Q: I'm in my mid-20s and teach third grade. I also work with this age group in my church. We are considered a mega-church and we have mega-jealousy, envy and strife, even in the nursery and children's church. I do not feel I have anyone to share my dreams because everyone is out for themselves. I desire to become a Youth Pastor. I would be in seminary school now but I'm working on a Master's degree. Coach Avis, what can I do? What is the next step for me?

A: Prayer. Pray that you do not become as those you described and pray for them. Pray a prayer using the Fruit of the Spirit found in Galatians 5:22-23 as a foundation for them and yourself. Then, seek a mentor/coach. Take Leadership & Development classes offered by your church. It's my guess these are offered since you are in a large church. This should give you some visibility by the right person(s). Make sure you are living holy and serving God. Do not fall to the tricks of the devil.

The Internet has resources available to you for independent study of Religion and Theology classes that are free and can be taken as your schedule permits.

Volunteer outside of your church with another nonprofit who provide services to children and youth. You can build your resume by doing so.

You may consider writing to the Pastor's wife about your desires. Pray about this. She may take you under her wings. Do not be upset if she doesn't but she should at least respond to you. Pastor's wives have full schedules. She will probably place you under someone she trusts to mentor you if she's unable to do so.

Make sure you know the plans God has for you. Know they will not be blocked by anyone but you. Stay in the will of God for your life. No weapon formed against you will prosper and every tongue speaking out against you will be condemned. In His will, you will have good success.

Q: I'm a career woman, wife and mother of one son. We want another child but I honestly am unable to handle the responsibilities I have as a mother of one. Coach Avis, how do I find a balance?

A: The answer is simple but the journey isn't usually easy. We can make it easy by simply deciding to prioritize our lives but as women, we act as if we were born with guilt. All works of the enemy, I tell you. Put things in order of priority and toss everything else. Do not be ashamed to ask for help. We have God, family and friends in our lives for a reason. Sit with your husband and make sure there is a close degree of equity between responsibilities. Is he carrying his fair share? Prioritize together. Earnestly seek God and ask Him to order your steps. He will. Do what He says. I also recommend these articles, "When to Say "No" and "10 Tips to Balance Work and Family."

 

Q: How can I decide whether coaching is right for me or my organization?

A: Simple. Contact Us to set up a free sample session. That is, hands down, the best way to decide whether coaching is the best choice for you.

Q: How is the coaching process monitored & evaluated for effectiveness?

A: The coaching process is documented by both the coach and client in their respective coaching files. From the initial session, specific desired outcomes are identified, and structures with accountability are put in place to ensure that action steps are completed. As the coaching progresses, at regular intervals the coach will guide the client through an assessment process to gauge the progress achieved and to make adjustments to the plan. As the coaching process nears completion, the coach and client will evaluate the results to date against the original criteria set forth. Once the original goals are fully achieved, the client may elect to continue with the coach by setting up a new set of desired outcomes, or else bring the coaching relationship to completion. In team coaching, we encourage the client to meet with key players in the organization to provide feedback on the process. We also support the client in selecting a personal Sounding Board to provide feedback and monitor accountability.

Providential Coaching, a division of AWard Company, LLC  abides by the rigorous Code of Ethics set forth by the International Coach Federation in all its work with clients. In accordance with that code, it is important to note that the ultimate responsibility for success in a client's life lies with the client, not the coach. Therefore, we do not guarantee specific outcomes tied to the coaching. Rather, we challenge the client to take full responsibility for his or her own life.