Lynne Gavin: Well-being and Leadership Coach

SCHOOL-BASED COACHING SESSIONS
Investing in the development of school staff is one of the best decisions we can make as school leaders. It is essential to growing excellence and inspiring success.

Do you want your staff to:
• Feel valued and supported?
• Become more confident and effective in their roles?
• Access new techniques and perspectives in order to make better decisions?
• Deal with issues and concerns before they become too big?
• Improve their ability to empower, develop and challenge others?
• Maximise their professional potential without sacrificing personal well-being?
• Thrive, not just survive?

School-based coaching sessions provide staff at any career level with the opportunity to access the skills of an experienced coach. They can discuss any topic that they feel is getting in the way of them being successful and happy at work, such as mental health and well-being issues, a specific work-related issue, career growth, managing transitions and change, setting boundaries, managing relationships and difficult conversations, personal circumstances and emotional support and work-life balance. Coaching is tailored to the individual and is entirely confidential.

Why not invest in your staff by giving them the high-quality, tailored support they need and deserve to become the best they can be?

Get in touch for a chat.

“The single biggest way to impact an organisation is to focus on leadership development. There is almost no limit to the potential of an organisation that recruits good people, raises them up as leaders, and continually develops them.”— John Maxwell.

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We all face challenges, obstacles, and moments when we could use that little extra push. That's when having a strong support system is key. People who lift us up, cheer us on, and remind us that we're not alone.

Who gives you a boost when you need it?

Do you have a friend or colleague who understands you, listens without judgement and provides a shoulder to lean on when you need it most?

Or is it a family member who is there to offer a comforting hug or some wise advice?

Perhaps it’s a coach providing encouragement and guidance and helping you to see your true potential and unlock it?

Remember, we all need a boost sometimes, and asking others for support is okay.

"Find a group of people who challenge and inspire you, spend a lot of time with them, and it will change your life." – Amy Poehler

Remember, setbacks are temporary, and with persistence, resilience, and the right coping strategies, you can overcome them and continue moving forward.

BE KIND TO YOURSELF

When things get challenging, it's more important than ever to prioritise self-care and self-love.

Remember, you deserve kindness and compassion, especially from yourself!

What do you need today?

Take a moment to tune in and listen. Gift yourself something that will lift your spirits and bring you joy. It could be sharing laughter with a good friend, boosting your confidence through positive affirmations, taking time to appreciate the beauty around you, or reaching out for help.

Whatever it is, choose to be kind to yourself. You're worth it!

What do you need today?

Remember, “The most powerful relationship you will ever have is with yourself.”

Tending to your own needs isn't selfish – it’s necessary.

Make some time for you today!

Fear is as natural as breathing, yet it has the power to paralyse us, stunt our growth, and prevent us from chasing our dreams. It whispers doubts into our ears, making us question our abilities and potential.

It's easy to feel overwhelmed by fear but remember, the first step to overcoming it is identifying and understanding it.

What are you scared of?

Why does it scare you?

Once you shine a light on your fear, you'll find it's not as big as it seemed in the shadows.

Remember, on the other side of fear, amazing things await!

Feeling stressed? You're not alone. Self-care is an essential aspect of maintaining overall well-being, particularly when it comes to mental health. Taking time to prioritise self-care can help reduce stress, increase relaxation, and improve mood.

Here are five manageable tips to help alleviate stress and foster mental well-being:

1.FOCUS ON YOUR BREATHING: Paying attention to your breath can calm your mind and balance your emotions.

2. DO THINGS THAT BRING YOU JOY: Engage in activities that make you happy. Whether it's reading, painting, or dancing to your favourite tunes, give yourself a break from daily pressures.

3. STAY CONNECTED: Reach out to loved ones. A conversation with a friend or family member can work wonders for reducing isolation and lifting your spirits.

4. EMBRACE GRATITUDE: Each day, jot down three things you're grateful for. This practice can shift your focus from stress to positivity.

5. MOVE YOUR BODY: Stretch, go for a walk or do some gentle yoga. Releasing physical tension can really help to ease mental stress.

It's important to make self-care a consistent part of daily life to promote good mental health and overall wellness. Remember, reducing stress is a journey, not a race. Start with one step and build from there.

