What is coaching? Coaching is a kind of partnership that can help you transform your life but it will always be led by YOU. Working with a coach can do allow you to see road blocks that are limiting your potential, identify areas that you want to grow towards, and develop goals that build towards that end. There is no formula or prescription that will work for every client but there are core foundations and principles that coaches adhere to in order to support clients on their path.
What will my coach do for me? Coaches create and hold a safe space for you to explore the work of your life. Your coach may ask you questions to help you consider different viewpoints, hold you accountable the goals that you create, encourage you to stretch in creative ways, and occassionally challenge assumptions or beliefs that you may hold. Your coach may also suggest learning exercises, books or videos that might support your goals. Your coach will hold your dreams confidentially while you explore your potential and will not disclose any information relating to you that is not explicitly approved by you.
Why won't my coach just tell me what to do? The core of coaching is the belief that you are whole, capable and creative. YOU are the person who needs to direct your life and a coach is a partner you have engaged to support those efforts.
How can I get the most out of my investment? The best way to get the most out of coaching is to dedicate space, time and energy to your growth. Before each session, consider what you want to focus on and how you want to use the time. After each session, review the learning and takeaways from the time. Most importantly, schedule time between sessions to focus on your goals. Good luck is often the result of discipline combined with passion.
How long will it take? Why can't I just have one session? How often do sessions happen? The reality of human connection means it takes a little bit for a partnership to bear fruit. Clients need to feel comfortable enough to trust the coach and coaches need a little time to understand how best to support the client's goals. While clients will see benefits from just a few sessions, most need at least six sessions to unlock the potential of the coaching partnership. Returning clients who already have a relationship with the coach may be able to experience progress with shorter bursts if they are focused on a targeted objective. Sessions happen once or twice a month according to a client's needs.
Do I have to know it all before I start working with a coach? The things that keep us stuck often start from a place of perfectionism. It is not necessary to have all the answers or the direction for where you're trying to move. What IS important is that you are aware that you have a desire to grow and change and you are willing to put in the effort.
I don't think I can afford coaching but I desperately need it. Do you offer scholarships? I do sometimes offer free or reduced engagements to people who genuinely cannot afford my full rates. Reach out to me through the contact page to see if I have any current openings if you think you qualify.
When is coaching not the answer? People who are attracted to coaching tend to be very driven and successful. Occassionally, road blocks show up that are too deeply rooted to move past without specialized help. In those cases, your coach may recommend another professional to help you revisit sensitive patterns or beliefs that are prohibiting the life you want from being possible.