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David’s Commix
According to the dictionary, new can be defined as produced, introduced, or discovered recently or now for the first time; not existing before. The concepts and phrases that are synonymous include recently developed, newly discovered, brand new, up to the minute, up to date, latest, current, state-of-the-art, contemporary, present-day, advanced, recent, and modern.
This really got me thinking about all of the phrases that contain the word ‘new’. Naturally, that led to a trawl through the internet which yielded a plethora of idioms, some of which I am sure you will recognise:
• the new kid on the block
• break new ground
• bright as a new pin
• a new brooms sweep clean
• there is nothing new under the sun
• you cannot teach an old dog new tricks
• give a new lease of life
• feel like a new man/woman
• take on a new significance.
For anyone with an interest in language I would invite you to explore the deeper meanings further. For those involved in coaching or with an interest in self-development, you may recognise some of the expressions. Sadly, at times, these can fall into jargon or ‘buzz words’ rather than understanding the true meaning and doing something meaningful with it.
Interestingly, the second definition of new is defined as ‘already existing but seen, experienced, or acquired recently or now for the first time’. Bringing something into awareness is one of the key themes of coaching and it is perhaps that concept that I can most relate to.
At the time of writing this, there is an article on the internet sports channel with the heading, ‘Andy Murray in no hurry to find new coach’, followed by ‘Murray said he had not spoken to any prospective coaches but was open to the idea of bringing someone new into his team.’
Which leads us where, exactly? Truthfully, I have no idea; this is all new to me. Sorry, I could not resist.
When we look at what new means for us or our clients, let’s just be clear on what exactly we mean by that. Feel free to explore and to discuss. If clients ask for coaching because they want ‘a new lease of life’ or they want to ‘feel like a new man/woman’, get to grips with what that means.
As is my whim, I will leave you with two quotes that challenge the concept of newness. What are your thoughts on the matter?
“Nothing is original. Steal from anywhere that resonates with inspiration or fuels your imagination. Devour old films, new films, music, books, paintings, photographs, poems, dreams, random conversations, architecture, bridges, street signs, trees, clouds, bodies of water, light and shadows. Select only things to steal from that speak directly to your soul. If you do this, your work (and theft) will be authentic. Authenticity is invaluable; originality is non-existent. And don’t bother concealing your thievery - celebrate it if you feel like it. In any case, always remember what Jean-Luc Godard said: “It’s not where you take things from - it’s where you take
David Monro-Jones AFC ASM
IIC&M Managing Director
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take them to." - Jim Jarmusc., Independent filmmaker, MovieMaker Magazine 53, winter, January 22, 2004.
What has been will be again, what has been done will be done again; there is nothing new under the sun. - Ecclesiastes 1:9
Until next time.