Reflections from ACT Coach Connect and an invitation to join the next session
Last night I had the privilege of facilitating a session at the ACT Coach Connect gathering called The Art of Being Present. Sixteen thoughtful and engaged coaches came together to explore something that sits at the heart of our work but can be hard to define.
What does it really mean to be present as a coach?
Presence shows up throughout the ICF Core Competencies. It is named, taught and assessed. But when we are in the room with a client, presence is not just a competency. It is a way of being. It is what allows us to tune in, let go of performance, and trust the relationship.
The session was simple, reflective and experiential. Coaches were invited to pause, slow down, and notice what happens when we stay with what is unfolding rather than reaching for the next clever question or insight.
There was no script. No need to impress. Just an invitation to notice. And in that space, something meaningful happened.
Deep connections were made. Coaches felt seen and heard. Insights emerged. The room held a quiet energy that came not from doing more, but from being fully present with each other.
Here’s what some of the participants shared after the session:
Fantastic event! Thanks Brendon! Some really good insights gained from the activities and discussions.
This was an incredible event. Thank you Brendon I had a wonderful experience.
Such a valuable evening, and big thanks to Brendon for his skillful facilitation, and to the ICF Australasia ACT team for creating these spaces.
It reminded me again that good technique will only take us so far. If we want to help our clients reach deeper insights and create lasting change, we need to be present.
It was such a joy to run that I’ve decided to offer the session again, this time online.
The Art of Being Present – Online
Tuesday 29 July
12:30 to 1:30 pm AEST
Via Zoom
This session is ideal for coaches at any stage of practice who are looking to reconnect with the relational side of coaching. It is especially useful if you are on the path to PCC or beyond and want to deepen your felt understanding of presence.
We will revisit the same activities and reflections, creating space to explore how presence shows up in your coaching and what becomes possible when you lead with it.
