Newsletter – June 2024

As we reach the halfway mark of the year, I’m positively bursting with gratitude and excitement! The dedication and commitment of our vibrant member community has been nothing short of instrumental in achieving our milestones and fostering connections that truly make this chapter shine.

Victor Frankl had it right – between every stimulus and response, there’s a space where we find our freedom. And boy, have we been making the most of that freedom! As a Board Member, each of us has chosen to be curious, to ask how we can best serve our members. And you, our beloved members, have responded with enthusiasm, engagement, and a whole lot of pizazz. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

I still remember my first ICF Hong Kong session – the topic was “Demonstrating an Ethical Practice.” Dry as a desert, right? But lo and behold, it was a veritable oasis of connection, sharing, and learning. That feeling of belonging has never left me. In fact, it inspired me to not just join, but to put my hand up and serve on the Board. Let me tell you, the screening process and interviews were no walk in the park, but the dedication and commitment required have only made me more determined to keep this chapter thriving.

And thrive we shall, my friends! Each and every one of you is an integral part of what makes the ICF Hong Kong Chapter truly special. Our coaching community, filled with world-class leaders and professionals like yourselves, is elevating the global standard of coaching. Here, we prove that coaches don’t have to navigate their journey alone – you belong here. Just like I did, you can find your anchor, your tribe, and your wellspring of inspiration.

Speaking of inspiration, have you been keeping up with our jam-packed calendar of events? From the Practice Makes Perfect series to the Thought Leadership extravaganzas, the Coach’s Tool Box sessions, and our ever-popular member engagements, there’s something to keep even the most insatiable learner engaged. As the wise Dr. Haesan Moon once said, “We live in conversations.” And, my friends, we are dwelling in some truly magnificent ones here at ICF Hong Kong.

Now, let’s talk about those pesky dreams and goals, shall we? As Olympian Alexi Pappas so eloquently shared, it’s all about keeping that balance – feeling good a third of the time, feeling just “okay” another third, and downright “crummy” for the final third. But you know what they say, “If you’re feeling bad all the time, it’s a sign of fatigue. And if you’re feeling good all the time, well, you’re probably not working hard enough!” So, let’s keep on keeping on, my fellow coaches, and know that we’re doing just fine.

As for me, I have learned so much from the collective wisdom and experiences shared within this group. The discussions, the resources, the insights – they’ve all left me feeling inspired and empowered. It’s truly a rare and precious gift to find a space where people come together so genuinely to lift each other up. I am honored to have been a part of it.

Now, the time has come for me to bid you all a fond farewell as I embark on a new adventure, relocating from my Hong Kong home of the last 12 years. But as the timeless lyrics of Dame Vera Lynn remind us, “We’ll meet again, don’t know where, don’t know when, but I know we’ll meet again some sunny day.” So, keep on smiling through, just like you always do, and know that I’ll be cheering you on from afar.

Wishing you all the best, my dear ICF Hong Kong family!

Arunanjali (Anu) Maria
Professional Development, ICF HK Board