What happens during a coaching session?

Today I thought I would do something a little different. I would lift under the hood of coaching and give you an insight into how it works. So many people still have a misunderstanding about what coaching is, and the value it can bring to your personal and professional life. So, if you have been interested in coaching, or want to understand more about how it works (from my perspective at least) then please read on. Let me give you an overview of what happens during a coaching session.

 

I see first-hand the power of coaching through working with my coaching clients and ongoing professional development; this is supported by my (almost) insatiable need to read about psychology, neuroscience, and the ways of the human psyche! At the core of my practice, as a qualified coach, is the belief that the client has all the answers locked away inside them.

Most people come to me to work on their career or return to work after leave or a break. Parents with the desire to carve out some space and understanding to map their ambitions, balance needs, and wellbeing wants; it is all about a career to enjoy not endure.

 

So, how does this work? Let me share six areas with you,  to peel back the mystery that surrounds coaching.

 

1. We work on YOUR goal.

For most people, you enter the process with a handful of goals you want to work on. Over the sessions, often to your initial frustration, I help you narrow these down into something focused, that can be interrogated and actioned. What is ABSOLUTELY OK is if this changes during our time together! But the core of this is it is YOUR goal; my view on success is irrelevant.

 

2. You uncover what is actually happening.

The best way to make change is to be in contact with reality; what is happening right now. So frequently people want to “rush” to the finish in coaching (I know, that was how I was initially when first coached over 10 years ago) but connecting with the “now” can help you gain perspective and help you realise the steps may not be as complicated as you think.

 

3. We sit, safely, with discomfort.

In the coaching space, we often talk about THE question. It is not something that can be taught, or we work through a checklist. This is the question that opens something in the client – a belief, a realisation and a revelation all at the same time. However, that means it needs to be discussed during the coaching session.

 

4. You feel empowered.

Nothing beats helping a client uncover their strengths – be it emotional, skills, knowledge and/or network- that they can draw on to make the changes they need. One of my very favourite parts of coaching can also be the most fun. Tapping into an almost childlike imagination of asking “What if…” helps create new opportunities and possibilities that haven’t been discovered or considered fully before.

 

5. I hold you accountable.

The number one benefit of having a coach is having someone who will hold you accountable, compassionately. You know that you have someone to check into and to celebrate with! Every coaching session aims to have an action plan that is relevant to your needs and energy levels!

 

6. I mentor and consult, with permission.

This may seem like an unusual inclusion, but something that is essential that I stress. Pure coaching is non-directive, my experience is not relevant. But there are times, for example when I am supporting someone with their CV, that I need to be a little more directive. This is still impactful, as a coaching conversation draws out the information that will make a CV, application form or interview shine, but it falls outside what is recognized as pure coaching,

 

As you can imagine, I could write a whole book on this topic. (Maybe one day I will). I would love to know if this matches up with your experience of coaching (either with me or another wonderful coach). If this has sparked your interest, then you can read more about my coaching approach through this blog. If you want to speak more about how I can help you, then feel free to book a call for us to chat!