We communicate constantly, but many of us are trapped in a cycle of overthinking, creating worst-case scenarios in our minds that simply do not exist.
Today’s guest on The Edge of Possible, Mark Setch, has spent over 5,000 hours coaching leaders to break free from these mental wars and find their true purpose.
Mark is an ICF Master Certified Coach and the Coaching and MBA Course Leader at ACAP University College in Australia.
He has lived the journey of authenticity not just once, but multiple times, walking away from a successful accounting career to become a pastor, and then leaving 33 years of ministry to become a leader in the coaching world.
In this conversation, we are breaking down the exact playbook for finding your authentic path.
We talk about how to stop being a “serial overthinker” , the questions to ask to get clear on your purpose, and the powerful lessons from his 31-year marriage and why having the “hard conversations” are the secret to a deep, lasting love.
“When we get revelation about the who of our authentic self, we then know where to look and channel our thinking.” – Mark Setch
In This Episode, You Will Learn
- How to identify and change the ingrained narratives that are keeping you stuck.
- The specific questions to ask yourself to uncover your best, most fulfilled self.
- Why “getting on with it” is often the best cure for the anxiety of the unknown.
- The role of an optimistic disposition in building long-term resilience through adversity.
- How to maintain your individuality and authenticity within a long-term relationship.
- Why taking responsibility is the ultimate form of liberation.
- Plus much more…
What We Discuss:
- 00:00 – Introduction: Overthinking and Assumptions
- 01:27 – Meet Mark Setch: A Journey of Authenticity
- 03:16 – Defining Your Own Narrative
- 04:46 – The Power of a Compelling Vision
- 07:15 – Mark’s Personal Journey: From Accountant to Pastor
- 15:56 – Embracing Change and Uncertainty
- 25:25 – The Importance of Optimism and Resilience
- 37:36 – Aligning Actions with Purpose
- 52:54 – Challenging Perceptions and Assumptions
- 56:31 – Challenging Assumptions and Valuing Opinions
- 56:48 – The Importance of External Feedback
- 57:28 – Personal Story: Overcoming Failure
- 1:00:42 – The Key to a Successful Marriage
- 1:04:46 – Maintaining Individuality in Relationships
- 1:13:39 – Nurturing Relationships After Kids
- 1:16:36 – Career Transition and Finding Alignment
- 1:23:39 – Advice for Younger Self: Asking the Right Questions
- 1:25:20 – Practical Steps for Self-Discovery
- 1:31:00 – The Role of Courage and Strategic Decisions
- 1:36:27 – Rapid Fire: Values, Beliefs, and Habits
- 1:41:19 – Conclusion and Final Thoughts
About Mark
Mark Setch is an International Coaching Federation (ICF) Master Certified Coach and Educator. His vision is to inspire and equip people of all ages and walks of life to unleash their life and leadership potential and step up to a new level of confidence, competence, and fulfilment within their personal and professional lives.
Mark began his career as an Accountant in the Australian Government, before a change in direction to church pastoral ministry, including leading a multi-staff church while completing a doctorate. A further change in direction, Mark trained as a coach and developed a leadership and personal development coaching practice. His clients include leaders in business, government, and not-for-profit organisations. As Mark’s passion for coaching education grew, he moved to a teaching role at ACAP University College in Australia, where he currently serves as Senior Lecturer and Coaching/MBA Course Leader. He was the 2024 recipient of ACAP’s Andrew Little Teaching Excellence Award. Mark also serves on the ICF Coaching Education Global Board of Directors.
Outside of teaching and coaching, Mark enjoys long beach walks with his wife Kerri, reading Jeffrey Archer novels, gardening, and hanging out with friends.
Show Notes
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