Imperfect Confidence

Imagine the bamboo seed lying beneath the soil, not waiting for the perfect moment to sprout. It pushes through despite uncertainty, just as you must embrace coaching without flawless confidence. Confidence doesn’t magically appear; it grows as you take action and learn from every experience. Understand that imperfection is part of the journey, and it’s from those imperfections that true confidence emerges.

Lesson 2: Learning Trumps Earning Early On

Think of the bamboo tree’s initial phase as it establishes its roots beneath the surface. Similarly, your first six months as a coach should be focused on nurturing your skills and knowledge. Rather than solely chasing earnings, dedicate this period to immersing yourself in learning. Lay down the groundwork for a thriving coaching practice, knowing that this investment in knowledge will pave the way for long-term success.

Lesson 3: Cultivate the Fundamentals

When the bamboo plant breaks through the surface, it’s fragile yet resilient. Its strength lies in the depth of its roots. Similarly, focus like a laser on the foundational skills of coaching. Understand that 80% of your results will emerge from mastering 20% of the key skills that many coaches often overlook. These fundamentals will serve as your coaching bedrock, providing stability and strength as you grow.

Lesson 4: Experience Over Explanation

As the bamboo stands tall in the face of storms, it derives strength from experience. Similarly, coaching is not just about theoretical concepts; it’s about practical application. Don’t fall into the trap of merely learning concepts—dive into real coaching conversations. Embrace the learning that comes from stumbling, and reflect on the reasons behind those stumbling blocks. This kind of experiential learning, what I call “learning in the trenches,” is where true growth happens.

Lesson 5: Coach the Coach Within

Think of hiring a coach as nurturing your growth, much like the bamboo draws sustenance from the soil. Just as the bamboo matures under the guidance of nature, you too can evolve through mentorship. Invest in yourself by hiring a coach who can provide rapid feedback on your coaching conversations. This process allows you to continuously refine your coaching skills, ensuring your growth remains constant.

Lesson 6: Uncover Your Unique Path

Consider the bamboo’s twisting growth patterns—your personal journey is equally unique. Reflect on your struggles, successes, and the lessons you’ve learned along the way. These insights are the building blocks of your distinctive coaching methodology. Embrace your personal narrative, for it’s through your own experiences that you’ll connect more deeply with your clients.

Lesson 7: Master the Dance of Energy

As the bamboo sways gracefully in the wind, think about your energy as a coach. Your primary currency is your energy, and mastering its ebb and flow is essential. Become more aware of your energy, guard it against depletion, and align it with your coaching practice. Recognize that coaching is, at its core, an art of managing the energy dynamics between you and your client.

Lesson 8: Shift the Focus Beyond Yourself

Before stepping into a coaching interaction, consider the bamboo leaves rustling in the breeze. Ask yourself, “What if this conversation isn’t about me?” Shifting the focus away from yourself fosters a more genuine and client-centric coaching approach. This mindset shift opens doors to authentic connections and helps you truly understand your clients’ needs.

Lesson 9: 200% Commitment

Much like the bamboo’s unwavering growth, your commitment is your superpower. Settle for nothing less than a 200% commitment – 100% from you and 100% from your client. Hold yourself to the same unwavering standards that you set for your clients. It’s this level of dedication that fuels the transformation in both you and your clients.

Lesson 10: Building Deep Caring Relationships

Think about the intricate network of interconnected roots that the bamboo forms beneath the ground. In the same way, coaching isn’t just about the transfer of information—it’s about building profound, transformative relationships one conversation at a time. Focus on nurturing your deep care for your client’ success and watch the magic unfold.

Lesson 11: A Responsibility Worthy of COACH

Imagine the towering bamboo that stands tall, providing shelter and support. Similarly, having “COACH” next to your name is more than a title—it’s a responsibility. It signifies your role as a guide, a pillar of support, and a beacon of transformation. Carry this responsibility with respect and humility, always mindful of the impact you can have on others’ lives.

As you embark on this transformative journey, let the story of the Chinese Bamboo tree be a reminder of growth, resilience, and the beauty of progress.
Embrace these lessons, nurture your skills, and stand tall as a coach who makes a profound impact.

Which lesson can you benefit from most in your coaching practice?

Keep growing strong,

Coach Sid

PS: If you are a new coach who is serious about building your coaching business and preparing for liftoff like the Chinese bamboo tree, I invite you to check out The Coaching Lab – an intimate 3 month mentoring program I run to help you navigate this transition successfully.