Questions for Buddy: Janine Vinken

Why do people do what they do? And how did they become who they are? With these questions in mind, Janine Vinken decided to study psychology. She wanted to learn to understand people. As a coach at Buddy, she teaches her coachees to reflect. So that they gain insight into what is going well. And what can be improved.

Without false modesty: why are you a good coach?
A good coach listens above all. And dares to ask questions that chafe. In this way you help to bring out the knowledge and strength that someone already has, to be able to take steps in the right direction. I have a keen listening ear and am empathetic. I like to put myself in someone else’s frame of reference and let someone come to insights with open questions.

What do you hope to contribute to with your role?

In my role as a coach, I hope to empower people. So that they do more things that give them energy. And dare to take steps that contribute to their growth as people. Organizations in turn reap the benefits of this.

How do you do that?

Happiness at work starts with self-knowledge. Understand what motivates you, what your values are and what gives you energy. Then make sure you have balance. Fun and well-being arise in a balance between challenge and relaxation, work and private life. Guard your boundaries and learn to say “no” if something doesn’t fit your energy or priorities. And finally: find the connection. Strong relationships in the workplace contribute to your sense of pleasure and well-being. Share your successes and struggles, look for collaborations, and invest in trust.

“A good coach listens above all. And dares to ask questions that chafe. In this way, you help to bring out the strength and knowledge that someone already has, in order to be able to take steps in the right direction.”

Do you have an ultimate tip to achieve this?

Yes, the Energy Audit. Take five minutes every day for a week to think about three questions: what gave you energy today, what cost you energy and what can you do to put more focus on the energy givers?

What is your favorite leisure activity?

I play theatre. In it, I can also express my drive to understand people very well. Understanding a character, and then portraying it as realistically as possible: I love doing it. And then I can occasionally experiment with anger and anger, emotions that I can find quite exciting to allow in real life.

What didn’t you know when you just started (and do you know now)?

Many people struggle with the same things and are very strict with themselves. It can already give a lot of room in your development to look at yourself with a little milder view. This way you can discover step by step where you want to grow.

Questions about this topic? Please contact us.