Sabine Asgodom in conversation with Guido Neuland
Sabine Asgodom is a founding member and past president of the German Speakers Association (GSA), an author, mother, journalist, lecturer, and much more: what this woman accomplishes even makes the hearts of the usually reserved men beat faster. As early as 2004, the Financial Times Deutschland listed her among the 101 most important women in business. Today, this award-winning powerhouse is in conversation with Guido Neuland on our dialogue portal.
Guido Neuland: "Ms. Asgodom, you are making coaching a public matter for the first time and have gained a competent media partner in Bavarian Television. What do you think the viewers will say? What do you hope to achieve with this?"
Sabine Asgodom: Hopefully, the viewers will say, "Oh look – there are other perspectives! Fascinating, I wouldn't have thought of that on my own!" I want coaching to have a wider impact, to be discussed openly. I want my friend to not only offer comfort during marital crises or problems with colleagues, but to truly help and develop solutions. Sometimes it happens very quickly. I call that "high-speed coaching"!
When does it start?
We're recording right now – it will air from the end of October, every Friday evening after the comedy show. It's like late-night coaching – I'm really looking forward to it!
From couch to coach – can you replace one with the other?
Not entirely. But what the couch was in the 20th century, coaching is increasingly becoming! I advocate for "looking to the future," rather than dwelling on childhood, not endlessly searching for causes! Last week, I happened to discover these breakfast boards with sayings. One said: "It's never too late for a happy childhood!" I like that. My coaching is for people who are interested in solutions, who want to put the words "problem" or "challenge" aside...
Where do you think you got your talent for dealing with people? And do you recognize it in your children?
I've always had a passion for the stage: at seven, to the amusement of my parents and grandparents, I imitated Catharina Valente; at 14, I led a youth group; and later, in my professional life, I was always committed to my colleagues: as a trade unionist and as a works council member. I've always wanted people to be happy – and that's been a constant throughout my life.
And yes – when I think of my children – they make people smile, and I suppose they do have one or two genes from me!
You give 120 percent to everything you do. But you don't do everything anymore. Do you think this could also be a piece of life experience? That everyone could start here, perhaps just lacking the courage?
Absolutely! I've said this so many times, and it's still true! Years ago, a man suggested I only work 80 percent so I'd have more breathing room. I toyed with the idea for a while until I was sure: it's not for me! I want to give 120 percent to what I do – but that means I simply don't do everything. It's worth deciding what only I can and want to do, and delegating everything else! Learning a new kind of "humility," letting go, trusting!
And it gives me a particularly good feeling when I can decline a job but recommend a colleague! That's good for me and my colleagues!
Courage is a fascinating topic in itself. Are you more courageous than other people? For example, did you quit your job when you were really successful?
I haven't seen it that way for a long time. But yes, I am courageous. And certainly more courageous today than I was 30 years ago! If I want to shape my life, I have to be brave. "Try it out" – don't put it off. For example: So many people tell me, "I'd like to write a book someday!" – "Then do it!" is all I can say. Make a Plan B, write a book, take a long trip… Just start!
An example from my own life: over 20 years ago, I also didn't know if I wanted to work full-time as a trainer. So, I first gained experience by teaching weekend courses at the Puchheim-Bahnhof adult education center. And it was a good experience: as you can see, I actually gave up my job as a journalist and started something completely new!
I think your breakfast get-together is a great idea! A fixed day once a month, in a nice café, where any of your friends who have the time or are nearby can simply drop by. With all the travel you do throughout the year, that's sure to be a great foundation for friendships! Is this get-together still happening?
Unfortunately, breakfast wasn't included! It was probably also because a mid-morning break isn't feasible for everyone. I now prefer to meet my friends and the people who are important to me for dinner, and it's still spontaneous: a group call via email and whoever can come. Relying on organized parties wouldn't be enough for me! Although I have to say that the old definition of "work-life balance" doesn't fit me. For me, work is also life – it can't be separated. I simply enjoy working very much, and I even think while showering or eating dinner – for me, it's all one.
Where do you get your energy from?
Oh – my husband often asks me that too! You know, I get so much back from the listeners and participants! So much energy and love! I'm often tired after my seminars – but never drained! I just finished a three-day seminar, "From Trainer to Speaker," in Mainz. Despite the intensive work, I leave feeling so fulfilled; I don't need to compensate or reward myself! It's simply perfect, just the way it is!
What kind of people come to you? Are there any commonalities, or are they all from all industries and age groups? Are there more women?
Yes – 70 percent are women! And the men who come to my seminars are truly special men! They appreciate the female professional perspective. I'm increasingly working with executives, entrepreneurs from small and medium-sized businesses, trainers, and coaches – basically, all people who make their own decisions!
Which of your own 24 books is your favorite? And which book are you currently reading?
Counter-question: Which child do you love the most? I can't answer that question based on my own favorite books. Of course, there are books that stand out. My book "Self-Praise Is True – The Art of Self-PR" was the start of my own success story. And it's still a long-seller! And yes – the book you wrote most recently is naturally closer to your heart! "Life Is Too Short for Crispbread" – that's the title of my latest book!
I recently read a biography of Susan Boyle – an English housewife who unexpectedly launched a singing career. For me, she's a wonderful example of a huge talent who was invisible in our world. She found a stage and showcased her talent. And that's what we should all learn: to make ourselves and our abilities visible!
And which book should our readers absolutely know about?
To have or to be! By Erich Fromm! Again and again – in a society where it's often only about having! It's as if he had only just written it now!
How do you prepare your seminars? Do you work with sketchbooks or directly on the pinboard? What type are you?
I'm thinking about specific learning objectives for the seminar. But then I'm more of an intuitive flipchart type! And – you're welcome to mention this – I bought all the colors of the modern, vibrant Neuland markers at the last "Personal" trade fair in Hamburg! Fantastic!! And with them, I create generous, intuitive flipchart sheets – completely spontaneously, based on the situation.
And finally: who should answer these or similar questions here in the Neuland Dialogue Portal?
I recommend Andrea Lienhart and her new book, "Respect at Work." She's a very thoughtful and charming person. Her book perfectly captures the spirit of the times! Or Dr. Matthias Nöllke—a non-fiction author who shows us what we can learn from animals for business! His book is called "Of Bees and Alpha Wolves."
Thank you so much, dear Mrs. Asgodom, for our conversation!
Learn more about Sabine Asgodom on her website
www.asgodom.de