What the heck is coaching?

Coaching is one of the world's most misunderstood disciplines.

That's partly because we apply the label "coach" to people in so many different functions. Some of those people manage sports teams, while others teach professionals how to do their jobs. However, only a small part of what those coaches do would be recognizable as what the International Coaching Federation defines as coaching. A small part, but arguably the most important.

That coaching--the coaching that we offer--is a partnership designed to help clients discover and achieve their personal and professional goals. Coaches use deep listening, powerful questioning, and accountability to support clients in discovering their own solutions, rather than providing advice or direction. While there is much overlap with what you might experience with a therapist or mentor, what distinguishes coaching is its emphasis on the client’s strengths and future possibilities rather than past issues or directives. Sure, a good coach will help make clients aware of useful tools or methods that may be new to them, but at center is an understanding that every client brings a unique set of aspirations and values, and no one else can say what success and fulfillment entails for them.

Does that sound squishy? A little woo-woo?

However it sounds, the empirical case for coaching is rock-solid and getting stronger all the time. Borrowing liberally from ancient traditions as well as modern neuroscience, skillful coaching is emerging as one of the most effective approaches to helping people grow and find success and happiness.

Here are some of the reasons it works...

• It fosters self-awareness By providing a safe, guided context to explore your values and desires, coaching can help you move past what others expect you to be and discover who you really are and the life that will align with that.
  

• It focuses on possibilities and potential, not problems and obstacles Contrary to common belief, it isn't necessary to identify and solve for all your weaknesses before you can achieve your goals. It is much more effective to play to your strengths. By learning to recognize and regulate your fear and anxiety triggers, you can unleash your creative potential.
  

• The power of the 1-1 human interaction As the discipline of Interpersonal Neurobiology is discovering every day, there is a power found in the presence of someone who holds you in unconditional positive regard, without judgment, and with belief in your unlimited potential. It can literally cause your brain to physically rewire itself in a way no AI, book, or app can.
  

• You do the work, you get the benefit A coach will walk your path with you, not for you. Being coached is the epitome of experiential learning.
  

Contact us for a free introductory call to see if we're the right folks to support you!