Take Charge of You

About the Author

David Novak and Jason Goldsmith, the authors of "Take Charge of You: How Self-Coaching Can Transform Your Life and Career", bring together a wealth of knowledge in leadership and personal development. David Novak, renowned for his role as the CEO of Yum! Brands, is a highly regarded figure in the business world. His leadership philosophy is built on the foundation of people-centric management and the importance of nurturing talent. He is an advocate for the concept that great leaders are also great coaches, capable of inspiring and guiding their teams to success. His co-author, Jason Goldsmith, is a renowned performance coach who has worked with elite athletes and business professionals, helping them unlock their potential and achieve peak performance. Together, Novak and Goldsmith offer a comprehensive guide to self-coaching, providing practical tools and strategies for personal and professional growth.

Main Idea

At the heart of "Take Charge of You" is the empowering idea that individuals can coach themselves to success. The book argues that while external coaching can be incredibly beneficial, not everyone has access to a coach, nor is it always practical. Therefore, learning to self-coach becomes an invaluable skill. The authors introduce the concept of a self-coaching mindset, which involves a proactive and reflective approach to personal and professional development. This mindset empowers individuals to take responsibility for their growth, set meaningful goals, and navigate obstacles with resilience and insight. The book is structured around key questions and strategies that guide readers through the process of self-coaching, offering a roadmap to achieving their aspirations.

Table of Contents

• Introduction: The Power of Self-Coaching
• Chapter 1: The Self-Coaching Conversation
• Chapter 2: Developing a Self-Coaching Mindset
• Chapter 3: Creating a Self-Coaching Plan
• Chapter 4: The Self-Coaching Journey
• Chapter 5: Maintaining Momentum
• Conclusion: Coaching Others as You Coach Yourself

Introduction: The Power of Self-Coaching

The introduction of "Take Charge of You" sets the stage by emphasizing the transformative potential of self-coaching. Novak and Goldsmith assert that anyone can become their own coach, regardless of their background or current situation. The authors explain that self-coaching is not merely about self-improvement; it's about taking an active role in shaping one's destiny. This involves cultivating a mindset that is open to learning, self-reflection, and continuous growth. The authors highlight that the journey of self-coaching begins with understanding oneself and one’s aspirations, which sets the foundation for meaningful change.

Chapter 1: The Self-Coaching Conversation

The first chapter introduces the concept of the self-coaching conversation, a critical starting point for anyone embarking on this journey. Novak and Goldsmith outline four key questions designed to help individuals gain clarity on their goals and challenges: