Coaching for Optimal Energy: A Guide for Executive Coaches

A completely new way of considering energy in executive coaching, the concept of Optimal Energy® is based on original research. The book is an essential resource for practitioners who want to effectively address energy with their clients and enable them to take action to optimise their energy in and out of work.
Suboptimal energy levels in senior executives, although rarely considered, can negatively impact efficacy, feelings, behaviour and self-awareness both at work and in coaching sessions. But what is optimal energy? This needs to be addressed by executive coaches, but how? Coaching for Optimal Energy answers these questions and challenges previous thinking on the subject.
Written for executive coaches, and appropriate for anyone who works with people, for the first time in coaching literature the book gives a research-based definition of the concept of energy and examines how it manifests in people, explores the influences on energy and offers clear, practical guidance for addressing this with clients.

Viv Chitty is a highly experienced executive coach, with over 20 years’ experience, and a coach supervisor. She runs a coaching consultancy and is passionate about working with senior clients who have multiple challenges to face.

This topic is as elusive as energy itself. However, Viv Chitty has taken this big challenge and put it at the centre of her exploration. She does this methodically and intelligently, unravelling complex concepts and offering practical ideas which are immediately applicable for our complex practice. A very important read for coaches and coaching supervisors. Prof Tatiana Bachkirova, Professor of Coaching Psychology, Oxford Brookes

A hugely important, and deeply research-based book, made available to us right when we need it. It’s written for executive coaches, and will be required reading for that profession, but it should be core reading for medics and anyone in business or government. Catherine Devitt, CEO Meyler Campbell, Executive Coach

This rigorously researched book is a gift to practitioners, clients and organisations addressing the often ignored territory of ‘human energy in the context of the workplace’. Viv Chitty asserts that having optimal energy is essential for high performance and she is right. Many aspects of energy are thoroughly addressed: physiological, emotional and cognitive including stress – all fundamentally important in life and business. Edna Murdoch, Director, Coaching Supervision Academy

A treasure trove of the many interrelated facets of energy. The author combines evidence both from published research and lived experience. Readers will find clearly presented facts on each facet and detailed diagrams of related parts of the conceptual model. As I read each chapter I sensed Viv beside me, guiding me to think widely and deeply about energy, and to continue to develop awareness of my own and others’ levels. Fiona Adamson, Coach Supervisor, Author

Insightful and above all usable – not just for coaches but for anyone managing people. The author writes with such clarity and ease that the deep research behind the concept of optimal energy doesn’t get in the way of its usefulness. Extensive quotes from experienced coaches bring authenticity and refreshing liveliness – some are unforgettable. I loved it. Kitty Chisholm, Leadership Coach, award-winning author

I read as much as I can on the topic of energy and leadership and this book stands out for its thoughtful and rigorous analysis of the concept and what it means in the workplace. I made many notes and had many ‘aha’ moments while reading it. As an executive coach, I will be returning to this book often as more and more clients want to not only do well, but be well and see the link between optimal energy and high performance. Dr Sarah Taylor, Founder and CEO of ThriveWise and Executive Health Coach

Viv Chitty is a highly experienced executive coach, with over 20 years' experience, a coach supervisor and has a background in consultancy. Amongst other qualifications in psychology and counselling she holds an MA in Coaching and Mentoring. Viv runs a coaching consultancy which works with senior people in a wide variety of sectors. She is passionate about working with senior clients who have multiple challenges to face.