With over 10 years experience in the system change field, I’ve led and developed innovative, interdisciplinary programmes that span sectors across private, public, voluntary and community settings. Alongside qualifications in coaching and systemic consultancy I hold a deepened belief in the power of structured thinking and relational learning to help drive meaningful transformation.
I’ve spent many years leading people and teams who are doing their best in complex situations. What I’ve seen, time and again, is that most people already have the insight, capability and knowledge about how to move in the right direction. But the pace and structure around them often doesn’t provide time to notice it. This often leads to frustration, siloed working, blame, fear and a sense of feeling stuck. Change and sustained wellbeing has only ever happened when people have regularly engaged in spaces outside their day to day, to reflect, listen, voice and explore ideas, beliefs and perspectives.
Over the years, I’ve been part of the growing shift into Systems Thinking. Now a buzz word, ‘systems thinking’ is the simplest way of naming how people and organisations are changing to make sense and navigate the increasingly complex world effectively. People are being drawn to collaborative and relational ways of working, are valuing time to reflect, as well as being drawn to more nature based and health related activity. This maybe part of a response to the rapidly changing world we are in? We are all seeing the world differently from external influences, but for whatever reason we are now requiring suitable structures to support how we live and work.
There is a great deal of theory and methodology supporting this shift into more systemic practice and a clear growth in nature based activity. Whether this is a collective cultural response, or out of necessity, there is now evidence that supports how important it is. But what is it?
Ultimately it comes down to balance, and the effectiveness of what we do whilst considering the relationship and impact between other things. Effectiveness is often measured in terms of output but how often do we look at the input of our interactions and behaviours ? How often do we reflect on alignment with values and purpose? How well are we are able to hold, understand and learn from the multiple perspectives and external factors that influence us?
How out of balance or ineffective are we without time to think about this?
My work offers individuals and organisations a resource to have time to reflect, learn, and align. Through structured yet flexible space for dialogue and thinking, I help develop cohesion, thoughtful decision making, and an ability to hold uncertainty.
Coaching is widely recognised as a powerful tool to integrate into life and work and can be used to manage change, increase motivation, improve performance and facilitate growth. Both at individual and group level, research and expert sources consistently highlight its value and how its considered a vital part of helping us create a world we want.
If you are looking for a resource to support you or your organisation please get in touch for a 30 min discussion.
tom@thomasdunncoaching.com