The essence (and the sense) of Coaching and Growth.

Have you ever felt both puzzled and exhilarated at the same time? Unsure of your next step, yet completely alive in the moment?

As we were hiking up Psiloritis mountain (Crete's highest peak at 2,456 meters), surrounded by breathtaking views of the Cretan and Libyan seas and grasping the rare chance of complete disconnection from every day's distractions, worries and concerns, with no digital signal, just with the rocks, the sun and the wind, I began pondering about my life's journey, the places I have been, the places I wish to go…

The path was challenging and after taking a few short-cuts, we missed it and it was at that moment that tiredness, worry and frustration kicked in! After a few guesses 'I think we should go that way', 'this seems to be the right direction', my partner headed back downhill to find the right way, whispering 'no we are not risking this' and I was grateful he did!

It was in this moment of reflection and partnership that the essence of coaching came to mind…

Coaching, much like this hike, is about:

• Gaining clarity: Define where you want to go and chart your path.

• Pausing to reassess: Stop, think, and evaluate your options without judgment.

• Creating space: Foster a safe, disruption-free environment to focus on what matters.

• Partnering with support: Work alongside someone who encourages and believes in you.

• Appreciating the journey: Embrace the present, celebrate your progress, and cherish those who walk with you.

• Moving forward with acceptance and love: Honor where you’ve been, and step boldly into what’s next.

As I stood atop Psiloritis, I realized once again that growth isn’t always about reaching the summit—it’s about the clarity, connection, and courage we cultivate along the way.

What path are you ready to explore? Who will you invite to walk it with you?

A couple of months have passed since this experience, yet its message remains the same…Growth takes time…it unfolds gradually, through pauses, reassessments, and the courage to move forward..and time offers perspective…

As you reflect on your own journey, how has time helped you gain clarity?