I started keeping a diary in my first year of high school. Snippets about those awkward teenage years, falling in love, and becoming a mother were scribbled in a collection of notebooks, hidden in the back of my closet.
I recently revisited those old pages. I noticed that I had only described the events in my life, but rarely explored the meaning of those experiences or what they were teaching me. Through coach training, I discovered that reflection can be intentional and purposeful rather than merely a glance into the past or an expression of self-doubt.
Through reflection, I learned to swap the judgmental inner voice for a curious one. When I started my coaching practice, I frequently wondered whether I was good enough. Now, in place of that thought, I instead ask what I could learn and do differently.
Reflection helps coaches recognise patterns, question their assumptions and commit to continuous learning. It keeps us honest with ourselves and is a professional discipline that drives our growth. Without it, we risk operating on autopilot rather than being fully present.
For clients, the magic often happens between sessions. Reflection moves the coaching conversation forward. I often share a simple yet effective tool that I use with my clients – What? So what? Now what? by Terry Borton. This encourages them to describe the event or issue, analyse it and find a way forward.
My journals tell a different story now. There is more meaning, less judgment and a clearer sense of direction.
Kavita Govindjee
ICFSA Volunteer
