Dear Minnesota Community,
August in Minnesota has its own rhythm. The air hangs heavily from the blistering heat and strong rains from July. Yet, the scent of backyard BBQs and sounds of youth softball / baseball tournaments drifts across neighborhoods for many, and the pull of “just one more weekend at the cabin” is strong for others. Oh, and the Minnesota State Fair is near with its Birthday Cake Cookie Dough On-A-Stick, Savory Deep-Fried Afro Bean Pops and the ever popular butter sculpture contest, which is sure to whet our appetites and test our patience for long lines and strangers bumping into us without any apology.
Yes, it’s a wonderful season… but it can also be a tricky one.
For many external coaches and some internal ones, August can feel like a lull. Clients are on vacation, schedules are unpredictable, and we may find our own focus wandering. The slower pace can bring a temptation to coast with our business until the fall leaves start to drop, the kids return to school and the opening kickoff for the Vikings or the Packers signal a new season. But as I’ve learned in coaching and in life, these “off-seasons” can be some of the most fertile time for growth if we choose to lean in rather than drift.
Here are a few thoughts as we navigate this hot, hazy month:
· Embrace the Pause – Slower schedules create space for reflection. This is a perfect time to check in with your own vision and goals for the year. Whether you work internally or have your own business, are you where you hoped to be in August? What adjustments will set you up for a strong finish?
· Plant the Seeds Now – Just like a farmer prepares fields before harvest, you can use August to reach out to prospective clients, strengthen relationships, or create resources you’ll leverage in the fall. What you nurture now will bear fruit later.
· Stay Present, Stay Curious – Whether you’re out exploring the State or the Art Fair, sitting in the bleachers at a softball game or chilling at a community night out, notice the conversations, the energy, the way people connect. These moments can spark insights that enrich your coaching practice.
You can also join one of the upcoming August events sponsored through ICF Minnesota. We’ve got a great mix of in-person and virtual opportunities to connect, learn, and grow. I’d love to see you at one (or more!) of them:
· August 13 – DEIJB Book Club (In-Person) Join us for rich conversation as we explore diversity, equity, inclusion, justice, and belonging through the lens of thought-provoking books. This month’s gathering will challenge perspectives and expand your thinking. Details here
· August 15 – DEIJB Monthly Committee Get-Together (Virtual) An open, welcoming space to explore how coaching can make a meaningful impact in all communities. No registration needed—just reach out to me or any committee member for the Zoom link.
· August 18 – Coaching by an MCC Demo (Virtual) Experience the mastery of coaching from a Master Certified Coach, with an opportunity to learn, reflect, and bring fresh tools back to your own practice. Register here
Let’s enjoy this August and make it one to remember.
With appreciation,
Victor Thompson
President, ICF Minnesota
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