Meet Deb Johnson
1. What brought you to coaching?
After a 37-year career in the telecommunication industry as an executive I decided to leave to pursue another position. My game plan was to find another high-level position and continue down a similar path. Along the way, while serving on a non-profit board, a fellow board member who happened to be an Executive Coach encouraged me take a class, “The Power of Possibility” at Learning Journeys International School of Coaching. That was it, I found that what I love to do is work with people who are in search of answers which are inside of all of us if we take the time to really listen and are patient. I realized that while I love the business world, I loved working with individuals and teams to leverage their gifts and talents so they could see the value they bring to the world.
2. Tell us about your coaching practice. (Niche, ideal client, etc.)
My ideal client is someone who is navigating through a transition, personally or professionally. Navigating change can be challenging and be filled with fear of the unknown is trying. As people face the challenge the goal is to work with them, as they discover the gift in the challenge and see it as an opportunity. Being curious about what could be vs what can not be is key. I believe there is always more than one path available to explore.
3. What do you love about your coaching work?
I love working with people. Everyone has a story; it is always fascinating to hear and understand the journey that people have or are now on. I believe that we all go through situations in life and those situations create wisdom which is meant to help others on the journey. It creates understanding and empathy for what others are facing. The ability to come from a place of understand creates trust and a sense of connection that is real. Being able to partner with a client through their discovery of what can be and navigating the waters of change and transition is something that I find fulfilling and a way I can serve others.
4. Tell us about the coaching tools, books, podcasts, etc. that you follow that helps you to stay informed.
It is hard to pick because there are so many. My most recent course I have taken is “Positive Intelligence” The practice of mental fitness. I found it a fascinating tool that can be used in my coaching practice. The ability to strengthen our Positive Intelligence Quotient (PQ) helps to shift how we see, and process situations based on our identified saboteurs by shifting to the sage or positive perspective. It allows us to see the gift in everything even if it is not immediate.
Some other tools I find helpful in my coaching practice are the life map, the quadrant and a simple T chart. The tools provide a simple starting point on the journey of discovery for the client.
5. How has ICF-MN helped you as a coach?
I love being part of the ICF MN community and serving on the board. I am always learning something new through the programming they offer and from other coaches. It has provided a great opportunity to expand my coaching skills and practice. I am a strong believer in service to others, ICF MN has provided that through many areas which I am truly grateful.
6. How can folks connect with you?
My website: http://www.djconsultingandcoaching.com
Email: Deb@djconsultingandcoaching.com
Cell: 612 272-0145
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