The ICF (International Coaching Federation) defines coaching this way:
“Coaching is partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential.”
Coaching is an approach committed to the belief that each person is an “expert” of his or her own world (that is, they live in and know their own world better than anyone else) and that each person has within him or her the capacity to come up with solutions to struggles or problems that arise.
So, what is the role of a coach and what is the role of the client being coached?
The coach engages a client in such a way that the coach helps him or her to solve their own problems. The coach does this using active listening, reflection, observation, strategic questioning, and encouragement to guide a client to solutions. A coach thus does not generally give advice, mentoring, consulting, or therapy to a client.
The client is responsible for bringing the topic/struggle he or she would like to be coached on. The client is also responsible for making decisions and taking actions steps developed as a result of the coaching process and conversation.
Who is the ideal client for coaching?
Ideal clients are those who are 1) mentally stable (not struggling with a disabling mental health condition or addiction) and able to engage the coaching process, 2) motivated, and 3) willing to learn/be challenged
What are the benefits of life coaching?
- You are seen, in a sense, as the expert of your own world.
- You are empowered to come up with your own ideas.
- You’ll gain confidence.
- You will have your mind stretched and be able to see more options.
- You not only own your own ideas but you are more likely to follow through on them since you come up with them!
- You will get clarity and actionable steps.
- You will be reminded that you are far more capable than you realize!