Prioritise your mental well-being - because you matter.

How are you doing today? Really….how are you?

In the hustle and bustle of life, it's easy to forget that simple question. But it's essential. Checking in allows us to acknowledge our feelings, address any issues, and take steps towards feeling better.

If you find that you're not doing so well today, that's okay. It's okay not to be okay. Here are some things you can do:

1. TAKE A MOMENT FOR YOURSELF: Find a quiet place, breathe deeply, and just be. Sometimes, silence is the best therapy.

2. TALK ABOUT IT: Reach out to someone you trust - a friend, family member, or coach. Sharing your worries is a great way to lighten your load.

3. GET MOVING: Physical activity, whether it's a brisk walk, yoga, or a dance party in your living room, can help boost your mood.

4. DO SOMETHING YOU LOVE: Read a book, listen to your favourite music, paint, cook – anything that brings you joy.

5. PRACTICE MINDFULNESS: Focus on the present moment. Try meditation or guided imagery to help soothe your mind.

Remember, it's important to check in with your friends too. A simple "How are you?" can mean the world to someone struggling.

Life is busy – with deadlines, meetings, emails - a never-ending to-do list.

Sometimes, it isn't about doing more; it's about doing less.

Maybe it's less hours, fewer self-imposed pressures, or less multi-tasking. Perhaps it's less perfectionism, less saying 'yes' when you want to say 'no', or less time on your devices after work.

Doing less of these can mean doing more of what enriches us - more time with loved ones, more hobbies, more relaxation, and above all, more joy.

What could you do less of today?

Remember, your well-being matters, so strive for balance, not burnout. Take time to pause and to breathe. It's okay to slow down, and it's okay to prioritise you!

Do you ever feel like the world is spinning too fast, and you can’t keep up? Are there days when it feels like your to-do list is never ending and that nothing gets done no matter how hard you try?

Feeling overwhelmed happens when our minds are filled with too many tasks or ideas simultaneously. It can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, fatigue and even physical illness. But the good news is that overwhelm isn't something we have to live with forever; there are steps we can take to manage it more effectively. Here are five tips that will help:

1. ACKNOWLEDGE YOUR FEELINGS
It’s important to understand that feeling overwhelmed is a normal and natural response to stress. There’s no need to feel ashamed or guilty about feeling this way.

2. IDENTIFY THE SOURCE OF YOUR OVERWHELM
Once you’ve acknowledged your feelings, the next step is to identify the source of your overwhelm. What is it that’s causing you to feel so overwhelmed? Is it a specific project or task? Or is it a general sense of stress and anxiety? Once you’ve identified the source of your overwhelm, you can begin to develop a plan for managing it.

3. SET PRIORITIES AND MAKE A PLAN
When you have a lot on your plate, it can be helpful to sit down and figure out what is most important and what can wait. Once you have a list of priorities, you can start planning how to tackle each one. This will help you feel more organised and in control, reducing feelings of overwhelm.

4. BE KIND TO YOURSELF
One of the best ways to do this is to practise self-compassion. This means treating yourself with the same kindness, care, and understanding you would show to a good friend.

5. ASK FOR HELP
This doesn’t mean that you’re weak or incapable; it just means that you recognise that you can’t do everything on your own. Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Managing overwhelm isn't about avoiding stress or challenges but learning how to navigate them effectively. Be kind to yourself, seek support when needed, and never underestimate your capacity to overcome and grow stronger from difficulties.

“Surround yourself with positive people who believe in your dreams, encourage your ideas, support your ambitions, and bring out the best in you."

This is a gentle reminder that the right people in our lives can act as catalysts for growth, propelling us towards our dreams and helping us become the best versions of ourselves.

In an article titled “What do Happy People do?”, two psychologists state that happy people are more sociable. They found that, on average, “very happy” people socialise on 11 more occasions a year with relatives than unhappy people do, seven more times with neighbours and five more times with friends.

Positive people can inspire us, motivate us, and remind us of our potential even in challenging times. So, who is supporting you?

As you move forward on your journey, remember to surround yourself with those who believe in you and bring out the best in you.

