The interview question that stumped...and then inspired me.
Think of something you do pretty well. Maybe even really well.
Now describe your process for doing it.
It's a little tricky, right?
Even if you aren't sure how to describe what you do, I can promise you there is a process for it. Right now, the process may be unconscious.
But you are doing something special.
A friend was recently describing her husband's gift for putting people at ease while holding them to exacting standards during real estate closings. He didn't think he was doing anything unique or special.
Last week someone explained to me how people have always seemed to tell him things - secrets, opinions, grievances, and big decisions - in confidence. But, he wasn't sure why...
A few weeks ago someone asked me to describe my writing process.
Initially, I didn't have a great answer but over the next few days I realized there were things I repeatedly, but unconsciously, did to organize my ideas and eventually get them on the page.
"What's your process for that?" is a surprisingly helpful question because it assumes something useful and orderly occurs.
And if you repeatedly do something...that's a fair assumption.
By accepting that possibility and ultimately identifying your process you bring a whole bunch of activity above the line of consciousness.
With awareness about how you do it you can:
apply the core skills to other situations (for instance, other situations when it would be useful to put someone at ease)
describe your process in an interview (for instance, how you build rapport with a new team)
teach your approach to someone else (for instance, how to communicate high expectations in a way that feels good to everyone)
build the kind of grounded confidence that comes from knowing that your skills & experiences make you capable of tackling the ups and downs of life.
Reflecting on your process for things you "just do" is powerful.
Give it a try and let me know what you discover!
Much love,
Marijke
P.S. If you, are craving grounded confidence in 2022...coaching can be a powerful tool. Years back when I felt professionally discouraged and totally exhausted, a coach helped me get my mojo back. I may not be the right coach for you, but I'd love to talk through the process and help you sort out what kind of help would suit you best. Shoot me an email or schedule a free, explore coaching session so we can talk more!