Agile coaching is a journey of continuous learning, self-reflection, and growth.
In a recent Agile Uprising podcast, hosts Chris Murman, Jay Hrcsko, and Andrew Leff engage in a candid conversation about a topic often overlooked yet profoundly impactful in the realm of agile coaching—pride.
The Veiled Challenge of Pride in Agile Coaching
The conversation begins with an exploration of pride, a facet of human nature that can either propel us forward or become a significant stumbling block. Murman shares a personal revelation – the realization that pride, often disguised as self-confidence, can inadvertently alienate others. Agile coaches, tasked with fostering collaboration and openness, must grapple with this nuanced aspect of their own personalities.
Mirror, Mirror on the Wall, Give Me Feedback That Won’t Make Me Bawl
Jay chimes in, emphasizing the critical role of feedback in an agile coach’s journey. Feedback, when approached with humility, serves as a mirror reflecting our blind spots. The hosts candidly admit to revisiting their own podcasts, embracing the discomfort of listening to themselves, and acknowledging the areas where improvement is needed. The message is clear: the path toward mastery involves a willingness to confront one’s shortcomings.
The Power of Vulnerability in Agile Coaching
Leff introduces the concept of vulnerability, a key ingredient in the agile coaching repertoire. True growth, both on a personal and professional level, often stems from acknowledging vulnerability. The hosts encourage listeners to try a powerful exercise – recording themselves in action and analyzing the footage. This raw form of self-assessment sheds light on communication nuances, facial expressions, and unintended messages that might be sent to those being coached.
Pride in Organizational Culture
The conversation takes a fascinating turn as the hosts ponder the role of pride in organizational culture. The analogy of putting an organization’s culture on the couch and delving into its anxieties, neuroses, and pride-induced behaviors is thought-provoking. It sparks a crucial question – can we truly understand and transform an organization without first comprehending its underlying psychological makeup?
The Challenge of Receiving Feedback
Leff challenges the listeners to reflect on how they receive feedback. The delicate balance between respecting the giver’s opinion and appreciating the delivery method is explored. It’s a call to embrace feedback not as criticism but as a catalyst for improvement. The hosts share personal anecdotes of adjusting their own behavior based on constructive feedback, highlighting the transformative power of this practice.
Join the Conversation
Agile coaching transcends merely implementing methodologies and frameworks; it’s a human-centric approach demanding continual introspection. By embracing vulnerability, actively seeking and giving feedback, and cultivating a culture of openness, agile coaches navigate the intricate waters of pride. In doing so, they unlock new levels of effectiveness in their transformative work for the organizations they serve.
