The Art of Transformation in Coaching
As an Integral Coach and Writer, I’ve come to understand that transformation happens in the liminal space – that mysterious realm between light and dark where both possibility and uncertainty dwell. Like visual artists exploring the interplay between light and shadow, inspiring the onlooker to dive in and explore – coaches guide clients through their journey of personal development and self-discovery.
“Yohaku no bi,” or the beauty of blank space, is the Japanese art (a concept borrowed from Chinese landscape ink wash paintings) of intentionally leaving extra white spaces for us to contemplate. In the view of Zen artists, there is a powerful space between things – representing not an absence but rather a field of infinite possibility, where emptiness serves as a fertile ground for potential, much like the pause between breaths holds all possibilities of what comes next.
While artists like Wayne Garrett capture the comforting warmth of light emerging from darkness, coaches create safe spaces for authentic expression. The contrasts remind us to embrace our light and shadow, allowing us to see ourselves wholly.
Holding Space: The Practice of Deep Presence
During a recent team meeting check-in, when sharing about an upcoming family milestone celebration, we gently held space as our colleague shared her experience of navigating the important preparations without the presence of her beloved sister (of blessed memory). In these moments together, we create a sacred container where each person can truth-tell and express their most vulnerable thoughts without fear or judgment.
When we gather this way, sitting in attunement with one another, we practice what can be described as a deep form of communication – being present at both the thought, body and emotional levels. The team’s gentle presence allowed the weight of this absence to be acknowledged, creating a safe space where grief could be honored.
Creating Containers for Growth
Our work at New Ventures West teaches students how to hold space in this threshold between what is and what could be. They have the opportunity to work deeply on their coaching relationships, as well as their personal growth. It is our calling, as coaches, to help clients navigate their own shadows while illuminating paths forward. We don’t rush to “fix” the darkness or force artificial light – instead, we create a container where all aspects of a person’s experience can exist without judgment. This is what we’re up to.
In a coaching relationship, this can look like this:
- Creating psychological safety for clients to explore their full range of experiences
- Resisting the urge to immediately “solve” dark moments
- Recognizing that growth often happens in uncertain spaces
- Using powerful questions to help clients find their own light
In San Francisco, where our head office resides and fog and sunshine dance in constant interplay, we understand that neither light nor dark exists in isolation. Personal growth isn’t about eliminating darkness but learning to navigate both with grace and wisdom. The incredible power of coaching lies not in forcing clients toward the light but in helping them find comfort and wisdom in the space between. It’s here, in this liminal realm, that true transformation becomes possible.
Written by Karen Kininsberg, Integral Coach, Writer & New Ventures West’s Communications Manager.