Coaching - what is it?

What is coaching?

One of the questions most asked of me, is 'What exactly is coaching?'
I'll be honest - until I'd trained as a coach, I wasn't sure myself. And I also didn't know if it worked.
There are still many misunderstandings about coaching - so here goes- some myth busting.

Is coaching about being told what to do?
No. Very much no! One of the first things I learned during my training was never to tell a client what to do.

So what is it? What am I seeing a coach for?
Coaches are trained to listen. And also ask questions. Some questions may be harder to answer. That's part of the plan. To make you think deeply and challenge any thoughts that hold you back.

Why can't I talk to my friends or family?
You can, of course. But sometimes, as we all acknowledge, we shy away from saying what we think.
We're afraid of offending, being too blunt, so we hedge our responses.
But more importantly, your friends or family may tell you what to do. And you end up with a lot of conflicting 'advice'.

There's also the issue of accountability. As your coach, I'll ask you to come up with some goals, that you've chosen.
Think on that; goals you've chosen. So you should be happy to work on them.
If, when we talk again, you've made no headway, I'll ask why not. That's the accountability factor.
It'll tell you (and me) a lot about your commitment and how much you want that goal you set yourself.
If something's got in the way- a heavy week at work- fine. But if the lack of progress means you're not wanting that goal -  not really wanting it- you're on your way to refining it.

How long will I need coaching.
Coaching is one step at a time. Do you like the image I chose to accompany this blog?
It's small steps. You might want to go slowly, or speed up.
My Clarity and Vision Package aims to get you somewhere within 6 weeks.
You may want to build on this or you could be well on your way so you don't need me.
That's what I want- not to be needed. That's my role done and you're on your way to fulfilment.

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