Coaching Boomers through the high-jump learning curves

September 2, 9:14 AMSF Boomers ExaminerSuzanna Stinnett

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According to the International Coach Federation,
“Coaching is partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential.”

We’re in a huge cultural transition, redefining how we work, what our workplaces offer, and what a career path really is. While it’s clearly stressful for most of us to consider sweeping changes in any aspect of our lives, there’s no getting around the fact that the entire context of work is changing.

Second careers, also called “echo careers,” are appealing to many Boomers, for several reasons. Boomers want meaning, to be actively growing, and to continue to contribute to a malleable culture. Coaches may provide the glue for these new adventures.

I think one of the best things a coach can do is help to offset the overwhelm that comes with multiple learning curves. Any new pursuit is going to place a big demand on the brain. The brain will grow into the new concepts and structures of the next career, if it is given the right support. I don’t have a coach, but if I did, I think I would like one who knows a lot more than I do about a lot of things. That makes coaching doubly helpful: Boomers can find coaches to get them up to speed, and then become coaches too, offering the benefit of the years while deftly applying their new tech skills. Sounds like a fine interface to me.

Suzanna

Read more about avoiding overwhelm in this article from Jenn Givler.