Coaching Session #2

This session was great fun for me. I assumed the role of, "opposer" with my Coach Marc. Funny, because given the relative anonymity of a long-distance phone call, and an audience of one, I was able to play Devil's Advocate, and argue a very unpopular topic, (sexual rights of the Residents) along with the possible legal ramifications. In this situation, the role play was fun. As I mentioned in a previous post, because I sit on the Human Rights Committee, I have to assume the rule of opposer, and although I have been practicing this for years, it is still very uncomfortable for me.

The opportunity to share the Four-Player model simply presented itself to me. A co-worker was complaining about the way a morning meeting went, and with my permission, complained for a while. I explained the model, his role as a "Bystander", and talked about the role of "Opposer", which was something he reportedly experienced that morning. It was very apparent the way a change in the norm can be disconcerting at best, and in my co-worker's case, upsetting. After our conversation, he asked for a copy of the model, which I provided. I think having the illustration helped him to depersonalize the conflict he was a part of earlier that day.

Honestly, I am still working on applying the model with the PhD. We work in seperate buildings, and between missing work due to a sinus infection, and isolating myself at work because of my symptoms, I haven't yet had the opportunity. I might be setting sights too high here. So if I don't have the conversation with him tomorrow, I will venture to the Administration building, and have the conversation with someone whose job is in the business office.

First Coachee Session

I had a great hour getting to know Marc, sharing information about our work and education history. As it turns out, we work in similar settings, and have each completed the ABA coursework at U-Mass.

It was difficult for me to provide the answers to the questions, and I would find myself veering off, talking about whole other subjects. It was very nice to be able to talk with someone with whom I have so much in common, to be able to share a story and feel that I was understood! I must say, my coach has this rare quality.

The transformative learning experience for me was downhill skiing. Learning to ski(pizza pie, frnch fry) gave me the confidence to try other sports and challenges, such as mountain biking, triathlon and marathon. Admittedly, I'm not very good at any one sport, but I am open to new adventures- Which could lead to my current education experience.

I see this graduate program as my passport to new adventures. Once I have my BCBA, I plan on relocating to a new home, (where ever that may be) to a great new job (what ever that may be).

Thank you very much Marc, for letting me tell my story.

Jo Ann