Why the Walk and Talk helps create space to reach a ‘better normal’

As we emerge from lockdown and hopefully the worst of the Coronavirus pandemic, I’m optimistic we are moving towards a ‘better normal’. The phrase a ‘better normal’ used recently by the Sophie Devonshire, new Chief Executive of The Marketing Society, is one that resonates with me in my work as a leadership coach and consultant to senior leaders across organisations.

There is recognition that now is the time to think about how we lead through, and towards, a ‘better normal’. Working together to create a world in which we feel confident, safe and comfortable in. More than ever we need to learn from our experiences, from what is working well and what is not working well in our lives and work.

Taking time to pause and reflect is key for us all, but particularly for senior leaders who will be redefining not only their own paths but also the direction of their business, brands and employees’ futures. In this post, I discuss some of the ways in which the Walk and Talk approach to coaching conversations will help provide the space needed to take the first step into the new world.

Why I am a believer in the Walk and Talk

Walking is my medicine. It’s as simple as that. It is something I am passionate about and have spoken about on many occasions, including in an interview with Radio 4. Talking with presenter John McCarthy, myself and a fellow South Downs Ranger discuss the spiritual, mental and emotional benefits that can be achieved by walking. If you’re interested you can listen to the interview here.

I believe that walking side by side offers a unique blend of intimacy and freedom. There is something comforting about being shoulder to shoulder and conversing. It makes it much easier to have moments of silence, to pause and reflect. At the same time, being outdoors enables bigger thinking. There is a growing body of neuroscience that suggests the benefits of ‘thinking on your feet’.

Whether dealing with conflict, challenge or a lack of clarity, being outside and being active in any capacity can literally help us move through things. Walking creates a space that allows us the freedom to think differently. For many, it serves as a type of meditation.

And for those who are able, you can walk anywhere. It doesn’t have to be in the countryside but can be on a beach (barefoot beach walking is particularly therapeutic), down your street or in a park. There’s also evidence to suggest that taking a “micro-moment” is highly effective, so you don’t have to be out for hours to feel the benefits.

Why it’s important to make space for change

The coronavirus pandemic is creating a lot of anxiety and tiredness, uncertainty and sadness, both now and for the future. Being able to Walk and Talk through our concerns can be a very healing process. There’s a lot that we can’t control at the moment and sometimes just sharing our feelings can make us feel more in control of the situation or at least the things that are affecting us the most.

What’s more, 2020 has been quite a static year. In lockdown our outdoor time was and is still limited. Many of us are not travelling to work or walking around offices but sitting at home for hours of online meetings. We need to be re-energised through movement to emerge from the situation stronger both mentally and physically into the hoped for ‘better normal’.

Recommended reading

Some books I recommend which are very closely aligned to my thinking on the Walk and Talk and have somewhat inspired my approach are:

In Praise of Walking: The new science of how we walk and why it’s good for us, by Shane O'Mara

Described as a ‘hymn to walking’, Shane discusses walking as a form of meditation and reveals the mental and physical benefits of walking, giving his unique perspective as a neuroscientist. Discover the book

Thinking on my Feet, by Kate Humble

Charting her thoughts, feelings and impressions over a year spent walking and running, Kate shares the benefits of thinking while moving. Discover the book

Step Back: How to Bring the Art of Reflection into Your Busy Life, by Joseph L. Badaracco

A wonderful practical guide to making the most of moments, of the ‘cracks and crevices’ in your busy work and life to pause, reflect and to focus. Discover the book

Walk: The path to a more mindful life, by Sholto Radford

Walk invites you to explore the benefits to be gained from the simple act of walking and spending time outdoors. Discover the book

The Art of Mindful Walking: Meditation on the Path, by Adam Ford

Adam contemplates the concept of a purposeful walking and applying mindfulness to walks ranging from a simple journey to a personal odyssey in the Australian outback. Discover the book

Path: A short story about reciprocity, by Louisa Thomsen Brits

Path is a positive life-affirming parable about a lonely figure who sets out on a journey of discovery to experience aliveness and moments of connection. Discover the book

Side by Side Conversations with Anni

You can find more information on the Walk and Talk webpage or please contact me to book a side by side conversation out in the glorious South Downs National Park.

Click below to discover Individual Leadership Coaching and the Walk and Talk approach with Anni.

Learn more

Featured