By Loralee Olejnik
The Del Mar Times
May 2, 2003

More than ever, businesses are acknowledging that employee compensation means more than base pay and 401k plans. Today's workers almost as importantly need to feel acknowledgment, fulfillment and satisfaction through their work. One way that individuals and corporations are enhancing employee performance and reaching their potential at work and in life is through executive coaching.

The purpose of executive coaching, according to Mitch Simon, Del Mar executive coach and founder of the Simon Alliance Group, is "to activate individuals through their work to live productive and meaningful lives." "When I show individuals that when they work according to their values and the values of the company, and through their work, tap into what is most important, I unleash their ability to perform effectively, joyfully, and consistently," he continues.

Coaching is growing in popularity, not only by individuals seeking someone to tap their inner motivation, but also by corporations wanting to create more efficient, loyal workers through investment in their emotional well-being and personal development. Coaching takes place at all levels of the organization from top executives and CEOs to staff and support positions, one-on-one and with teams. Coaching endeavors to show people how to improve efficiency in their work through improving the total quality of their lives, making them more balanced, focused employees.

Simon believes that one of the biggest intrinsic motivators for people is to see that change is really possible in their lives, and that they are not locked into their current states permanently. To help people recognize these alternatives and expand their worldview, or "structure of interpretation," executive coaching exposes clients to new ways of thinking, speaking, and behaving that exposes their options.

The goal of the coaching exercises is create new thought patterns and attitudes that will lead to lasting life changes, rather than just provide a temporary emotional massage, typical in a society that wants quick fixes. "I know that my purpose has been to make people effective at what they are doing, and do it for the long term," Simon said.

Especially since 9/11 has this issue of meaningful work become salient, as people have been reevaluating the priorities in their lives. Many have found that they are not satisfied in their current work, or have been putting too much emphasis on work at the expense of their personal lives. Some professionals have even decided to make mid-life career changes to pursue a dream job or to try something different.

"Executive coaching helps people dig deep and find out what they're passionate about and go after that," said Simon. "Since 9/11, Americans understand that life is so short, and so precious. The important things in life are family, friends, and spending life in meaningful activity. We are given one opportunity in life to work in activities that are meaningful and purposeful. When we work purposefully, we create great joy for ourselves, for the people we touch, and for our families."

For more information on personal or corporate coaching, call Mitch Simon at (858) 353-0930

Reprint from Del Mar Times – May 2-8, 2003 issue