Why Coaching?
The International Coaching Federation (ICF), the “gold standard” in the coaching industry, defines coaching as “partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential.” But what does that mean?
As individuals, we all have goals, and we all go through life challenges and changes big and small. Sometimes, we are clear on our long-term vision, but less clear about the steps to get there. Sometimes we feel overwhelmed with the busy-ness of life, or with trying to make a big decision. And sometimes, we just feel like “something’s missing.” We may have a hard time pinpointing what’s causing us to feel overwhelmed or dissatisfied, where we want to go next, how to get there, and what’s impeding our progress. Coaching helps people get clarity on the gap between the life they’re living and the life they truly want; the challenges getting in their way; and the steps to overcome those challenges to start living their life in alignment with who they feel called to be.
As coaches, we are trained to listen deeply and ask powerful questions to help clients understand their true needs and desires. We are trained to support each client in recognizing the possibilities in their life, planning strategically toward their goals, and taking action toward those goals. Coaching is focused on engagement in the present and looking forward to create a better future. Coaches make referrals to therapists as needed, and working with a coach and therapist simultaneously can be impactful.
A formally trained professional coach offers support, encouragement, perspective, strategies and accountability to assist each client in achieving their desired results. The coach provides the coaching, and client will do the work.
So ... let's get to work!
As individuals, we all have goals, and we all go through life challenges and changes big and small. Sometimes, we are clear on our long-term vision, but less clear about the steps to get there. Sometimes we feel overwhelmed with the busy-ness of life, or with trying to make a big decision. And sometimes, we just feel like “something’s missing.” We may have a hard time pinpointing what’s causing us to feel overwhelmed or dissatisfied, where we want to go next, how to get there, and what’s impeding our progress. Coaching helps people get clarity on the gap between the life they’re living and the life they truly want; the challenges getting in their way; and the steps to overcome those challenges to start living their life in alignment with who they feel called to be.
As coaches, we are trained to listen deeply and ask powerful questions to help clients understand their true needs and desires. We are trained to support each client in recognizing the possibilities in their life, planning strategically toward their goals, and taking action toward those goals. Coaching is focused on engagement in the present and looking forward to create a better future. Coaches make referrals to therapists as needed, and working with a coach and therapist simultaneously can be impactful.
A formally trained professional coach offers support, encouragement, perspective, strategies and accountability to assist each client in achieving their desired results. The coach provides the coaching, and client will do the work.
So ... let's get to work!