At the end of 2023, one of my projects was to reorganize the large stash of coaching books I have accumulated over the years and arrange them in my office, where I can see them every day.
Why, you ask? Simple. They were gathering dust.
Oh, and I haven’t returned to many of them since I read them (okay, skimmed them) the first time.
It was also my first step in reading more coaching books in 2024. There is now so much wisdom sitting on the credenza behind me that I am inspired to revisit the concepts that have taught and inspired me since I completed the RRU Graduate Certificate in Executive Coaching in 2008.
Let’s face it: this field is growing!
Keeping abreast of the latest best practices and research is significant for professional growth. If you have read my emails for a while, you’ll know I am a big fan of professional growth!!
If you are anything like me, you have discovered that finding the time to read books can be a real struggle. But here we are in January with another clean, shiny year of possibilities.
Why not make 2024 the year we shake up our habits and read more. Are you with me?
C’mon, it’ll be fun!
Here’s my plan. You are welcome to borrow anything that may work for you, too. Oh, and if you’ve got some other ideas, please do share.
I plan to start by prioritizing reading in my daily schedule. I want to set aside a dedicated time for reading. First thing in the morning works best for me. It is when I am least likely to be disturbed. I will reframe this as a non-negotiable part of my professional development, and I will track everything I read to use for ICF Resource Development CCE units when my MCC credential is up for renewal.
I think that if reading is a predictable part of my routine, I’ll return to a reading habit that will pay dividends over time.
I have quite a big stack of hardcover books to get me started, but I will put a tech strategy in place, too. I have plenty of coaching e-books on my Kindle. And I use Audible for audiobooks. For me, these are a flexible alternative to traditional printed books.
I plan to alternate these mediums one book at a time. One hardcover, one e-book, one audiobook. Repeat. I hope this will add some variety to the chore, keeping me engaged and interested. Days, when I can walk outdoors (or in the gym), commute, wait for appointments and do my daily reading via audiobook will be a treat.
Since my Kindle app is on my phone, my current e-book will always be with me, which I suspect will help me convert other types of unproductive time into learning opportunities.
I will also look around for a coaching book club or online community. I’ve always done better meeting goals when I connect with others on the same path. I love hearing diverse perspectives.
I might do a wee experiment and share what I’m reading in my LinkedIn group, the ICF Coach Credentialing Collective. This will be an excellent way to share insights, ask questions, and even find out about books that other coaches recommend. I’ve always found that the collective wisdom of my peers enriches my understanding of coaching concepts and their practical applications.
I also plan to pace myself by setting realistic reading goals. I tend to get excited about things and overwhelm myself with crazy deadlines. I know already that a book a month will feel daunting for me. Two chapters a week is much more doable. But I’m going to be flexible about it. Getting the routine in place is the priority. Volume is secondary.
Well, now it’s written down, and I’ve shared it.
My plan is to read more coaching books in 2024. Wish me luck!
Better still, why not join me? What do you plan to read this year?
Cathy Shaughnessy, MCC, is an active ICF Assessor and ICF Mentor Coach Specialist for ACC, PCC and MCC. A graduate of the Royal Roads University Graduate Certificate in Executive Coaching, Cathy has been coaching since 2008 and brings extensive experience as an executive coach, mentor coach, coach educator and assessor to her work with coaches.
Through Perspective In Action, Cathy provides mentor coaching and creates practical resources for coaches preparing for ICF credentials, credentialing exams, renewal and ongoing professional development. Her courses, exam preparation resources and learning tools help coaches deepen their understanding of the ICF Core Competencies, PCC Markers, Code of Ethics and Core Values, and apply that knowledge thoughtfully in their coaching.
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