If you’ve never experienced life coaching before this quick introductory post will show you the ropes.
What is life coaching?
Life coaching is a collaborative conversation between a coach and client that brings about changes and new behaviours. Conversation topics are chosen by you (the client) - and the coach uses enquiry, reflection and choice to support and guide you towards the life you want or the goals you want to achieve.
Coaching sessions are all about you
Every coach has a unique style, but one thing remains consistent: the session is all about you. Your coach will listen deeply, ask probing questions, and encourage you to think critically about your life and choices.
Rather than giving you the answers, your coach is there to help you find your own.
How to prepare for your first session
While you don’t need to prepare extensively, a little reflection before your first session can be very helpful.
Consider jotting down:
Your motivations: Why have you decided to try coaching? What are you hoping to achieve?
Areas of focus: Think about the areas of your life where you feel stuck or unsatisfied.
The biggest tip I can give you is to have an open mind – and be ready to explore new perspectives. Be honest with yourself and your coach.
What to expect during your first session
The first session is generally about ‘setting the stage’. Your coach will typically spend some time getting to know you, and you will experience your coach's style of coaching.
You may have already had an introductory or discovery session with your coach which may have touched on some of the areas in the first coaching session.
Expect the following:
Rapport building:
You’ll discuss why you’re seeking coaching. Whether you have specific goals in mind or just a general feeling that you want to make changes. This is the time to share your thoughts.
Your coach will explain how they work. This is your chance to ask questions and get comfortable.
Exploring your goals:
Your coach will ask questions to help clarify your goals. Your coach will ask what you want to achieve through coaching or which areas of your life you would like to focus on.
Your coach will work with you to help you uncover what’s most important to you.
Discovery and reflection:
You may go through some reflective work. This is designed to give both you and your coach a better understanding of where you are right now and what might be holding you back.
Coaching is about discovery, not perfection and your coach will help you.
Setting expectations:
Your coach will explain how the coaching process will work. This might include information about when the sessions will take place, how to prepare for each session, and what kind of support you’ll receive between sessions.
You’ll also discuss confidentiality and any boundaries that need to be agreed to ensure a safe and productive environment.
Asking your questions:
Gather your questions in readiness for the session. This is the perfect opportunity to find out as much as possible.
By the end of your first coaching session, you may have:
Some clarity about your goals: Even if you started with vague ideas, your coach will have helped you to refine one or more of them into clear, actionable goals.
A sense of direction: You’re likely to have a clearer sense of direction, as well as some initial steps to take towards your goals.
A sense of empowerment: Coaching is designed to empower you by giving you the tools and confidence to create meaningful changes in your life.
What happens after the first session?
After your session, you may be feeling energized, motivated, or even a little overwhelmed. Take some time to process what you discussed with your coach. Your coach may give you "homework" or tasks to work on before your next session. These are designed to keep you moving forward and deepen your self-awareness.
If you can, take a little time to reflect on your coaching session and record your reflections in writing or as a voice note. These notes will be a useful reference point as you continue your coaching journey.
How to know whether coaching is right for you
The best way to know is to try it!
Give some thought to what you want to achieve from coaching. What do you want to change or work on with a coach?
Then choose a coach who is the best fit for you. Most coaches offer free discovery sessions – which are a great opportunity to meet, build initial rapport and discover whether you and the coach are a good fit.
And one final tip, come with an open mind, remove any distractions and try to bring your whole self to your coaching session. Taking these actions will help you to get the best out of your coaching session.
Debbie
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