You hear a lot about coaching. Social media is filled with motivational quotes and videos. You hear about it at work... It interests you how you can transform your life and help you in your own transformation. What should you expect from it?
Firstly, we need to understand what kind of process coaching really is.
Coaching is a developmental process that supports a client (or coachee) in achieving a specific personal or professional goal through guidance or training.
What are the stages of the coaching process?
1. Define the area of your life where you would like to see better results
We all want to be and do better in life. The progression is what we strive for. Before you throw yourself into that - be honest with yourself. Sit down and think about what you want to improve. If you identify more than one area to change - DON’T PANIC! You can work on a few goals and achieve amazing results however, the best for you is to focus on one at the time.
2. If you decide to work with a coach - look for one.
The internet is full of information and provides you with a lot of choices when you just look online. Most coaches focus on a specific niche and work with defined clientele. Do your research. Define a few candidates. Check their blogs, social media, offer and reviews. Be mindful of the prices as well. The good news is that you will always be able to find someone within your price range.
3. Talk to your future coach
See how they are like when you talk to them. Is that the person that you would like to work with? If yes, make sure you check their qualifications and sign the contract so you both know what are the agreed goals for the process.
4. Learn and follow the process + enjoy your journey
The coaching process usually takes some time. Typically it takes a few months to achieve visible results. Each session typically takes between 45 to 90 minutes. They are usually scheduled to take place in some time intervals to allow you to take an action agreed during the session (you receive to-do list) and also adjust emotionally. You will undergo some internal processes because while facing the change you need to get out of your comfort zone. During the subsequent session, you will discuss with your coach how is your progress. Note that you are allowed to tweak the desired outcome. You might feel that you would like to add or change your goal slightly. The coaching process is very dynamic so the strategy can change along the way.
The biggest benefits of coaching are:
Improvement in self-awareness
A boost in self-esteem
Understanding your goal and why you want to do it
A strategy that is broken down to step by step tasks
Accountability
Supporting mindset
Reaching for goals with more ease
Many coaches offer packages which are structured programs targeting defined improvement areas. This type of offer often gives you the opportunity to meet new people as many programs include access to a mastermind group or online community of people who have very same aspirations as you do.
Don’t wait for the change to happen. Take your future to your hands and make it happen… with the help of a coach!