Recently The Toad asked me to do something that placed me way outside my comfort zone. I took a big deep breath and asked him to sit down with me for a “grown up conversation.” The Toad understands when I say this I am asking that he bring his most mature, most thoughtful brain to the table and that in turn I will treat him as far beyond his years in giving him honest and candid information. I explained why what he was asking me to do was very difficult and personally felt very risky and frightening to me. He was very thoughtful and empathetic but he also reminded me of the many times I had encouraged him to take baby steps from where he felt safe/secure and the many times he had done that and realised the reward of the great feeling of pride and accomplishment afterwards. I agreed to give it a try and I worked out with him a couple of strategies to get me over any bumps and had an escape plan if needed. We were both clear I would do my very best but that if I gave the signal we would be leaving the situation and there would be no negotiation and no questions asked.

I managed through the situation (with a little support) and was pleased with myself and my performance. I was most pleased however that The Toad has internalised enough of my coaching to help himself and others and that together we can manage anything.