Presence
How do we present ourselves in conversations that create presence?
And also, how do we respond to another person’s presence?
Would we be able to know this if we don’t know what presence is?
What is presence?
“the state or fact of existing, occurring, or being present. A person or thing that exists or is present in a place but is not seen.
plural noun: presences” as defined by an online dictionary
The origin of the word presence: https://www.etymonline.com/
presence (n.) mid-14c., “fact of being present, state of being in a certain place and not some other,” also “space before or around someone or something,” from Old French presence (12c., Modern French présence), from Latin praesentia “a being present,” from praesentem (see present (adj.)).
copresence (n.) “act or fact of being present with (another),” 1802,
What Presence means to me
Having elements of being fully conscious and present with a grounded and confident style. Rational, ethical and arising from the situation and moment. Facilitating trust – building to foster effective relationships so that we can work together.
In exploring what presence means to me, I have discovered that to be fully present with another person means that all my senses are attuned to theirs. To be silent so that I can listen better. Connection is the primary determinant of effective coaching. The quality of the relationship one is co-creating is at the heart of positive coaching outcomes.
Wherein does presence lie?
It is vital for coaches to develop an awareness of self as the instrument within the relationship they are wanting to co-create. Understanding their presence and how it is affecting the client. A great skill of the coach in leveraging their presence and use of self, the greater the clients trust in their working relationship.
Coaching with H.E.A.R.T. is to be fully present with my client.
What does coaching from the heart look like?
Hope Harmony Happiness Holistic
Empathic Encouraging Exploring Expanding Ethical Effortless
Acceptance Appreciation Affirmation Attunement Attentive
Respectful Relational Responsiveness Reflexive Rapport Rational
Trusting Tenderness Togetherness Truthful
The most valuable thing I have to offer is my sheer presence
Yalom (2015:158)
Being in harmony with another leads to emotional resonance between coach and client, fostering an environment which is conducive to enabling change to occur.