The key to unlocking your dreams often lies in the company you keep.

“Take the time to do what you love to do this weekend.”

Life can be full on. So, why not use this weekend to set aside the deadlines and demands and take time to rest, recharge, and, most importantly, relax.

Whether it's diving into a good book, taking a long walk in nature, spending quality time with loved ones, or simply enjoying a cup of coffee in silence, make sure you dedicate some time to the things YOU love.

Remember, self-care isn't selfish; it's necessary. You can't pour from an empty cup.

Have a wonderful weekend!

"Your life is your story; write it well and edit it often" - Unknown.

Have you ever thought that life is like a book, with each day representing a new page?

Every decision we make, every experience we have, and every lesson we learn contributes to the narrative of our lives.

Each one of us has a unique story to tell. Embracing your story means acknowledging past experiences and learning from them. Even the most challenging chapters can lead to valuable lessons and personal growth.

The idea of "editing" our lives might seem unusual at first, but it's a powerful tool for self-improvement. Editing means reassessing our choices, habits, and relationships and making changes to align them with our goals and values. Like writers revise their work to create a final draft, we can continuously edit our lives to ensure we live the best version of ourselves.

It's never too late to rewrite your story. Don't be afraid to let go of old habits or beliefs that no longer serve you.

Your life is your story, and only you have the power to write it well and edit it often. By taking control of your narrative, embracing your experiences, and continuously reassessing your choices, you can create a life story that is both meaningful and inspiring.

So, grab your metaphorical pen, and start writing the most compelling story you can!

“NO HUMAN BEING IS IMMUNE TO ADVERSITY OR PERSONAL SETBACKS.” – HILLARY CLINTON

Sometimes life has a way of throwing us curveballs. Setbacks and disappointments are a natural part of life, and we all face them at some point. Perhaps, you’ve:

1. Been passed over for that dream job.
2. Failed to achieve a personal goal, such as losing weight.
3. Not been recognised or appreciated for your hard work and contributions.
4. Failed a driving test or other important exam.
5. Had to cope with the end of a long-term friendship or relationship.

These experiences often challenge our sense of self-worth, disrupt our plans, and evoke a range of intense emotions. When we invest time, energy, and hope into a particular outcome, only to have it fall short of our expectations, it can leave us feeling disheartened and powerless. Our confidence may waver as we question our abilities and decisions, and the emotional turmoil - including sadness, frustration, anger, or anxiety - can make it challenging to maintain motivation and focus.

Coping with setbacks can be challenging, but there are things you can do to help you manage the situation and move forward.

1. ACKNOWLEDGE YOUR EMOTIONS: Allow yourself to feel and process the emotions that come with the setback. Acknowledging and validating your feelings is an important step TOWARDS HEALING AND RECOVERY.
2. PRACTISE SELF-COMPASSION: Be kind to yourself during this difficult time. Remind yourself that setbacks are a natural part of life, and it's okay to struggle with them. Treat yourself with the same understanding and empathy that you would offer to a friend facing a similar situation.
3. SEEK SUPPORT FROM OTHERS: Reach out to friends, family members, or coaches who can provide encouragement, advice, or a listening ear. Sharing your experiences and feelings with others can help relieve some of the burden and provide valuable perspective.
4. RE-EVALUATE AND SET NEW GOALS: Take time to reflect on the setback and consider what you can learn from it. Use this knowledge to re-evaluate your goals and develop a new plan of action. Break down your objectives into smaller, achievable steps, and focus on progress rather than perfection.
5. ENGAGE IN SELF-CARE AND STRESS-REDUCTION ACTIVITIES: Prioritise your physical and emotional well-being by engaging in activities that promote relaxation, joy, and a sense of accomplishment. This might include exercise, spending time in nature, practising mindfulness, or pursuing hobbies and interests that bring you happiness.

Remember, setbacks are temporary, and with persistence, resilience, and the right coping strategies, you can overcome them and continue moving forward.

"Everything you've ever wanted is on the other side of fear." - George Addair

Taking risks can be terrifying.

Feeling a little (or a lot) of fear when stepping outside our comfort zones is natural. But embracing vulnerability is key to unlocking our fullest potential.

