What is coaching?

Coaching (or life coaching) is a regular, structured and confidential partnership between the client and the coach. Its sole focus is the needs and goals of the client, and how the client can fulfil those needs and reach those goals.

Coaching is very forward looking. We discuss and identify a clear goal to aim for at the end of the coaching programme, and each session will identify steps on the journey to reach that goal. These steps and goals are always subject to review, as our ideas often change once they are aired and explored.

Although the main thrust of coaching is towards the future, good coaches recognise that often the client has psychological blocks that prevent them from reaching their goals. An important part of the work, therefore, is addressing these blocks to progress and success. We have to be realistic as well as aspirational!

My philosophy of coaching

I believe that everyone has the potential to be far more successful than they are at present. Not only this – everyone has the answers to their questions deep within them.

Coaching is not a process of forcing the coach’s ideas onto the client, or of giving bucketfuls of advice. It is much more a process of facilitating the client coming to their own ideas, reaching their own conclusions and initiating their own purposeful action.

Coaching is so powerful because it harnesses the desires and potential of the client with the experience, skills and one-to-one support of the coach. Together we bring vast amounts of creative energy to your problems and goals, and put you on the path of greater success and fulfilment.

Get the most out of your coaching

Here are some tips to help you get the most benefit from your coaching sessions:

• Believe in your goals. Unless you are committed to each part of the process, you will not make changes in your life or practice. A good coach will ensure that the steps and goals that you decide on together are realistic and what you truly desire.

• Work hard. A coach is not a slave driver, but he or she will remind you that all change requires input. This work is both practical and psychological: you should be prepared to put any action plan into effect in between sessions, and to be open to self-enquiry and self-development.

• Enjoy yourself. Not only enjoy the sessions, as they are focused entirely on you and your success, but also feel good about the fact that you are taking steps to improve and enrich your life. You deserve it!

 
What next?