Coaching is a partnership focused on your journey of personal and professional development.
According to the International Coaching Federation (ICF), coaching is “partnering in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires a person to maximize their personal and professional potential. The process of coaching often unlocks previously untapped sources of imagination, productivity and leadership.” (source)
When embarking on your journey, think of a professional coach as a trusted travel companion. They are unwaveringly committed to helping you identify and meet your needs, goals, growth aspirations, and ultimately, reach your destination.
You might wonder what is the difference between coaching and mentoring or therapy? They are not the same. A professional coach is trained in a set of competencies and techniques that differ from those of a mentor or a therapist.
“A mentor provides subject matter expertise, wisdom and guidance based on their own experiences. Therapy deals with healing pain, trauma, dysfunction or conflict of some kind, typically with the goal of resolving difficulties that impair an individual’s emotional health and psychological functioning.”
(ICF)
In coaching, the focus is on your development journey – where you want to go, what you wish to achieve, and what steps will take you there. You are in the driver’s seat. A professional coach will not advise you on what you should do, nor will they work on healing a conflict or trauma.
Instead, a coach will engage in active listening, ask tailored, open-ended, reflection and growth-oriented questions and use coaching techniques to encourage you to draw on your own experience and capabilities, engaging in creative and meaningful exploration. Your coach will support your accountability and help you gain new perspectives that will assist you on your personal and professional development journey.
“Coaching is a catalyst for change, reframing your outlook, empowering your actions, and leading you toward a life brimming with purpose and fulfillment.”
ICF
Here are just some examples of the ways you can benefit from working with a professional coach to support you on your personal and professional development journey (for more, read this article by ICF):
Natalie Coach 