Just think…

o If you’d never tried that new exercise class, you wouldn't have discovered a love for Pilates.
o If you hadn't applied for that promotion, you might still be stuck in a role that makes you feel unfulfilled.

Fear might protect us from getting hurt but can also hold us back from experiencing joy and growth.

So, why not take a leap of faith? Identify one fear that's been holding you back and face it head-on.

Remember, you’re brave, you’re strong, and you’re capable of amazing things!

BE KIND TO YOURSELF

When things get challenging, it's more important than ever to prioritise self-care and self-love.

Remember, you deserve kindness and compassion, especially from yourself!

What do you need today?

Take a moment to tune in and listen. Gift yourself something that will lift your spirits and bring you joy. It could be sharing laughter with a good friend, boosting your confidence through positive affirmations, taking time to appreciate the beauty around you, or reaching out for help.

Whatever it is, choose to be kind to yourself. You're worth it!

"The first step towards getting somewhere is to decide you're not going to stay where you are."

It sounds easy, doesn’t it? So, why do we often choose to stay in situations when we’re unhappy and not thriving? There are lots of reasons:

FEAR OF CHANGE: It's natural to feel intimidated by change, and it can be tempting to stay in a familiar situation rather than face the unknown. Job searching, interviewing, and adapting to new work environments can be very daunting. Remember, though, whilst you may feel attached to your routines and your colleagues, stepping out of your comfort zone is where growth happens.

LACK OF CONFIDENCE: Doubting your ability to find a better job or worrying about performing well in a new position is common. However, this lack of self-confidence can keep you stuck in an unhappy job.

FINANCIAL SECURITY: The need for a steady income is often the primary reason we stay in unsatisfying jobs. The fear of losing financial stability can outweigh the desire to pursue a more fulfilling career.

LOYALTY: It’s natural to feel a sense of loyalty to your employer, especially if you've been with them for a long time. However, remember that your personal happiness and growth should also be a priority.

HAVING UNCLEAR GOALS: Sometimes we stay in a job because we don't have a clear idea of what we want to do or what would make us happy. Taking time to explore your passions and interests is key.

Ultimately, the reasons for staying in an unhappy job are personal and unique to each of us.

How happy are you in your role?

Taking the time to reflect on your career and assess your happiness is crucial for personal growth and long-term satisfaction. By being honest with yourself and having the courage to make changes, you can empower yourself to pursue a more fulfilling career path and unlock your true potential.

It’s a busy time of year, with assessments, report writing, end-of-year plays and events, sports days and the day-to-day demands of the classroom. So, it's more important than ever to prioritise your well-being and take care of yourself. Here are five tips that will help:

TAKE BREAKS DURING THE DAY
If you're feeling overwhelmed or stressed during the day, taking some time out for yourself is key. Step away from your work and take a few minutes to clear your head and relax. You'll be able to focus better when you return.

CONNECT WITH NATURE
Spending time in nature has been shown to have numerous benefits for mental health. Studies have shown that being in nature can help to reduce stress levels, increase happiness, and improve attention span. So, take some time to go outside and enjoy the fresh air!

SPEND TIME WITH FRIENDS AND FAMILY
Surrounding yourself with loved ones is one of the best things you can do for your mental health. Spending time with those who make you happy can help to reduce stress levels and improve your overall mood. So, make sure to schedule some quality time with your favourite people!

LISTEN TO MUSIC
Listening to music can help to change your mood and provide an emotional outlet. Whether you're listening to calm, classical music or upbeat pop songs, music can be a great form of self-care.

DO SOMETHING CREATIVE
Engaging in creative activities can help boost your mood and provide an outlet for self-expression. Whether you enjoy painting, writing, or crafting, doing something creative can be very therapeutic.

By putting yourself first, you’ll be better able to meet demands, manage your stress, and stay positive. And remember, most importantly, be kind to yourself and cut yourself some slack if things don’t go as planned. Everyone makes mistakes, and nobody is perfect!

Are you a school leader looking to take your skills to the next level?

Then, leadership coaching might be just what you need! Coaching can help you to:

1. PRIORITISE AND ALIGN YOUR GOALS: With the help of a coach, you can focus on what's important and determine where to focus your energy and resources to achieve your goals.

