What is Coaching?
Coaching – it seems like this term is used everywhere in our culture today. Executive coaching, business coaching, leadership coaching, career coaching, life coaching, relationship coaching, and the list goes on. So, what exactly is coaching and could it be helpful for you? Coaching is essentially a method of growth where someone (a coach) with specific training, comes along side you to help you explore your life, work and/or relationships. They then can help you define and specify what you want in these areas and help you with the process of moving forward to achieve your desired outcome.
An easy way to clarify is by this example. Consider an athlete at the college level. Their coach, who can have an incredible impact on – on AND off the court – comes along side the athlete, challenges them, holds them accountable and encourages them to go further than they have before. You see, the athlete already knows how to play their sport. What they need is someone who can help them gain new perspective on how to play the game, and how to work with others in it. The coach certainly can not get out on the court and play for the athlete. They are solely responsible for that. The coach simply provides perspective, and helps the athlete target specific goals so they can become the best athlete possible.
Everyone can benefit from this type of relationship. We are better when we are able to gain outside perspective to focus our goals, make them tangible and have encouragement to get there.
What is the difference between counseling and coaching?
Counseling and coaching are different practices. The differences are most easily explained this way. Counseling is needed when something is keeping you from moving towards your full potential. So, think of being in the negative and bringing you back to equilibrium. Coaching takes you from a neutral “doing alright” place and moves you forward to a higher, more productive place. Counseling works off of a specific diagnosis to bring about relief of symptoms. Coaching works off of a specific goal and gives you opportunity to find a way to a new achievement or higher functioning level.
What does coaching look like?
A Coaching session lasts for 60 minutes. We will meet either by phone or video conferencing. By the end of our time, you will have an action plan of what your next steps are. I will send you a follow-up email recapping our conversation and restating these action steps. After this, at a time you and I decide on, I’ll follow up with you by phone for a quick check-in on how you are progressing. Coaching can last one session or multiple sessions depending on your goals and specific needs.
How do I know whether counseling or coaching is for me?
Let’s figure that out together. I would be glad to schedule a 15 minute free consultation with you so we can decide together whether counseling or coaching is right for you. You can contact me to set that up.