By Chris Wahl

Coaches often hear from their clients that they are anxious to be promoted. When coaches ask questions to help clients reflect on their reasons for wanting to move up, clients begin a reflective and important journey which seems to strengthen them.

What never seems to work is promotion for promotion's sake. Or promotion just because it is "time" for it ~ on whose timetable? And for what reasons? Clients sometimes discover that while the idea of promotion is attractive, the reality of it may not fit well into their lives. They may not actually be able to put in more hours. They may discover that the promotion is available but that what they are being promoted into is not a great match for them. Or, the promotion may entail a change of residence that their family is not yet ready for. When they can look deep inside of themselves and find a solid reason for pursuing and accepting a promotion - it's the stretch they've been dreaming of, or, it puts them into a position where they can influence and contribute in ways that create meaning for them, or, it puts them to work on issues that ignite their passion to serve - then, and only then, can they go forward authentically to pursue and accept a promotion. To move forward for any other reason begs the question, why do you want this promotion?

Reflection

How do you think about your own career progression? How important is promotion to you? What factors are part of your decision-making related to moving up? Are you influenced by the fact that someone out there thinks this is the next best thing for you? Are you able to trust your inner compass about what is right for you, now?