Post by Ken Burger

What strikes me as I think about my experience working in a partnership arrangement, like the Indianapolis ICF and HealthNet have entered into, is the increased pool of energy that is almost immediately created. From the moment I got wind of a possible partnership opportunity I felt energy from just the idea of it.

This phenomenon, having caught my attention, makes me curious about why it is producing energy for me.

One thought comes to mind. Isn’t it intrinsically satisfying to just be helpful or to be helped? Its kind of what we say to someone when we partner up, “We can help each other.” Even a heartfelt gesture of simply shaking hands in agreement can muster increased energy.

Thinking of the equation, “The whole is greater than the sum of its parts” and the idea of symbiosis also reinforces the idea that increased energy is an understandable result of a partnership. 

When someone responds to you in a way that says, “I trust you enough to work with you” isn’t that another shot of energy?  And there is the idea of providing a service to one another, of giving that energizes. Having an outlet for your energy to plug into, to be of value to someone, to know that a little bit of help means a lot and goes a long way; all these are very energizing.

Entering into a partnership should provide an avenue to bring value, to do that thing that you do, to let people know you’re out there.  A list of benefits for both parties would be extensive and eye-opening.

I certainly have a deeper sense of awareness and appreciation for the many positives resulting from a good partnership. That could go on the list.  As for me, it’s definitely been about the energy.

I became a coach in 2007.  Prior to that time I had served in a number of senior leadership roles over a 30 year business career.  I became a coach to help individuals and groups of people find greater performance in their business lives and greater satisfaction in their personal lives.

That ‘connection’ with those that I coach is a sacred space.  I am often afforded a look into a person’s most vulnerable self.  In that moment I must be able to respond with gentleness and respect.  Often, that ‘look’ inside provides the clue(s) as how to best guide them to personal discovery that enables them to unlock one or more keys to substantial growth.

HealthNet is a place of many sacred places and spaces as professionals work to deliver physical and behavioral care…many times to those who can least afford it.  They change lives through education, the quality of their interaction and influence with the patients, and the physical and emotional healing they are able to provide.

Coaching and those that work at HealthNet are in the business of helping people become more of who they were created to be.  We both use our training and our gifts to reach people and help people get from where they are to a better place.

I appreciate the opportunity to serve HealthNet in my capacity on the Board, and as a coach contributing to the advancement of the HealthNet Leadership Academy.  This has been a great experience!

HealthNet is cultivating leaders and you could be next!  In April, HealthNet’s Senior Leadership Team formed the HealthNet Leadership Academy.  The Academy is comprised of professional coaches who have enjoyed success in business and now have a passion to identify and cultivate leadership within the HealthNet organization.  Imagine my surprise when I was given the opportunity to take part in the HealthNet Leadership Academy and have my skill set evaluated by those who have a proven track record of success in business and leadership.

During the first meeting we were introduced to nine “Coaches” who presented us with brief biographies of themselves.  Subsequently, we were instructed to select one Coach from the group who would provide three leadership sessions with us individually.

After two sessions with my coach, Jim Struck, I am convinced that this has been one of the most empowering opportunities that I have ever been presented.

Together, my Coach and I have quickly identified areas of improvement that are attainable and realistic.  I am excited not only for myself but for others like me who will benefit from the expertise of these professionals.

There is an old proverb that says; Give a man a fish and you will feed him for a day, teach him how to fish and he will feed himself for a lifetime.  I know that the Healthnet Leadership Academy has been a benefit for me.  I wonder “Who’s next?”