A true story.

I was listening to my coaching client intently and with great interest, making direct eye contact, and fully in the moment when I realized I had never seen him smile.

He was (still is) the CEO of a global, multi-billion dollar company, and while he hired me as his Life and Executive Coach, he was very sure of his own ways of doing things.

There was this serious man, taking himself very seriously, having serious opinions and a rigid view of others. He seemed intent on rationalizing every move, decision, performance, dynamic, vision and strategy.

“When did you last follow your heart when making a corporate decision?” I suddenly asked.

He looked at me inquisitively, and said nothing for a moment. “Never” he replied “there is no place for sentiments here.”

I pondered his words carefully, then said gently:

“I have never seen you smile…”

There was a long pause. And then, slowly, a wide, relieved smile spread across his face.

I was moved by how a simple, yet caring observation melted his severity.

“Now our work really starts” I added, and he said: “Indeed.”

Life Coaching lesson: Not following your heart can slowly destroy your soul. Even if you’re an important executive.

Ella Scheinwald