2. DEVELOP A BROADER PERSPECTIVE: Coaching can help you see all sides of an issue, develop creative solutions, and make informed decisions that benefit your school.

3. IMPROVE YOUR COMMUNICATION SKILLS: Whether through active listening or articulating your vision more clearly, coaching can help you build stronger connections and have more productive conversations with colleagues, staff, and parents.

4. INCREASE YOUR SELF-AWARENESS: With a clearer understanding of your strengths and weaknesses and areas for growth, you can lead your team with greater confidence and inspire them to achieve their full potential.

5. OVERCOME LIMITING BELIEFS: Coaching can help you identify and overcome limiting beliefs that may be holding you back from reaching your full potential.

Leadership coaching is personalised to your unique needs and can provide you with reflection time, a sounding board and a valuable thought partner.

Why not get in touch for a chat about how coaching can help you reach your professional goals!

Fear can be powerful and can hold us back from pursuing our passions and living our best lives. But what if you could overcome that fear and chase your dreams with confidence and determination?

Would you:

• Travel the world?
• Start your own business?
• Learn a new language?
• Write a book?
• Take up a new hobby?
• Take on a leadership role?
• Move home?

Whatever it is, Mark Twain's words remind us that it's better to try and fail than to never try at all. We all have the potential to achieve great things, but we need courage and perseverance to take risks, embrace challenges, and push ourselves beyond our comfort zone.

So, if fear is holding you back, remember that you have the power to conquer it. Take that first step and see where it leads you. Who knows what amazing opportunities and experiences await you on the other side?

Do you tell yourself you can’t when, in fact, you can? Do you struggle with confidence? Many people do, but the good news is that it's a skill that can be developed and strengthened over time. Here are 5 tips to help:

1. UNDERSTAND WHAT CONFIDENCE IS
Confidence is not about being perfect or never making mistakes. It's about having the courage to move forward even when you're feeling scared or unsure. So, the first step to building confidence is to understand that it's normal to feel scared or unsure at times. Everyone feels this way, even confident people.

2. GET TO KNOW YOURSELF
Spend some time thinking about your strengths and weaknesses, your likes and dislikes, and what makes you unique. The better you understand yourself, the more confident you will feel in who you are.

3. TAKE TIME TO PREPARE
If you know that you are going to be in a situation where you will need to be confident, such as a job interview or a presentation, take some time to prepare beforehand. This will help you to feel more confident when the time comes.

4. SURROUND YOURSELF WITH POSITIVE PEOPLE
When you are around people who are supportive and encouraging, it will be easier for you to stay confident in yourself. Avoid spending time with people who bring you down or make you feel bad about yourself.

5. PRACTISE POSITIVE SELF-TALK
If we are constantly putting ourselves down or telling ourselves that we can’t do something, it will be very difficult to feel confident. Instead, try to practise positive self-talk by saying things like “I can do this” or “I am capable and competent”. These positive affirmations can help to increase your self-confidence over time.

And…get painting!

Are you feeling stuck or unhappy? As Dolly Parton once wisely said, "If you don't like the path you're walking, pave another one."

It's okay to acknowledge when things aren't quite right and to take steps to steer your life in a different direction. Making a change in life can feel daunting, but it can also be exciting and incredibly empowering. When you choose to pave a new path, you're taking control of your life and creating a future that truly reflects who you are and what you want.

And remember, you don't have to do it alone. Seeking support from family, friends, or a coach can help make the transition smoother. And while change may not always come easily, it’s worth it in the end.

So, why not take that first step? Take a deep breath, believe in yourself and know that you have the strength and resilience to create the life you want.

Sometimes we try to be something that we're not or worry too much about what other people think. But the truth is, we're all human, and we all have our flaws and imperfections.
This is just a quick reminder that it's okay….

