As we coach people, we see over and over how easy it is for them to focus on what they DON’T have, what they need, what’s missing. It’s so easy for them to say, “I could do this if I only had _____.” It’s natural in our problem-solving to go there, but it comes out of a scarcity mindset. Resourcing starts with what God has already provided.
Yet you’ll find a significant—and fruitful—paradigm shift occurs when you can help them focus on what they DO have. A question I like to ask to counter or pre-empt that scarcity mindset is: “What assets do you already have?” When we get people thinking about what they do have at their disposal (e.g. relationships, resources, spaces, talents, etc.) they become more energized toward meeting their goal.
Asset-mapping
Sometimes I assign my clients an asset-mapping exercise. Using post-it notes, they can brainstorm resources they have at their disposal. To engage in the asset mapping exercise, just follow the steps below:
1. Ask them to write one asset on each post it note. Prompt them with the following categories:
- People
- Energy
- Time
- Physical space or objects
- Expertise (people they can ask)
- Spiritual gifts
- Support and prayer
- Resources/curriculum
- Money
2. Now try connecting the dots by grouping certain assets together.
3. Brainstorm possible action steps based on the assets you have.
If God has called your client to do something, he’s already given them enough to get started. Instead of coming from a scarcity mentality, you can help them move to an abundance mentality.
Resources
Christian Coaching Essentials*– Our coaching basics book has a whole chapter dedicated to how to help clients with resourcing.
Photo by DS stories
Cover Photo by Ketut Subiyanto
*Amazon affiliate link