In the workplace or in school, professionals often seek ways to enhance their productivity and decision-making skills. This is where Executive Functioning Coaching comes into play, a specialized form of coaching that focuses on development of skills and strategies essential for high-level performance. In recent years, there have been abrupt interruptions in essential skill building years for students due to the pandemic, and, unfortunately, in this community as well as many others, school violence. Educators and parents are reporting clear deficits in social skills, time management, “adulting” skills, and school/life balance as a result of these interruptions.
What is Executive Functioning Coaching?
Executive functioning coaching is a targeted approach that focuses on strengthening a set of mental skills critical for effective organization, planning, and execution of tasks. These cognitive processes, known collectively as executive functions, include skills like time management, prioritization, emotional regulation, task initiation, and sustained attention. Unlike traditional coaching that might focus more broadly on career development or leadership skills, executive functioning coaching is specifically tailored to enhance cognitive abilities that impact workplace performance and personal productivity.
How Does Executive Functioning Coaching Work?
Executive functioning coaching typically involves the following key components:
Coaching: Coaching often begins with a comprehensive evaluation of an individual’s executive skills. This can include interviews, and self-assessment tools.
Goal Setting: Based on the initial coaching session, specific goals are set. These goals are tailored to address the individual’s unique challenges and aspirations.
Skill Development: The coach introduces strategies and tools to improve executive functions. This could involve exercises to enhance memory, techniques for better time management, or methods to improve emotional control.
Application: The individual applies these strategies in real-world scenarios, particularly in their professional environment. The coach provides support and adjustments as needed.
Feedback and Adjustment: Regular feedback sessions help track progress and make necessary adjustments to the coaching plan.
The process is highly individualized, recognizing that each person’s executive functioning strengths and weaknesses are unique.
Executive Function Coaching for ADHD
One theory regarding the development of what we now label as “ADHD” in humans suggests that those with this diagnosis would have been the most effective hunters during the early years of our species. With the ability to react quickly to sensory stimuli, this “illness” was adaptive and necessary. During and after the development of agriculture, people who function best when active were then forced to sit in rows of desks, all day every day, impairing their ability to focus and learn.
he diagnosis of ADHD indicates that the Executive Functioning, also referred to as the “CEO or Driver” part of the brain is underactive. Interventions and strategies such as minimizing distractions, using standing desks or other means of physical movement during focused work time, taking regular breaks, and practicing healthy self care are incorporated into management of ADHD. As someone who has had to manage ADHD without the use of stimulant medication, Dennis has firsthand knowledge of the unique struggles, needs, and strengths associated with this diagnosis.
How Do I Know I Need Executive Functioning Coaching?
Determining whether you need executive functioning coaching involves self-reflection and possibly feedback from others. Consider seeking executive functioning coaching if you:
Struggle with Organization: You find it challenging to keep track of tasks, manage your time effectively, or prioritize work.
Procrastinate Frequently: Difficulty in initiating tasks or a tendency to delay important tasks can be a way to temporarily avoid tasks that feel overwhelming or tedious. Unfortunately, as the work or tasks accumulate, anxiety increases.
Feel Overwhelmed by Multitasking: If juggling multiple responsibilities feels overwhelming, it might indicate a need for improved executive skills.
Experience Emotional Regulation Issues: Difficulty in managing stress, frustration, or controlling impulses can impact decision-making and leadership.
Receive Feedback on Decision-Making: If you’ve been advised to improve your decision-making or strategic thinking, executive functioning coaching can help.
Aspire for Higher Productivity: Even without significant struggles, a desire to enhance your productivity and efficiency can be a good reason to seek coaching.
Start Coaching at Doolan Wellness Today
Are you feeling overwhelmed by daily tasks and struggling to keep up with your goals? Do you find time management and organization to be constant battles? It’s time to turn the tide in your favor with Executive Functioning Coaching.
At Doolan Wellness, our specialized coaching program is designed to empower individuals who are seeking to enhance their cognitive skills for better performance both in their personal and professional lives. Start today at Doolan Coaching