The WellBe training program focuses on embedding a coaching approach in the work of adult educators.
The first two days of training were dedicated to exploring coaching principles and skills.
During the second weekend of the program, the goals of our adult educators from the beginning of the training were reviewed in the spirit of partnering and presence.
Some of them included being more adaptive and authentic during training, persistent in using active listening, helping students set their goals, and empowering people to seek their own solutions.
On Saturday, participants learned about active and focused listening, which involves listening for facts, emotions, and free associations. Lachezar Afrikanov, Ph.D. employed the engaging style he uses to work with university students in Bulgaria and skillfully emphasized the importance of being present beyond what is said and expressed. Some of the comments after the session were that time flew by, the practical sessions are connecting people, and that there are truly useful techniques that could be used and practiced in private life with family also, not just in a professional environment.
On Sunday, the focus was on the art of questioning, which included discussions about pre-templated questions that contained the answer, the importance of trainers’ improvisation, and following intuition in the facilitation of group learning instead of sticking to the prepared agenda. Svetoslava Stoyanova shared many tips from her practice as a coach and tapped into the important theme of ethics when applying coaching.
The trainers also discussed how to encourage people to take steps after the training.
One strong message shared during this day was that powerful questions are the ones that are difficult to answer, and if participants stay in silence, it is a good sign for the exploration process happening.
The valuable part of the session was a coaching demonstration by trainers, where the trainer in the role of coachee shared a real situation connected to WellBe(ing). Participants were able to see the other trainer in the role of a coach and how coaching skills such as presence, active listening, and the art of questioning are being utilized live.
After this demonstration, participants had an opportunity to practice asking coaching questions in breakout rooms. Some of the insights gained were the importance of echoing what was said, finding resources already in use, and exploring the universe of decisions. There were also questions regarding fields of coaching and clear differences from psychotherapy.
The trainers concluded the program by announcing mentoring sessions and motivating the participants to apply their newfound knowledge. The trainers eagerly anticipate witnessing the WellBe participants’ creativity as they put their training to use in their respective environments in the following months.