The Coach’s Playlist: A Partnership Approach to Life

March 16, 2022

The Coach’s Playlist is a two-minute read packed with information based on an essential part of coaching.

This week’s topic: A Partnership Approach to Life

The Idea

‍If we apply the Partnership Principles to our everyday conversations and actions, we position ourselves to cultivate deeper connections, learn new things in every conversation, and have a positive impact in the lives of those we partner with.

Quotation

‍“Partnership means to be connected to one another in a way that the power between us is roughly equal.” – Peter Block

Book

‍The Definitive Guide to Instructional Coaching: Seven Factors for Success by Jim Knight

Resource

‍Video playlist of Jim Knight discussing each Partnership Principle

The Partnership Principles

Equality: I don’t believe any person or group is more valuable than any other, and I recognize and honor the dignity of every individual.
Choice: I communicate in a way that acknowledges the professional discretion of others by positioning them as decision makers.
Voice: I want to hear what others have to say, and I communicate that clearly.
Dialogue: I believe conversations should consist of a back-and-forth exchange, with all parties hearing and responding to one another’s opinions.
Reflection: I engage in conversations that look back, look at, and look ahead.
Praxis: I structure learning so that it is grounded in real life.
Reciprocity: I enter each conversation open and expecting to learn.

The Partnership Questions

Equality: Do I interrupt or judge others?
Choice: Can I let go of control?
Voice: Do others know that their opinions matter?
Dialogue: Do I see others’ strengths and want what’s best for them? Am I open to being shaped by their ideas?
Reflection: Do I avoid the advice trap?
Praxis: Does our coaching allow sufficient time for necessary adaptations?
Reciprocity: Am I a learner or a judger?