3 Lessons from My Coaching Journey
Reaching a milestone often invites reflection. As I mark my 50th coaching session, I find myself looking back at the incredible individuals I've had the privilege to partner with and the profound lessons these interactions have taught me—not just about coaching, but about human potential and connection. The co-active coaching model serves as my foundation, and these 50 sessions have deepened my appreciation for its core tenets.
While every client and every session is unique, three powerful themes have emerged, shaping my practice and reinforcing my belief in the transformative power of coaching.
1. The Power of Presence: Beyond Just Being There
We live in a world buzzing with distractions. It’s easy to be physically present but mentally miles away. Early on, I realized that one of the most vital gifts I can offer a client is my undivided attention. But it's more than just putting my phone on silent. True presence is about bringing my whole self to the session – my curiosity, my heart, and my full focus.
This means cultivating deep empathy, striving to step into my client's world, and seeing things from their perspective without my own filters. When someone feels truly seen and heard, it creates a space of trust where they can explore their deepest desires, fears, and dreams. It’s in this space that clients can begin to uncover hidden truths and embrace their strengths. Being present isn't a passive act; it's an active engagement that says, "You matter, and I am here with you."
2. Listening Between the Lines: The Emergence of Intuition
Coaching involves a lot of listening, but I've learned that the most potent insights often come from what isn't said directly. It's about tuning into the pauses, the shifts in energy, the recurring themes, and the underlying emotions. This is where intuition comes into play.
In the co-active model, we trust that clients have their own answers. My role isn't to provide those answers but to help them surface. By listening deeply and allowing my intuition to guide my curiosity, I can ask questions that cut through the noise – those "powerful questions" that spark introspection and clarity. Sometimes, a gut feeling or a sudden image guides me to ask something unexpected, leading the client to a breakthrough moment. It’s about trusting the process and the subtle cues, allowing the client’s inner wisdom to emerge.
3. Letting Go of Ego: The Art of Non-Judgment
Perhaps one of the most crucial lessons has been the continuous practice of setting my own ego aside. As a coach, it's tempting to want to fix, advise, or impress. But coaching isn't about me having the answers; it's about empowering the client to find theirs. This requires a commitment to being non-judgmental.
Everyone carries their own "inner saboteurs," those critical voices that tell us we aren't good enough or capable enough. The last thing a client needs is more judgment from their coach. By creating a safe, accepting space, free from criticism or expectation, I invite clients to be vulnerable, to explore their perceived failings, and to challenge their limiting beliefs without fear. Letting go of my need to be "right" or "helpful" in a traditional sense allows me to be a true partner – a curious ally who believes, without reservation, in the client's resourcefulness and wholeness.
Moving Forward
These first 50 sessions have been an extraordinary learning experience. They've solidified my commitment to the co-active approach and shown me time and again that when people are given the right space and support, they can achieve incredible things. They can gain clarity, overcome obstacles, and move towards a life filled with purpose and meaning.
Are you ready to explore your own potential? To find clarity or overcome the obstacles in your path? Let's connect. Schedule a 45-minute chat, and let's discover what a dedicated coaching partnership can unlock for you.
