Let’s address a common question – do you need a coach? The simple response to the question is NO, you do not NEED a coach. Any more than you need you need new designer bag, or other luxury items. I know, you’re probably confused by my response, especially since I AM a Certified Career Coach. Telling you no is counterproductive and probably not the best business model for me. But, because supporting the growth and development of peoples, having a genuine desire to see people win and fulfill their purpose, ensuring you can move forward with understanding is important to me.
The reason I say no you don’t need a coach is because coaching isn’t a necessity for working. It is quite possible that you are already actively employed, found your job successfully on your own and did it all without hiring a coach. It’s also fair to say, that unlike buying a designer bag or pair of shoes, coaching is a luxury that not only don’t you understand it, you’re not sure you would ever want it. I know that until you understand the value of a thing, it will continue to have no value to you. So that’s how I’d like to use this weeks post. To convey the value of coaching.
So, what is a Coach? – A coach is person who provides guidance and support in a specialized area. They possess some skill or depth of experience in that area and use it to develop and support someone trying to reach specific goals or attain a specific result. Coaches cover a range of genres and disciplines, so the type of coaching will be determined the development need. How can you benefit from coaching? – The benefits of coaching are determined by the development need. Think about someone struggling to achieve their fitness goals. They can certainly continue trying the same approach they have always tried, cardio, different fad diets, cutting out sugars and carbs etc. All those things are great, and for some people they do bring some level of success. But for others, several variations of diet and exercise does nothing more but move the scale 5 to 10 pounds max.
Now introduce a fitness or nutritional coach. They will bring a level of expertise and knowledge to the equation that the client doesn’t possess on their own. The coach will look at a person’s metabolic make-up, BMI, stress levels, family history and other factors to help the client see that other factors may be missing from their routine that could help their success. The inclusion of those other factors, coupled with the creation of specific goals and a targeted approach to overall health, can change 5 to 10 pounds to 20 to 30. The benefit is helping the client move beyond being stuck. The value of coaching is a healthier lifestyle, a slimmer waist and new-found sense of self.
When would it make sense to consider a coach? - Imagine driving a car through a gravel parking lot. Your car is fine, no mechanical or tire issues that would make the car stop running. However, what you don’t see is the mud hole hiding under the gravel. You drive over it with your front tires, without problem, but your rear driver-side wheel casually slips in the hole. What was a normal maneuver in your car, is now a major interruption in your day. You find yourself stuck in the mud.
Calling a coach makes sense when you find yourself at an impasse. When what you’ve normally done, is no longer working and no longer producing results. Calling a coach also makes sense when your normal routine is just that, a routine. It doesn’t stretch you or move you further than the point you have already reached. You hit a plateau; you’ve squeezed the last drop of juice out of that lemon. No more lemonade.
Engaging the help of a coach helps to reveal vulnerable aspects of your current routine and provides you with a strategy to not only avoid future pitfalls, but establish new, attainable goals by helping you to identify a new set of tools to move forward. A coach helps to bring clarity to your current routine, highlights those areas in need of development and provides you with tools to continue progressing. How do I know I’ve chosen the right coach for me? How do you know you’ll like a car, or if a pair of shoes are too tight? Test drive!! Most coaches will offer a complimentary session or consultation. If that’s an option, take it. It’s good for you and the coach to take a moment to get to know each other. You both will want to understand the expectations of the relationship and ensure there is a clear understanding of your needs and the expected outcome. While your coach is not your therapist, (no more than your plumber or mechanic is might I add), it is still in your best interest to be open to sharing what you believe your blockers are. Coaching sessions are about solutions and results. Those are only attained when there is first a clear problem to solve.
Is it affordable? Pricing can vary. Some coaches offer hourly sessions, packages, or both. These options will be discussed once there is a commitment to working together. If payment plans are available, those options will be discussed as well.
Coaching is a luxury. And while you don’t need a coach to find a job, coaching can support you in discovering what is next and help to get you un-stuck. Coaching can help you develop a plan to lose the weight, grow in your relationship, start a business, or find fulfillment. Coaching helps you find the best way for you to turn the dream into a reality.
If you are considering working with a coach, or just have more questions about the process, I am here to help. Send me an email for more information.
Remember, these are absolutely my thoughts…ratedpg.