Be a Hummingbird: The boss to coach journey
In an extraordinary land where the sun kisses the mountain tops and the warming mountain air smells of fresh pine trees and sage lives a little hummingbird named Hippy. Hippy was always curious and loved to explore nature, flying around and discovering new flowers and tasty nectars. Hippy was known for being a bit bossy, often telling the other hummingbirds what to do and where to go.
While playing with his friends one day, Hippy noticed a sad hummingbird named Gigi. Gigi felt lost and alone, and Hippy could see the pain in her eyes. Hippy approached Gigi and asked her questions to understand her better. He soon discovered that Gigi had lost her way while exploring and could not find her way back home. Hippy listened intently to Gigi's story and offered to help her return to her nest.
As they flew together, Hippy noticed that Gigi was skilled at finding certain types of flowers that he had never seen before. She was full of talents and strengths. He asked her how she knew so much about flowers, and she explained that they had always fascinated her. Hippy saw the potential in Gigi and encouraged her to keep exploring and learning more about flowers.
Over time, Hippy realized that by asking good questions and listening fully, he could help other hummingbirds discover their unique talents and gifts. He focused on being present in each moment and allowed others to be the expert of their own life while being accountable and supportive when needed.
Hippy became a wise and respected coach in the hummingbird community, helping others find their way and discover their true potential. He had successfully transitioned from a bossy hummingbird to a compassionate and encouraging coach, and the world was better because of it.
Just like Hippy, we can also learn to transition from being a bossy manager to a leadership coach. It requires we go against the flow and remember to ask good questions and listen fully, see the potential in others, focus on the present and future, and be accountability partners when needed. Doing so can help reduce turnover, eliminate burnout, and help work become a kinder and more supportive place for all to find and utilize their talents and strengths. Learn more about the boss to coach journey.