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What is Self-Correction?

Written by Mary Berney Wednesday, 16 June 2010 00:00

As a Coach, part of my job is teaching the skill of self-correction. What is it?

Self-correction is the ability to alter your thinking, feeling or behavior, in the moment to immediately change the path you are on in a conversation, in an activity or in a solo endeavor.

We are actually taught a version of this very early on in our childhood when our parents or authority figure tells us to 'straighten-up and behave!' That is self-correcting behavior, only instigated by someone else! The adult doesn't approve of what we are doing and tells us to get a grip and do right! So, we have to pay attention to their message and follow directions. This is one of the ways we learn to make personal change. It's not the only way, however!

What I'm referring to now is your ability to do this self-correcting without someone telling you to change, ordering you to do something different or otherwise someone else being the facilitator of your change. It's you, recognizing in the moment of your experience, that you need to change course. What this requires is some level of self-awareness: your thoughts, your actions and how they impact others, your feelings and how they hold you hostage to a negative path or projected outcome.

In relationships, this is a very important skill.

At work, we are put in the position of having performance appraisals where our boss will tell us what we are to correct once or twice a year. We always think we're doing a great job until someone comes along and gives us feedback that alters our perception of our self. Of course, you can do a self evaluation, but that requires objectivity and the willingness to admit your weaknesses, faults, inadequacies or areas you need to improve. It can be done!

At play and recreation, self-correcting behavior is often not a concern because our focus is to simply have fun and not be tuned in to making a change. Unless of course, your recreational activities are not cutting it, then you have to make a decision to find some new events, activities to become involved in.

In personal relationships, this is a very important skill because it means you are open and willing to self-correct on your own as a result of your heightened sense of awareness and impact on others. In fact,, this is preferred in all situations!

If you know your life and relationships aren't going the way you want, then it's time to self-correct. Coaches, counselors, therapists are wonderful resources. Reach out and use them. That's what we're here for!