What is Life Coaching?
Having made the decision to pursue a career in life coaching, I am reminded of those years when I was a manager in a biorepository. I would tell people my role and they would just smile and look confused. For those of you feeling that way about coaching, I’m hoping this article will help clarify what it is and clear up some common misconceptions!
At its core, life coaching is a professional partnership where a coach helps individuals clarify their goals, overcome obstacles, and create actionable plans to achieve personal and/or professional growth. Using guided conversations and reflective questioning, a life coach empowers clients to tap into their potential, make informed decisions, and live more intentionally.
What Life Coaching Is:
1. Life Coaching Is About Forward Movement
Life coaching focuses on the future and how to move forward, rather than dwelling on the past. Through asking questions and active listening, a coach can help an individual identify where they want to be in the future and how they can begin taking action to get there.
2. Life Coaching Is Goal-Oriented
Life coaching focuses on setting clear, actionable goals and creating a plan to achieve them. Coaching also provides accountability. A coach encourages clients to stay committed to their goals, offering encouragement and helping them stay on track.
3. Life Coaching Is Personalized
Coaching sessions are not a “one size fits all.” A good coach listens deeply and seeks to understand the client's perspective and then tailors each session appropriately. In order to be effective, a coach must keep in mind that everyone has unique needs, challenges, and aspirations and adjust accordingly.
4. Life Coaching Is Empowering
Coaching is empowering because it encourages individuals to take ownership of their own growth and decisions. Instead of providing answers, a coach asks insightful questions that help clients tap into their inner resources, build self-awareness, and uncover their strengths. This process fosters a sense of autonomy and confidence as clients realize that they have the ability to navigate challenges and create the life they want.
5. Life Coaching Is about Relationship
At the heart of coaching is the relationship between the coach and the client. This relationship is built on trust, respect, and open communication, creating a safe and supportive space for personal growth. It is through this connection that clients feel empowered to push their limits, reflect on their journey, and take meaningful steps toward their goals.
A Few Things Coaching Is Not:
1. Life Coaching Is Not Therapy
Life coaching is not about diagnosing or treating mental health issues. Life coaches are not mental health professionals. Instead, coaching is for individuals who are generally emotionally healthy and are seeking support in personal development, goal achievement, or overcoming everyday challenges, rather than wanting to resolve deeper psychological or emotional issues.
2. Life Coaching Is Not Giving Advice
Life coaches don’t tell you what to do. Instead, they ask insightful questions to help you discover your own solutions and make decisions that align with your goals and values. A coach won’t tell you which career path to take, but they’ll guide you to reflect on your passions and strengths so you can decide for yourself.
In summary, life coaching is a collaborative process where a coach helps clients set and achieve personal or professional goals: focusing on growth, action, and future success. It empowers individuals by providing guidance, accountability, and tools for self-discovery, without giving direct advice.
If you want to learn more about this topic or talk with me about any of the ideas above, please reach out! I’d love to chat!
