What can Elphaba and Glinda from Wicked teach us?
Life Lessons from Wicked
1. Elphaba: The Power of Authenticity
Elphaba begins her journey as an outcast, misunderstood because of her green skin and uncompromising ideals. But as the story unfolds, she learns that embracing her true self—flaws, strengths, and all—is the key to her strength.
Coaching Takeaway: Authenticity is at the heart of personal growth. In coaching, helping clients uncover and embrace who they truly are, without the masks or societal pressures, is transformative. The more they align their actions with their values, the more empowered they become.
Coaching Tip: I encourage my clients to reflect on what they’re hiding from the world or from themselves. Sometimes, unlocking this truth is the first step to growth.
2. Glinda: Believing in Others
At first glance, Glinda seems like the "good witch" who has it all together. But beneath the surface, she’s someone who truly believes in the potential of others. Even when others dismiss Elphaba, Glinda sees her unique strengths and encourages her to embrace them.
Coaching Takeaway: The power of a coach lies in their ability to see potential in others, even when those individuals don’t yet see it themselves. A coach who believes in their client can help unlock their full potential.
Coaching Tip: Let me ask you who has believed in you when you struggled to believe in yourself? It’s often a powerful way to see things from a fresh perspective.
3. Collaboration Over Competition
While Elphaba and Glinda initially clash, their relationship evolves into one of mutual respect. They come to realise that their differences make them stronger when they work together toward a common goal.
Coaching Takeaway: Collaboration is key in both personal and professional growth. As a coach, it’s important for me to help my clients see how their unique strengths can complement those of others, turning competition into cooperation.
Coaching Tip: Explore how your strengths can work in tandem with those of others in their life or career? What synergies exist that you might not have seen before?
4. The Journey of Self-Discovery
Both Elphaba and Glinda go through profound self-discovery. Elphaba learns to embrace her role as an outsider, while Glinda discovers that superficial success isn’t enough for true happiness. Both characters evolve by realising that growth isn’t just about the destination—it’s about the journey.
Coaching Takeaway: Coaching is about more than reaching goals—it’s about helping clients discover who they are along the way. Growth happens as much through the process of self-exploration as it does through achieving external success.
Coaching Tip: Can you connect with the deeper motivations behind your goals? What are you learning about yourself as you work towards your ambitions?
5. Resilience in the Face of Adversity
Elphaba and Glinda both face adversity, yet their resilience is what drives them forward. Elphaba, especially, faces betrayal and public scorn, but her unshakable belief in her cause keeps her moving. Glinda, too, learns to stand firm in her beliefs, even when they’re un-popuuuuu-a-lar.
Coaching Takeaway: Challenges are inevitable, but resilience is a skill that can be developed. As a life coach, I can help you reframe adversity as an opportunity for growth and strength.
Coaching Tip: When you face a setback, ask how you can use that experience to build resilience? What can you learn from it that will make you stronger?
Final thoughts
The journeys of Elphaba and Glinda aren’t just fairy tales—they offer timeless lessons on authenticity, belief, collaboration, self-discovery, and resilience. As a life coach, I have the privilege of guiding others on their own journeys of growth, helping them unlock their potential, and empowering them to embrace their challenges with courage.
Like Elphaba and Glinda, we all have the power to transform ourselves and the world around us. The question is, are we ready to embrace the journey?
