One of the questions I ask new or potential clients is “what do you already know about coaching?” because this gives me an opportunity to educate and dispel any misconceptions that might exist. (It also ensures that the client has the right expectations of partnering with a coach.) Even though the coaching industry has grown significantly, many people don’t understand the purpose or benefit of working with a life coach. So let’s start with a definition I found via a Google search that (I believe) describes life coaching: “A life coach helps clients tap into their full potential and define/achieve their goals for who they want to be and what they want to do.” I like this definition because it focuses on what the client wants for her own life and pushing her to reach her full potential.
Life coaches guide clients through the process of making life changes by helping them evaluate the steps they must take to reach a particular goal, then help them decide how - and whether - to take those steps. A coach acts as a motivator, strategist and accountability partner. We don’t don't solve problems from your past - instead we focus on helping you move forward with new ways of acting and thinking that will help you reach your goals.
Through discussions with prospective clients, here are 4 common misconceptions about coaching I’ve come across.
MYTH #1 - Life coaches can only help you achieve your personal goals. Just as the definition above described, a life coach helps a client take steps towards a particular goal. That goal can be in their personal or professional life and oftentimes their personal goals relate back to their professional goals or will have a direct impact on their professional performance.
Working as a coach in a corporate environment taught me that work is personal. The obstacles standing in the way of a individual’s career progression are often personal in nature. For example, if you’re lacking self-confidence, you might not apply for the next level position, ask for the raise you deserve or entertain the idea of moving to a new department within the company. In general, life coaching will help you become more self-aware and move past the obstacles that are standing in the way of your success (personally or professionally.)
MYTH #2 - I don’t have time for coaching. This is a tough one because we live in a world that glorifies being busy. If I had to guess, you’re already juggling work, raising kids and managing a two mile long to-do list. Believe me I get it! I believe you make time for things that matter and you matter! Your dreams matter! One of the things I work on most often with clients is time and energy management. I help them recognize how they are spending their time and decide how they would ideally like to spend it.
In addition to time management, coaching sessions can be held virtually over the phone or video conferencing, which eliminates travel time. And most coaches have flexible schedules, offering daytime, evening and some weekend appointments. Although weekly coaching sessions can be incredibly effective for maintaining momentum and energy through change, bi-weekly sessions can still be effective.
You make time for what matters most to you. Once you see the value of coaching, it will be something that you prioritize time for.
MYTH #3 – Coaching is expensive. Coaching can be an investment, but it is an investment in yourself. There are a variety of coaches offering packages at different prices points. [Tip: True coaching is done by a certified professional and in a very unique way. Look for a coach who has completed an ICF accredited coach training program.] Most coaches will tailor packages to fit your budget - instead of meeting weekly, you might meet bi-weekly. Many also offer other opportunities to experience coaching at a lower cost, like group coaching, accountability coaching, workshops and/or online courses. If you’re interested in coaching, don’t be afraid to ask for a package pricing and/or utilize the free complimentary session that most coaches offer. This is the best way to determine what type of investment you’re looking at.
It’s important to look at coaching as an investment in your future. The cost of coaching really depends on your perspective of the value of your return on investment. Consider this value not just from a monetary perspective. For example: What if working with a coach resulted in better life balance which gave you more available time to spend with your kids? What if coaching helped create awareness of how you react to stressful situations and improved your ability to respond under pressure? How would this impact your overall health and wellness and what value would you put on improved well-being?
MYTH #4 - A life coach will give me the answers I’m looking for. A coach’s role is not one of a friend, mentor, therapist or consultant. While a coach can help you find the answers you’re looking for, we do this by helping you look for them inside yourself. You have the answers inside you, a coach’s job is to ask empowering questions and bring those answers to the surface. You are the expert on your life; your thoughts, beliefs and experiences. Oftentimes, a client knows what she needs to do but something keeps her from taking action. A coach is trained to be curious, listen for these inner blocks and uncover the thoughts and beliefs that are holding you back. Once identified, they can utilize coaching tools to help you shift your perspective, uncover possibility and move past the obstacles and into action.
Working with a coach can challenge you to intentionally focus your time on what you want out of life and move into action without getting stuck in the how. As certified life coach, I work with women to help them make important changes in their life. Whether it be growing their career or navigating challenges in personal life, I help clients turn their dreams into attainable goals. If you’re interested in learning more about working with a life coach or have questions about coaching packages, send me a message or schedule a Free Discovery Session.
- Crystalynn
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