Since successfully completing the Climate Change Coaching Mastery course in July, I’ve been reflecting on the second half of the programme which focused deeply on Climate Change’s effects on people’s health and behaviours. This experience guided me to listen more deeply to my clients’ feelings within this context, and it helped me recognize how global changes impact my own health, ultimately improving the quality of my coaching.
I realise that climate change is affecting many people globally in a very real and devastating way. Around me, geographically speaking at least, I am not in physical danger yet. This is a privileged position to be in and I must acknowledge this in order for these articles to make sense. I know how I feel about what is happening to the planet so the course helped me to tackle this from my perspective.
Coaching wise, for and with you, I can propose questions but the answers to how you feel about this and what to do about it will come from you.
Module 4: Transforming Scarcity into Abundance
In this module, we explored how to transform negative mindsets into meaningful, positive thinking. We often encounter expressions of scarcity—such as time, resources, or even the tendency to blame others—which can lead to deflation, denial, or deflection. This form of scarcity is not about actual shortages, like water, food, or peace due to climate change, but rather a scarcity of imagination and courage which then leads to inaction.
Key Takeaway: we realised that our goal here is to challenge the use of perceived scarcity as an excuse for climate inaction. By acknowledging the speaker’s perspective and seeking evidence, we can explore the values behind these positions and begin to shift the focus from scarcity to abundance.
A particularly useful tool introduced was the “Are you sure?” matrix. This simple yet effective tool challenges scarcity-based statements while remaining neutral and empathetic. Additionally, tools using metaphors, allegories, and nature connections help to shift focus away from the default position of the: not satisfactory thing / someone / system etc. For example, the “Archetypes of Mindsets” wheel was invaluable in identifying 6 dominant self-characteristics, such as The Historian, The Innovator or The Earth Mother, which in turn fostered new, constructive dialogues between these facets of the self. What knowledge would the Historian share with the Innovator to move forward?
Module 5: Embracing Eco-Anxiety and Grief
This module focused on embracing grief and anxiety emotions and learning to channel their energy positively. Rather than ignoring or suppressing these feelings, we were encouraged to unpack and identify their roots without judgement, naming them one by one to create a tapestry of thoughts. This approach nurtures emotions positively, helping us remain calm amidst chaos and be at ease with what is happening.
We were invited to visit our “Valley of Climate Emotions”, a mental space to communicate with our feelings as allies and messengers. It is a place to sit with emotions directly, welcoming them as sources of insight and advice about what may come ahead. By engaging with our emotions in this way, we can gain clarity and use these feelings to navigate the challenges of climate change with greater resilience and understanding.
Techniques like “Somatic Nature Connections” can lead to small, meaningful steps at individual and community levels. The shift from “doing” to “being” is crucial; positive emotions can then be linked to actions, drawing from past successes and applying them to the present. The “Echo Anxiety” mapping tool was particularly helpful in checking where our state of mind was to identify potential areas of concern before they escalate.
Key Takeaway: Climate change is a global event, and grieving over it is a potent feeling. While it can lead to deep despondency, energetic optimism can actually ensue from this grief. The reality of our situation calls for coaching that helps us “be” with these emotions rather than pushing for immediate, goal-oriented targets.
Module 6: Building Wellbeing and Resilience
This module emphasised the need to manage our sense of Wellbeing and Resilience when contributing to broader systemic change. As we navigate the challenges of climate change, a key focus is on avoiding burning out or reverting to old working patterns that are part of the very systems we seek to transform. How do we stay balanced, maintain our sense of humour, and remain open to different perspectives, all while modelling a “New Paradigm”?
Key Takeaway: Regularly checking in with ourselves is essential. We can assess our energy levels using a simple scale, whether it’s a 1 to 10 health scale or another method that resonates with us. Acknowledging the situation without judgement, breaking it down into manageable parts, and using tools like the “Resonance River” to map our energy flows ensures we remain aligned with our core values.
Focusing on what truly matters in our lives is equally important. Are we spending our time wisely? Are we prioritising self-care, not just for our own well-being but as a foundation for the systemic changes we wish to see? If we find ourselves stuck, stepping outside, connecting with nature, or revisiting our “Garden of Joy”—a mental space for nurturing happiness—can help us regain balance and perspective. Reflecting on behaviours we’d like to change within ourselves before looking outward can lead to more effective growth and a deeper alignment with aspirations.
In Summary: These three modules provided practical strategies for managing the stresses of climate change while staying aligned with values and priorities. They emphasised the importance of self-care, mindful reflection, and small, meaningful actions as essential for both personal resilience and the broader systemic shifts necessary for climate and social change.
Completing the Climate Change Coaching course has equipped me with new approaches to adapt my coaching style and daily self-management. It has established a solid foundation for pursuing my personal and business climate change solutions, demonstrating that well-managed self-change can lead to impactful actions in the face of the climate and social challenges we all encounter.
Thanks to all at the Climate Change Coaching team who have made this course what it is. I recommend it.
Would you like to learn more and explore how you feel about climate, sustainability, and social justice? Choose change, contact us, and let’s start a conversation that matters.
Let’s connect for this journey together