WHAT TO EXPECT FROM COACHING?

In a nutshell

Coaching should support you in achieving your goal by helping you to uncover blind spots in your self-perception and to jointly identify solutions for problems that stand in the way of achieving your goal.

It does not matter what the goal of the coached person is, because the method of a good coach is always the same: to identify your thought patterns through the technique of active listening, to make you aware of them and to ask questions that help you to generate a greater insight.

IF YOU LIKE THE DETAILS

In the initial consultation I often spend time explaining what coaching is and what one can expect from me as a coach. If you haven't experienced coaching before, the image of a sports coach might come to mind – someone responsible for individual or team success, designing training plans to lead to victory. However, life and executive coaching which (in my personal opinion) is mainly mindset coaching is different.

In this approach, the coach doesn't define the path; it's the individuals being coached who take the lead. Imagine it as embarking on a high-altitude mountaineering adventure. Each person seeking coaching is like a climber aiming to conquer an 8000-meter peak. Just as climbers rely on experienced guides, coaching provides support. The peaks in the corporate coaching context are often career transitions, work-life balance, salary growth, or job advancement.

In this scenario, the coach acts as a mountain guide, offering insights and guidance. They don't carry the climbers to the summit but assist in identifying obstacles, dangers, and potential shortcuts. Climbing the mountain is entirely the responsibility of the climber, including the decision to proceed, pause, or even retreat.

It's essential to distinguish coaching from psychotherapy. Returning to the mountain climbing analogy, imagine this: If I aim to climb a mountain, I must be physically and mentally prepared for the challenge. Similarly, if I have suffered physical injuries or have a severe heart condition, I consult a doctor before attempting such a feat. Likewise, if I am not in a mentally strong state – dealing with depression, burnout, or significant personal hardships – it is advisable to seek psychotherapy instead of coaching. Coaching focuses on action and progress, requiring strength, self-motivation, and self-confidence, which can be lacking during difficult times.

While coaching can briefly touch upon personal circumstances, its primary focus remains on moving forward and taking positive steps toward desired outcomes.