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The Rev. Sharon L. Vandegrift
Associate Certified Coach, International Coach Federation
Certified Life Coach, Institute for Life Coach Training
Endorsed Life Coach, United Methodist Church
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From Where You Are...To Where You Want to Be
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| Quotes
About Change |
| "They must often change, who would be constant in happiness or wisdom." ~Confucius
"When you are through changing, you are through."
~Bruce Barton
"It is not necessary to change. Survival is not mandatory."
~W. Edwards Deming
"Continuity gives us roots; change gives us branches, letting us stretch and grow and reach new heights." ~Pauline R. Kezer
"Change is inevitable - except from a vending machine."
~Robert C. Gallagher |
| Prayer of the Month |
"We come as those in between, O God. The holidays are behind us, and a new year is stretched empty before us. As we slowly turn to embrace what is new, we pray for the continued gift of your presence. Bring light where our hearts are darkened, that we may have strength for all that comes this year:
to weather its storms;
to meet its challenges,
to delight in its blessings. Grow us in your presence that we may touch this year with something of your holy, healing love." from 'Fresh Breezes' by John R. Pritchard, Jr.
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| Query for the Coach |
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In each monthly newsletter I will address a personal question and offer coaching insight. Are you feeling blocked and unable to move forward? Is the clutter in your life causing you to feel overwhelmed? Are you repeating the same mistakes over and over again? Whatever your situation, you are not alone! Your identity will remain confidential. Click the 'Query for the Coach' link below to send your query. |
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We have entered into a new year and a new decade. A time of calendar transition inspires us to focus on making changes in our lives. So, in this month's newsletter I explore ideas to consider when pondering change. Enjoy! -Sharon |
| Just Plugging Along |
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Sometimes in life we can accomplish a great deal by just plugging along. Behaviors change when we practice them, and plugging along is a form of practicing new ways of living and being that will eventually become routine. If our goal is long-term, sustainable change, just plugging along can be an extremely effective way to get where we want to be. Plugging along means taking daily, small, but steady steps on the journey toward transforming ourselves and our lives. We often don't begin the important change that needs to happen in our lives because we are waiting to feel ready to make a major commitment to doing significant things in a new way. But it doesn't take enormous bursts of energy or huge shifts in lifestyle to begin the journey toward change.
What does just plugging along look like?
If you are determined to get rid of the clutter in your office and to become a more organized person, plug along by tossing at least five items in the recycle bin each morning.
If your goal is to shift to a healthier diet, plug along by adding one serving of vegetables to your lunch each day.
If you want to be in more regular contact with clients and/or friends and be considered a great correspondent, plug along by writing one email or letter at the same time each and every day.
Often, the work toward change that we desire in our lives gets put off because we don't believe that small steps have any impact. But when just plugging along, we have daily accomplishments to celebrate. And, we are relieved of the stress and guilt that often come with the belief that we don't have the time or energy to commit to a huge shift right now. Sustainable change is a long term process! So...keep plugging along!
What goal might you move toward this month through the practice of just plugging along? |
| Query for the Coach |
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Dear Sharon,
Lately I have been very unhappy at work and thinking it might be time for a new career. How do you know when is it time for a career change?
When you are unhappy at work, it is definitely time to consider change. But that doesn't necessarily mean 'career change'. When pondering change it is worth looking at your life from a big picture perspective including personal life, job setting, as well as career choice.
Making some changes in your personal life may help you experience your professional life in a more positive light. For example, getting more sleep, exercising, or investing time in a hobby, are all ways to improve your personal life that may have a significant effect on job satisfaction.
If you really like the basic nature of your profession, but the work environment is unhealthy or unreasonably stressful, continuing in the same career at another job site or with another company may be in order. Begin exploring what the options are with other companies and in other settings. Start working on your resume and networking with folks in your field. If it is job change that is in order, you will gain energy in exploring the options and positioning yourself to make the shift.
But, if you are no longer finding any fulfillment in the work you are doing, you may be ready for a complete career make-over. If career change is in order, you will find yourself enlivened by pondering the myriad of possibilities available. While exploring options you will learn about career specific training that might be necessary. If you are ready for career change, informal and formal learning to prepare you for the transition will be a joyous adventure.
No matter which aspect of your life needs a renovation, take the time to ponder the root reasons for your unhappiness, and explore your options. Opportunity and possibilities abound! | |
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Bridge-the-Gap Life Coaching Services, LLC, is an organization committed to partnering with you to bridge the gap between your life today and your hopes for tomorrow. |
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Sincerely,
Sharon L. Vandegrift
Bridge-the-Gap Life Coaching Services, LLC
Associate Certified Coach, International Coach Federation
Certified Life Coach, Institute for Life Coach Training
Ordained Elder and Endorsed Life Coach, United Methodist Church | |
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