🌧️ To have bad days
🤦 To make mistakes
👀 To be yourself
🙋‍♀️ To ask for help
🧘‍♀️ To take a break
🚫 To say no

Instead of trying to hide your flaws or pretending they don't exist, embrace them. Be proud of who you are, and don't be afraid to show it. And remember, asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

So, if you're feeling down or stressed out, take a deep breath and know that you're not alone. It's okay to be perfectly imperfect.💕

“The single biggest way to impact an organisation is to focus on leadership development. There is almost no limit to the potential of an organisation that recruits good people, raises them up as leaders, and continually develops them.”— John Maxwell.

SCHOOL-BASED COACHING SESSIONS

Investing in the development of school staff is one of the best decisions that we, as school leaders, can make. It is essential to growing excellence and inspiring success.

Do you want your staff to:
• Feel valued and supported?
• Become more confident and effective in their roles?
• Access new techniques and perspectives in order to make better decisions?
• Deal with issues and concerns before they become too big?
• Improve their ability to empower, develop and challenge others?
• Maximise their professional potential without sacrificing personal well-being?
• Thrive, not just survive?

School-based coaching sessions provide staff at any career level with the opportunity to access the skills of an experienced coach. They can discuss any topic that they feel is getting in the way of them being successful and happy at work, such as mental health and well-being issues, a specific work-related issue, career growth, managing transitions and change, setting boundaries, managing relationships and difficult conversations, personal circumstances and emotional support and work-life balance. Coaching is tailored to the individual and is completely confidential.

Why not invest in your staff by giving them the high-quality, tailored support they need and deserve to become the best they can be?

Get in touch for a chat.

Are you feeling stuck or unsatisfied in your current job?

It could be time for a career evaluation. When we're caught up in the day-to-day grind, it's easy to forget to take a step back and evaluate how things are going. So, here are some tips to help you get started:

1. CREATE A CAREER EVALUATION CHECKLIST:
List all the aspects of your career that you would like to evaluate, such as hours worked, salary, job satisfaction, work culture, personal growth opportunities, and relationships with colleagues and leaders.

2. TAKE SOME TIME OUT:
Set aside dedicated time each week away from work to focus solely on assessing your situation and thinking about any changes that need to be made.

3. GATHER FEEDBACK FROM OTHERS:
Ask trusted friends and colleagues for their opinions or seek input from experienced professionals through coaching/mentoring.

4. ASK YOURSELF SOME IMPORTANT QUESTIONS
E.g. What are you passionate about? What are your skills and strengths? What are your values? What do you want out of life? What are your long-term goals? What is your ideal work environment?

Taking a good look at your career isn't always easy, but it's essential if you want to ensure that you're growing both personally and professionally. With some dedicated planning, thoughtful reflection, and input from others, you'll be able to gain clarity on where you'd like your professional journey to go next.

The way we think can be a significant obstacle to success. Thinking traps involve irrational or illogical thinking patterns that lead us down the wrong path and prevent us from making positive life changes.

Here are five common thinking traps and tips on how to identify and avoid them:

1. ALL OR NOTHING THINKING: Do you ever see only two options in any situation – the best and worst possible scenarios? This can lead to premature conclusions and overgeneralisations, impacting your ability to find a middle ground or compromise. To avoid this trap, try to look for the shades of grey in any situation and consider the possibilities between “all” and “nothing.”

2. JUMPING TO CONCLUSIONS: Have you ever assumed something to be true without enough evidence or information? This can lead to snap judgments about people or events that may not be accurate. To avoid this trap, question your assumptions and seek more evidence before reaching a conclusion.

3. MIND READING: Do you sometimes think you know what someone else is thinking or feeling without actually asking them? This misconception can lead to misunderstandings and hurt feelings. To avoid this trap, ask the person directly how they’re feeling and why they may be reacting a certain way.

4. CATASTROPHISING: Do you tend to always expect the worst possible outcome? This can lead to worry, anxiety, and possibly even more irrational thinking. To avoid this trap, try to maintain an optimistic outlook and stay focused on the present.

5. SHOULD STATEMENTS: Do you often put unrealistic demands on yourself and others? This can lead to guilt, resentment and a sense of failure. To avoid this trap, try replacing “should” statements with more positive words like “could” and “would.”

Remember, by recognising and avoiding these common thinking traps, you can become more mindful of your thought patterns and make positive changes in your life.

Which thinking traps do you recognise in yourself?