Coaching is really about discovering who you really are and what you are so capable of achieving. So DO Enjoy The Journey and DON’T Hold Back!.
Do – have an initial exploratory session with your potential coach, so you know what to expect. It also gives you a chance to see if the chemistry (which is a two-way thing) works. Good rapport is very important, as you will be having many conversations together on that coaching journey. Use that session to find out more about how coaching works and also about the coach who you may be working with.
Do – get ready for each coaching session. Just turning up is not enough. You get what you give, so give the process your attention. Think about what you want to get out of the coaching conversation, as well as areas that you want to focus on, or issues of concern that you would like to explore. Sustainable coaching requires a commitment to active participation
Do – know that voice that you will be listening to most, will be your own. The role of the coach is to facilitate the exploration of your thoughts through self-reflection, help you uncover the blind spots that may be limiting your self-beliefs and support you in your journey towards actionable and accountable change.
Don’t – worry about feeling awkward and uncomfortable. Facing up to reality – an essential part of the process of change – can be difficult and sometimes painful. Striking that match to see better might burn a bit, but the light of self-awareness that shines through, will be what illuminates your path ahead, to change.
Don’t hold back. Be open and honest in your conversations with your coach, who is there to question, challenge motivate and support you. Change starts with accepting the vulnerability that comes with being real about who you are, how you see yourself, and what you currently feel is your place in the world.
Don’t – expect the coach to deliver you the solution. Coaching is a process of personal transformation from the inside out. It opens up the mind-space to have that discussion that you may have been avoiding, never had a chance to, or simply couldn’t get past the negative voice of your inner critic. Working to unblock the limiting beliefs enables you to access inner resources that will help become the best version of yourself.