Understanding Life Coaching

What is Life Coaching and what it's not.

The definition from Websters is: a person who counsels and encourages clients on matters having to do with careers or personal challenges.

Its about navigation. Guiding people through challenges or changes in their present day life.

Coach

We all know the word 'coach'. Its used in sports all the time. The coach encourages, helps the player(s) make the next moves, motivates and guides. Often coaches in the professional field also advise and tell their players what to do. Thats where Life Coaches differ. Our job is to get you to come to the ideas, own them and move with them. Our job is to guide you. Navigate you through the challenges along the way.

Why come to a Life Coach?

Maybe you have a problem you just can't seem to solve. We often have clients that just don't know where to start, how to move out of an area of frustration or get started on a risky project or relationship. Others are overwhelmed or confused about a certain issue.

A Life Coach can help people move forward and set goals. Accountability is often key in life. Some life coaches are for personal changes, others are more for business goals. Sometimes, while talking, these two intertwine.

Coaching is about listening. About taking nuggets from what people say, and guiding them to the decision thats right for them. Its about helping them organize their thoughts without giving advice.

What its not?

It's not therapy. Sometimes there are more deep seated issues which relate back to the past. Or you could have severe depression, anxiety or a disorder. Those are for the therapist. As Life Coaches we are trained to see that and if we do, we refer you on to a therapist.

What do I do at a typical session?

I meet with my clients usually online through a video feed. Here you will sit and talk. This is your time (usually an hour). I will ask trained questions to guide you to the the thing that is bothering you, what brought you to this place, what is your goal to feel success and steps to get there.

I also use prayer, Godly discernment and inner healing practices. If you are not a Christian, don't worry, thats ok! I won't preach at you!

Finally, once an action plan has been decided, there is homework. Not as hard as you think! You do the work, bit by bit, and report back the following session.

It has been proven that 4-12weeks is the best amount of time for the majority of clients to work through particular goals/action plans. Some need shorter, others longer.

Is Life Coaching what I need?

Best thing is to have a quick chat with a reputable Life Coach and ask some quick questions. To be honest, it never hurts to give it a go.

If you are thinking about it, the answer is probably YES!