“Don’t judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds you plant.” — Robert Louis Stevenson
This quotation came to mind after I had reconnected with a client I worked with maybe 10 years ago, who had gone on to learn so many things and achieve so much, all through her own efforts and commitment.
As a coach we plant seeds in our clients’ minds. This may be in the form of a new idea, mentioned in passing for the client to explore further if they so wish, or the sharing of relevant resources (books, quotes, spiritual teachers) or stories of others’ journeys.
We may nurture the seed a little, through discussion or encouragement, then it is up to the client to do the work of growing it. And maybe it is divine intelligence that dictates whether the seed grows into a strong tree with deep roots: into a person who provides security, stability and support to others. Or perhaps beautiful flowers blossom: creating a person who radiates happiness, positivity and warmth, thus inspiring or soothing others.
I love the ripple effect of coaching! I may never know what growth (if any), comes from the seeds I sow in my coaching conversations; I can only hope that I’m making a difference in someone’s life. And that’s a day to be judged as well done.
This is a great quote. Sometimes in modern life people want immediate results. But quite often you need to give things time to grow, including yourself. And I think this quote encapsulates that, and I definitely feel it relates to the role of coach and client.