Have you ever wanted something for someone more than they wanted it for themselves?
It’s tough.
It’s a lesson that I first had to learn with my parents. Before they passed, I spent a large chunk of my life trying to convince them to stop smoking and to quit drinking. I used logic and I used emotion. Neither worked.
I knew it would make them healthier, happier and higher performing, but in the end, I wanted it for them more than they wanted it for themselves.
I write this post today because I had a potential coaching client in a similar position. He wasn’t addicted to drugs or alcohol but suffered from other addictions. Beyond these, he also has very serious health problems, and if changes aren’t made, will legitimately take years off of his life.
Finances weren’t a problem and we had a great initial conversation about how/when we would get started.
Then, at the 11th hour, he decided it wasn’t the right time.
Not the right time? From my perspective, there’s never been a better time!
But that’s not for me to decide. I’m sure I’ve pulled back on making decisions that others knew would be in my best interests, too.
Human behavior is complex and, sometimes, you just have to love people where they’re at. And remember…
You can’t want something for someone more than they want it for themselves.
