I never anticipated that attending an arts and business conference in a medieval castle overlooking the Drava River in Slovenia in 2004 would be a pivotal moment for me. The experience was unique and forward-thinking, exposing me to a diverse group of talented individuals. Among them were coaches, a profession I was unfamiliar with and initially viewed with some reservation, despite understanding the concept of coaching in a sporting context.
However, this encounter planted a seed. As I returned to Australia and began developing Maverick Minds, my professional trajectory shifted. I found myself drawn to the world of coaching, investing significantly in honing my skills through continuous learning and development. My background in the arts and creative sectors naturally led me to specialise in coaching for creativity, recognising its fundamental importance in bringing new ideas to life.
Why focus on creativity?
Because creativity lies at the heart of everything new we do, and it’s our most incredible natural resource. When we aim to bring something new and valuable into the world, imagination becomes our springboard into the unknown. But imagination alone isn’t enough; we must also combine our capabilities, resources, and courage.
As a creative coach, I work alongside my clients, providing quality space and time for people to pause and focus their thoughts, time and energy on matters that are important to them.
Understanding the Creative Coaching Partnership
What does it look like to work with a creative coach? Each conversation is a unique and dynamic experience tailored to your specific needs. Whether you’re a creative juggling your passion with a full-time job, a business owner aiming for growth, a manager wanting to connect with your team, a leader navigating complexity, or a professional in career transition, coaching provides a powerful catalyst for growth in each scenario.
This collaborative process unfolds in what I call The Third Space: a unique, creative, and learning-rich environment built between the client and coach.
Drawing on the definition by Dr Vikki G Brock, coaching is “a dynamic and contextual mutual-learning process that fosters self and behavioural awareness, personal growth, and conscious choice for the highest good.”
As your coach, my intention is to:
- Hold a respectful and non-judgmental space.
- Listen deeply and ask curious, open questions.
- Reflect your thoughts to sharpen focus and awareness.
- Offer insights, gentle challenges, and creative tools (with your permission).
- Always empower you as the driver of your journey.
The Benefits of Creative Coaching are wide-ranging, benefiting individuals, leaders, teams, entrepreneurs, innovators, and creative practitioners who are ready for positive change.
Clients often report that coaching helps them to:
- Focus on priorities
- Develop self-awareness
- Uncover hidden talents
- Keep dreams alive
- Build creative cultures
- Increase problem-solving confidence
- Overcome resistance and doubt
- Maintain accountability and energy
- Shift thinking and gain new insights for meaningful impact.
Coaching has a rich history, influenced by fields like philosophy, sports, and adult learning, highlighting its multidisciplinary nature. Its evolution reflects the increasing complexity of modern society and the need for individual support and growth.
An Invitation to Explore:
What challenges are you currently facing? What aspirations are calling you? Could a dedicated coaching conversation and giving yourself the space to pause be beneficial? How effectively are you and your team operating? Are you having crucial conversations?
I wonder what your history making moments have been. A particular time, a particular place? An unexpected moment that happened to change your course? Recalling these times can be very enlightening.
If you’re curious to explore these questions or the possibility of working together, I offer individual and team coaching packages – available in person, virtually, or by phone.
You can learn more here:
👉 Maverick Minds Coaching Services
Or simply get in touch:
📧 cathryn@maverickminds.com.au
📞 +61 406 007 753
Yours creatively,
Dr. Cathryn Lloyd
Founder/Director — Maverick Minds