“The Jedi Code itself may seem simple upon reading it, but the true challenge is living it. Passion can rise to the surface. Emotions can cloud our thoughts. Chaos can spiral us into the unfathomable darkness. We all find ourselves staring into the abyss at times. Only those who find a way to rise above the darkness are deemed worthy to become Jedi.”―Luke Skywalker
I was recently invited to a new podcast hosted by coach and author Gudjon Bergmann who was intrigued by my assertion that masterful coaching requires an adherence to the Jedi Master Code. And before you picture me dressed up as Obiwanobi at a Star Wars Comic Con, I saw only the first 3 instalment of the trilogy. However, what inspired me was the basic premise of these films taken from a myriad of sources including, according to the creator, George Lucas, Joseph Campbell’s book, The Hero with a Thousand Faces.
From there he created the Jedi Code – rules governing the actions and principles of the Jedi Order which eventually became the mantra:
Emotion, yet peace.
Ignorance, yet knowledge.
Passion, yet serenity.
Chaos, yet harmony.
Death, yet the Force.
Ok so ride along with me in Part 1 How to be a Jedi Coach of Human Potential!
Emotion, yet peace.
Like the Jedi master, coaches are not immune to feeling emotions. We don’t bury them or dwell on them. We see them as valuable insight to the beliefs of our clients. This precept is a reminder that our emotions when coaching is to be witnessed and released so we can bring peace to our client’s situation. It is our duty (and the Jedi’s) to explore their feelings objectively and with detached compassion. Emotions are not to be overcome or denied but rather explored with the intention of seeing what perspective might be at the heart of such feelings.
By doing this we demonstrate ICF Coaching Competency 2. Embodies a Coaching Mindset
Marker 6 -Develops and maintains the ability to regulate one’s emotions and Marker 7-Mentally and emotionally prepares for sessions.
