A coaching relationship is first and foremost a place to be heard. It is a client-centered approach where you set your own agenda and pace. Coaches use evaluation tools to establish the areas clients would like to focus their work and gain clarity on what has been holding them back from achieving their goals and aspirations.
Coaching is not therapy,
Karen Millen Beaded Dress Black, which often centers on resolving issues from the past. While coaching may use past incidents to inform about current challenges, most sessions focus on moving efficiently from the present to toward successfully accomplishing future goals.
World class athletes and top professional sports teams understand the value of coaching. They bring new tools, resources, a greater vision and a high level of accountability. As a former professional athlete and world level competitor, whenever I wanted to achieve results at levels higher than I thought possible and at a faster pace than I could imagine, I hired a coach. I find the coaching relationship to be powerful, meaningful and inspiring.
Coaches do not offer advice. They are not mentors, nor do they act as consultants. Brainstorming, goal setting, action plans and accountability are some of the highly effective approaches coaching employs.
When choosing a coach, one of the most important considerations is how comfortable you feel with them. You need to trust they will provide a non-judgmental, confidential environment so you can openly share your concerns, fears, goals and dreams. Here are some things to consider when hiring a coach:
1. Are they certified? Currently there are no licensing requirements for coaches so the harsh reality is anyone can hang out a shingle and call themselves a life coach. Coaches who have gone through vetted training programs are certified by the International Coach Federation (ICF). There are a select number of training programs with stringent enough training programs in place that their students are automatically certified by ICF upon graduation. iPEC (ipeccoaching.com) is one such program and graduates carry the CPC (Certified Professional Coach) designation after their name. Be sure to ask your coach what kind of background and training they have completed.
2. Do they listen? Once they have provided you with basic information, pay attention to see if they are listening to you. Have they heard your reasons for wanting a coach? Are they clear about your goals? Do they take your concerns into consideration?
3. Are you given the space to choose coaching? A good coach will not pressure you into buying their services or to buy packages beyond what you can afford. They will help you understand how coaching can support you in achieving your goals. Everyone needs to make a living so coaches do charge for their services but successful coaches do not need to resort to high pressure sales techniques.
4. Do they stand behind their product? Many coaches who believe in their services have no problem offering a money back guarantee. Ask up front what their policy is on this.
5. Research several options. You are about to choose the person who is going to help you live to your highest potential. Interview two or three different coaches and then see and feel who may be the best fit for you.
It is an honor for me to work with clients and watch them grow into their dreams. In my personal life, as a coaching client, I see each day and week how the accountability and inspiration of a coach translates into breakthroughs and successes for me. If you are ready to take your good life and make it extraordinary, coaching is a modality that can help you make it happen.
Choosing Life Coaching, Choosing A Coach
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