A question I often ask others is, “what do you already know about coaching?” This gives me an opportunity to educate others and dispel any misconceptions that might exist about coaching. It also ensures potential clients have the right expectation of partnering with a coach. Through these discussions, here are four common misconceptions I hear about coaching:
MYTH #1 - Life coaches can only help you achieve your personal goals. A life coach helps a client take steps towards a particular goal. That goal can be in their personal or professional life. Sometimes that goal overlaps or has a direct impact on both their personal and professional life.
Working as a coach in a corporate environment taught me that work is personal. The obstacles standing in the way of an individual’s career progression are often personal in nature. For example, if you’re lacking self-confidence, you might not apply for the next-level position, ask for the raise you deserve or entertain the idea of moving to a new department within the company.
In general, life coaching will help you become more self-aware and move past the obstacles that are standing in the way of your success (personally or professionally.)
MYTH #2 - I don’t have time for coaching. This is a tough one because we live in a world that glorifies being busy. If I had to guess, you’re already juggling work, raising kids, and managing a two-mile-long to-do list. Believe me, I get it! I believe you make time for things that matter and your dreams matter. One of the things I work on most often with clients is time and energy management. Together, we focus on awareness of where time is being spent and shrink their to-do list by establishing boundaries, saying no, and asking for help.
In addition to learning how to take back control of your time, coaching sessions don’t take much of that time. They can be held virtually over the phone or video conferencing, which eliminates travel time, and most coaches have flexible schedules offering daytime, evening, and some weekend appointments.
You make time for what matters most to you. Once you see the value of coaching, it will be something that you prioritize time for.
MYTH #3 – Coaching is expensive. Coaching is an investment, but it is an investment in yourself and you get what you pay for. Most coaches offer packages at different prices points and many will tailor packages to fit your budget. For example, instead of meeting weekly, you might meet bi-weekly. Many also offer group coaching, accountability coaching, workshops, and/or online courses which give you an opportunity to experience coaching at a lower cost.
If you’re interested in coaching, don’t be afraid to book a free complimentary session (offered by most coaches). It’s the best way to determine what the investment is and see if the coach is the right fit for you.
One more thing to keep in mind… Coaching is an investment in your future. You’re not paying for the weekly sessions - you are paying for the outcomes you achieve working with your coach. Outcomes of working with a coach can look like more life balance and time to spend with your kids. Or more aware of how you react in stressful situations, so you can choose to respond calmly under pressure. Or the ability to make progress on your health and wellness goals, so you have the energy to chase your children or live long enough to meet your grandchildren. Coaching is an investment in outcomes that positively impact your future.
MYTH #4 - A life coach will give me the answers I’m looking for. A coach’s role is not one of a friend, mentor, therapist, or consultant. While a coach can help you find answers, we do this by helping you explore and find them inside yourself.
You are the expert on your life - your thoughts, beliefs, and experiences. Most likely, you already know what you need to do but something is keeping you from taking action. A coach is trained to be curious, listen for these inner blocks, and uncover what’s really holding you back. Then we utilize coaching tools to help you shift your perspective, uncover possibilities and move past those blocks and into action.
Working with a coach can challenge you to intentionally focus your time on what you want out of life and move into action without getting stuck in the how.
As certified life coach, I help women put themselves on and at the top of their to-do lists. I’d love to answer any other questions you have about working with a coach. Feel free to contact me or book a complimentary session and experience coaching for yourself.