How Does Life Coaching Work?
Coaching is a process that’s completely customized to each individual client’s needs, with direction being solely determined by the goals and aspirations of the client. But what does a “typical” coaching engagement look like?
The Coaching Process
“Goals” sometimes seems like a big word, with grandiose ramifications. But, in its most simple form, it just refers to something one wants to accomplish. In order to progress in life, career, relationships, whatever, some level of accomplishment must happen, and the job of a Coach is to help you move through that journey effectively. By calling these desired accomplishments “goals” makes them more meaningful, and writing them down makes them real. Most people seek out coaching because they are having difficulty accomplishing goals in their lives, or are simply feeling “stuck” in life and need some help breaking through, or need help facing changes such as life transitions. For a married couple doing Marriage Coaching, a goal might be to improve a specific component of their relationship, or it might be a shared financial goal. This forward-looking aspect of the coaching process signifies one of the key differences between coaching and therapy.
The first aspect of Self-Discovery involves clarifying existing goals, where a coach guides the client to unveil their true objectives. For instance, the goal of wanting to lose 10 pounds may stem from a broader goal, like finding a new love interest. The second aspect addresses clients without clear goals or those feeling stuck. Here, Self-Discovery delves into exploring life and ambitions to uncover hidden goals obstructed by limiting beliefs. Self-Discovery leads to solidified goals and reveals potential paths for effective coaching outcomes. The Energy Leadership™ Index assessment plays a crucial role in this stage, offering insights into perceptions, attitudes, and behaviors, especially in stressful situations, to overcome roadblocks and set a course for success.
Accomplishing goals require a first step, often followed by many more, necessitating a Plan of Action with documented objectives, tied to a schedule with milestones and due dates. Through the coaching process, the coach assists the client in fully fleshing out the plan, allowing the client to see the entire process, and providing a roadmap that still allows for necessary detours for new discoveries and ambitions.
Despite well-crafted plans, inaction is a major obstacle to goal achievement. Accountability is crucial for turning plans into action. This can take the form of an "accountability partner" tracking progress or a personal reward system tied to reaching goal milestones. A coach assists in identifying the most effective accountability tactics for individual goals.
Without an effective Measure of Success, achieving a goal like “running faster” remains ambiguous. Specific and measurable goals, such as “running a mile in four minutes within the next six months”, provide clear benchmarks for tracking progress and celebrating success. Each goal needs a relevant and achievable Measure of Success, accompanied by a timeline. A coach can assist in defining the most effective measures to keep you on track.
Celebrate achievements by recognizing the hard work behind Goal Achieved, savoring the earned right to rejoice. This act sparks a desire to relive the feeling in the future. After the celebration fades, it's time to set new goals. Philanthropist Andrew Carnegie said “If you want to be happy, set a goal that commands your thoughts, liberates your energy and inspires your hopes.” Initiating new goals is crucial for ongoing happiness and fulfillment.
Effective coaching requires full commitment from both the coach and the client, with the client at the core of the process. A coach should be entirely Client Focused, devoid of ego, opinion, bias, or judgment, ensuring the focus is on what's best for the client and finding their truest path forward. The objective of each coaching session is for the client to depart with acknowledged accomplishments and plans for future achievements.
Are you ready to discover what coaching can do for you? Contact us to set up your complimentary informational call today!