About
Born in London, one of seven boys. I have an optimistic view of life and human beings, and encourage people to be themselves, hence the attraction to positive psychology, with its focus on human potential and developing the myriad strengths and resources we already possess.
My first experience of coaching was as a client, after experiencing career burnout. I didn't know where to go or what to do, but being able to talk with someone who listened, free from bias and unsolicited advice, helped me shift the ruminating swirl of thoughts and feelings out of my head and into the world, enabling me to identify possibilities, assess the options and decide how best to move forwards.
As a result, I left a 15 year career to return to full-time education, where I studied and re-skilled to become a coaching psychologist and researcher.
My coaching style is predominantly "person-centred" and non-directive, and is based on the principle that human beings realise their potential when given the conditions to grow. Within a coaching relationship, my role is to create the conditions for awareness and clarity to arise, free from judgement or bias. I provide the soil, water and sun, for clients to grow.
I believe we learn about ourselves by learning about others. A favourite expression that resonates with my core values: Celebrate your uniqueness, and value the differences of others.
Character Strengths* are a cornerstone of Positive Psychology, and a highly effective wellbeing / personal development intervention I often integrate into coaching sessions with clients.
My top 5 Character Strengths:
1. Humour
Liking to laugh and tease; bringing smiles to other people; seeing the light side; making (not necessarily telling) jokes.
2: Humility
Letting one's accomplishments speak for themselves; not regarding oneself as more special than one is.
3: Social intelligence
Being aware of the motives/feelings of others and oneself; knowing what to do to fit into different social situations; knowing what makes other people tick.
4: Honesty
Speaking the truth but more broadly presenting oneself in a genuine way and acting in a sincere way; being without pretense; taking responsibility for one's feelings and actions.
5: Kindness
Doing favours and good deeds for others; helping them; taking care of them.
*Would you like to know your Character Strengths? Complete the free survey at the VIA (Values in Action) research institute. The survey is the result of one of the largest psychology research projects ever undertaken, and has high statistical robustness and reliability.
If you have questions, or would like more information about coaching, positive psychology, or anything else, please do contact me. I'm here to help and will provide all the information you require to make an informed decision about whether I'm the right coach for you. I aim to respond same day.
Warmly,
Paul