A Coaching Model Created by Bakhtiar Khawaja
(Executive Coaching, PAKISTAN)
The UPLOAD coaching model depicts a circular journey, starting from discovering unrealized potential and passing through various stages, until desired results are achieved. The journey doesn’t end there. It goes on in an expanding cycle of achievement, growth and learning.
‘UPLOAD’ is essentially a learning model, represented by an open circle. Each journey on this circular path takes the traveler, the coaching client, to a higher orbit.
Let me first explain the term ‘UPLOAD’, and the background of the ‘open circle’ (which has special significance in Zen philosophy) before diving into the complete narrative of the model.
Most of the known sources of information, knowledge and wisdom have now been ‘UPLOADED’ on giant information portals – ready to serve seekers of learning, wherever and whenever. Hence the association of the term ‘UPLOAD’ with learning and wisdom, and with coaching.
It is said that in the hands of a Zen Master, the power of ‘Enso’ (circle of enlightenment) is released, helping those who meditate upon it, to reach a higher level of consciousness.
Introduction
The UPLOAD coaching model represents an intuitive circular journey starting with an individual who becomes aware of some unrealized potential or an unmet need – and decides to seek help from a coach for discovery and forward movement.
The coach enhances client’s awareness around his/her current situation and where he/she wants to be – leading to framing of objectives. Supported by the coach, the client generates commitment to take actions required to move forward. The coach also helps the client to exercise self accountability. Focused actions ultimately bring the desired results.
On a different plain, the client experiences new learning and insight at each step of the process. Upon completion of one cycle, the client’s journey shifts to a higher orbit of achievement and learning – in a never-ending search for truth
UPLOAD is an acronym which stands for:
U: Unrealized potential or unmet need
P: Perspectives: Current reality & future vision
L: Learning by exploration supported by the coach
O: Objectives framing: Goals and strategies
A: Action, supported by self accountability
D: Delivery of results accompanied by learning & insights
These six elements of the coaching model follow each other in a circular orbit and in a logical sequence. The model is presented graphically in the next slide. Precise explanations of the six elements of the model are given in later sections.
Unrealized Potential
The first element of the UPLOAD model is unrealized potential or unmet need on the part of a client. This is the reason the client approaches the coach for help in realizing her potential.
Perspectives
The next important step is for the client to share with the coach his/her perspectives in two areas.
The coach, through active listening and powerful questions, enhances clients’ awareness of both perspectives and helps clarify their thinking about where they are, where they want to be, and how they feel about getting there.