The Tao Of Coaching

Written by Stuart Haden on October 11, 2013

There is one book I always recommend in the coaching world and that’s The Tao Of Coaching by Max Landsberg. Why? Well without devaluing this classic text – it is short to read (2 hours), gets to the point and offers an excellent introduction to coaching. If you are well versed in coaching I encourage you to read it, furthermore, I encourage you to share it with others. That most likely is it’s greatest value – sharing the coaching message and ensuring our practice remains transparent.

So when I set out to create my online programme the – Authentic Coach (due for release in 2014) I knew I had to consult Max Landsberg’s wise words. Acting as an A – Z of coaching it explores – asking versus telling, feedback, structure, styles, coaching blocks, skill/will, motivation, teams and mentoring. Images and models are incorporated throughout. Factual on one hand the story also explores Alex’s journey as a coach. Mind you it took me until the 3rd reading to spot the unfolding love story!?

If you fancy going off on a bit of a tangent (and can be in London next week!) Max has just written a new book – The Call of the Mountains: sights and inspirations from a journey of a thousand miles across Scotland’s Munros. Having spent 7 years on and off climbing the 282 mountains in Scotland that are 3,000 feet or more in height, he fell in love with the landscape there. More than just a travel guide, The Call of the Mountains is “a lyrical testament to the power of the Scottish mountains to offer anyone of reasonable fitness either simple enjoyment or a deeper journey of transformation.” I’ll be attending his launch if you fancy if you happen to be in London on October 17, Waterstones Piccadilly, 18.30 – 20.30. Entry is £5 and tickets are required in advance from events@piccadilly.waterstones.com