7 Things No One Tells You About Working With A Coach

“You should consider working with a coach!” I exclaimed after my dear friend and then coworker spent 17 minutes ranting about her unhappiness and disbelief at her current situation.

“I already pay for therapy. How is that different than coaching? Will they tell me I’m capable and help me to figure out my life?” she replied sarcastically.

“Uhm… yes, actually,” I said.

This conversation took place a few years ago, and like many, I felt hesitant when I first encountered coaching as a profession. Many people mistakenly associate life coaching with yoga instructors, mindfulness practitioners, and other fields—which are valid in their own right but distinctly different from coaching. Coaching is a partnership that engages in a thought-provoking and creative process, inspiring the client to maximize their potential.

In this post, you’ll discover 7 things no one is telling you about hiring a coach. Coaching is often misunderstood, and these insights could lead you towards the support you need now or in the future.

#1: No One Is Telling You That EVERYTHING Comes Back To LIFE

You might think, I don’t need help with my life, I just need help with my career… or parenting my toddler while working full time… or this relationship challenge… and so on. But the truth is, we are whole, integrated, complex people with many facets of life. Even when you approach a business coach about starting a non-profit, it is nearly guaranteed that you’ll end up working through personal hurdles before finding success in business.

Coaching impacts your relationships, your mindset, and even how you view the world. When you invest in coaching, you invest in holistic improvement that seeps into every aspect of your life.

#2: No One Is Telling You That Coaches Aren’t Professional Advice-givers

Coaches don’t tell you what to do; they help you discover your own answers. Think of the coach as a container, holding space for you to explore and grow. After all, it’s your life—what you decide, goes!

Coaches serve as partners in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires you to maximize your personal and professional potential. They facilitate your journey and provide insights, but the solutions emerge from within you. This approach also means that you are responsible for taking the necessary action steps along the way.

#3: No One Is Telling You That Coaching is a Skill That Takes Years and Years of Experience to Master

Becoming an effective coach isn’t something that happens overnight. It requires extensive training and years of practice. Accredited training programs and continuous professional development are crucial to truly mastering the art and science of coaching. Be mindful of this along your journey of finding a coach. Be sure to look for someone who has completed a certification program and has more than a few years of experience.

#4: No One is Telling You That the Discipline of Coaching is Completely Client Directed

Coaching is inherently client-centered. Unlike traditional therapy or consulting, the coaching process is driven by your unique needs, goals, and aspirations. Coaches guide the conversation based on your agenda, ensuring that your personal and professional growth is aligned with your values and desires.

#5: No One is Telling You that Professional Coaching Uses Positive Psychology

Coaching is inherently based on science. Professional coaching often incorporates principles of positive psychology, focusing on strengths, values, and the achievement of your optimal self. It’s about building on what works and creating strategies for success and well-being. This approach helps foster resilience, self-awareness, and a positive outlook on life.

#6: No One Is Telling You that Coaching has Governance and Standards

The field of coaching is becoming more regulated, with accredited programs setting high standards for certification and ethical practice. By choosing a coach certified through an accredited program, you ensure you’re working with someone who adheres to industry standards and ethical guidelines, providing a trustworthy and effective coaching experience.

#7: No One Is Telling You that You Might Have Access to Coaching Through Your Current Organization

Many companies are recognizing the value of coaching and are starting to offer it as part of their employee development programs. Check with your HR department to see if coaching services are available to you. Investing in coaching can dramatically enhance your career trajectory and personal growth.

Conclusion

Coaching is a transformative and client-driven process that requires skill, ethical practice, and a focus on positive growth. Understanding these 7 truths can help you make informed decisions about engaging with a coach and leveraging this valuable resource to its fullest potential.

Ready to take the next step? Book a discovery call today to explore how coaching can help you achieve your goals. If you have any questions or need more information, feel free to ask—I’m here to help you succeed!