Coaching – Magic, Myth, or Momentum?

It’s interesting – no top athlete or team would ever imagine reaching their maximum performance without a coach. In fact, many athletes have multiple coaches for different areas. Yet, in the business world and in our personal lives, the word “coach” often carries a negative connotation. Perhaps it’s because anyone offering any sort of support calls themselves a coach, or maybe it’s due to bad experiences people have had. Do you think this is the case? Have you ever had a coaching experience that felt off? What do you expect from a coach?

When Is Coaching Useful?

If you’re looking for an expert to solve a very specific problem, then a coach may not be the right fit – go find a consultant instead. If you’re seeking someone to simply share their experiences or help you figure out your path, then mentorship might be the better option. If you’re facing a situation that’s affecting your daily life and has been for some time, therapy could be the direction you need.

However, in most other situations, coaching can be incredibly valuable. The International Coaching Federation (ICF) describes coaching as “partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential.”

In simpler terms, coaching helps you resolve struggles you’ve been dealing with by guiding you toward your own answers. Does it sound like magic? It might feel like it when you overcome a long-standing issue – but it’s not magic. It’s rooted in the principles of positive psychology and backed by research.

And for some, coaching can also feel like a myth – something too abstract or fluffy to believe in. In reality, the true power of coaching lies in its ability to create momentum. That sense of forward movement, clarity, and transformation that comes with uncovering your own path and taking action. It’s that momentum that leads to lasting change.

How Does Coaching Work?

Coaching follows a defined process. The first step is identifying the goal, and from there, the coach and client co-create the coaching relationship. The coach’s role is to be present, listen actively, and evoke awareness.

What’s truly special about coaching is the space it provides – you get to be heard, seen, and supported as you explore your thoughts. The coach is there to guide you through the process, challenge you when necessary, and offer empathy. Importantly, coaching is focused on behavior, not emotions. While emotions may come up, changing behavior is the ultimate goal, and this often shifts emotions in a positive direction.

What’s the Difference Between Various Types of Coaches?

The basics of coaching are the same across all areas. A certified coach is trained to help in any aspect of life, professional as well personal. However, many coaches specialize in certain fields, such as career, leadership, or health coaching. While some clients feel reassured if their coach has experience in their area of focus, it’s important to remember that a coach isn’t there to give you answers – they’re there to help you discover your own.

How Do I Find the Right Coach?

A quick search for “coach” will give you plenty of results, but how do you know who’s the right fit for you? Think about what area you want to be coached in. Once you’ve narrowed down your search, check the coach’s training and certifications. The International Coaching Federation (ICF) is the gold standard for coaching certifications, but there are other reputable organizations too.

ICF-credentialed coaches are professionals who have met strict education and experience requirements, and they adhere to high ethical standards. I’m obviously biased, but I highly recommend looking for an ICF-certified coach. If you want help finding a coach or have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out! I have a network of excellent coaches that I can recommend and ICF offer a “Credentialed Coach Finder”.

What’s Your Experience with Coaching?

Have you ever worked with a coach? What worked for you? Or what would you look for in a coach if you haven’t yet tried coaching? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments, or feel free to send me a message on LinkedIn directly.

Learn & Lead the Way,
Frida