Coaching at Work annual conference:Languishing to Flourishing, online, 23 November, 2021
Yvette Sargood shared the findings at the conference from her preliminary research exploring the relationship between mindfulness and learning agility in HiPo leaders, inviting participants to reflect on her findings and explore possible implications for our coaching practice.
Sargood established the ‘why’ for her novel study as part of her Master’s degree in mindfulness at Exeter University, highlighting the significant need to develop next-generation leaders in organisations and particularly now, given the pandemic-associated complexities. She emphasised that learning agility – knowing what to do when you don’t know what to do – is considered to be the number one predictor of high potential. The evidence base for mindfulness shows that when faced with a challenge, taking a mindful pause can change the way we respond and this is where the potential for strengthening learning agility lies.
In her exploration of mindfulness Sargood invited us to pause for a few minutes to connect with our lived experience in the moment. She then unpacked each of her research questions, offering time and space for participants to reflect on the contents in the context of our work as coaches.
The first question was whether mindfulness impacts the learning of HiPo leaders. Her preliminary evidence is compelling, with a high percentage of participants reporting a significant increase in each facet of The Talentx7 Assessment of Learning Agility tool she used. Participants completed the questionnaire before and after attending the eight-week mindfulness course she delivered. Two facets were particularly striking: 70% reported an increase in self-insight and 80% a perceived reduction in stress.
She next asked, what else might mindfulness influence that’s helpful for this group. Three clear elements emerged in Yvette’s research: self leadership, connected leadership and conscious leadership. We certainly need leaders who are present, self-aware, listen deeply, pause for perspective and clarity and are able to respond with consideration and compassion.
The last question was whether it has a role in leadership development programmes. The answer is a resounding yes.
Sargood is continuing her research, having just embarked on a PhD programme.