Making significant life changes can be daunting, especially if you feel alone - that's where coaching can be helpful.
Life coaching involves having a regular conversation with a coach, during which you discuss areas of your life that you want to change. Unlike counselling, which analyses your past, life coaching looks at your current situation and sets goals for the future. "The reason for having a life coach is to help you live your life to the full," says life coach Pam Richardson, author of The Life Coach. "It’s about keeping a sound work/life balance, about owning your own life." It is a practical and forward-thinking way to get a new perspective on your life.
Is It For Me?
Ask yourself the following questions; if you find yourself answering negatively, these may be areas you could work on with coaching:
- I have a rewarding life outside work
- My personal life doesn’t interfere with my work
- I’m able to say no to others
- I’m full of energy when I leave work
- I take good care of myself – in all areas: diet, exercise, money, relationships
- I take regular breaks at work
- I do at least one thing a day I really enjoy
- I have a clear view of what I want from life
- I know what makes me really happy
What Do Sessions Involve?
Sessions usually take place by phone and last around 30 minutes. You lead the conversation by talking about issues or problems and your coach will ask questions, make suggestions and set you tasks/homework. "I wouldn’t be suggesting, advising, teaching or telling a client what to do," says Pam. "Instead, I may ask questions that people may not have thought of asking themselves. I believe that answers lie within the person and that coaching is a dynamic conversation between a coach and a person who wants to fulfil their true potential."
Prepare for your first session by making a list of areas you’d like to work on. Write a vision of your ‘dream life’ – nail it down. Is there a dream job? Are you more focused on a happy home life? What do you want to achieve this year? This gives your coach something to work with and helps to focus your mind.
How To Find The Right Coach
The most important thing is having a good rapport with your coach. "Effective listening skills are an essential quality," says Pam. "Empathy, intuition and curiosity help, so look for these qualities too." Coaching in the UK isn’t regulated so find a coach who is a member of a respected professional organisation such as the International Coach Federation. Ask where they trained, how they keep their knowledge up-to-date and what they’ve learned from their own coach. "Once you’ve chosen one, set up a regular date and time to talk," advises Carolyn Matheson, master life coach and founding director of People Work Best.
How Much Does It Cost?
Most coaches offer a free 30-minute trial session to see if you can work together. Individual costs vary and may be offered on a sliding scale according to your income. An average is between £100-£400 per month for a 30-minute session once a week. Most coaches ask for a minimum of three months’ coaching to see results.
Resources
www.coachu.com - a virtual university and referral service for coaches worldwide.
The Life Coach: Become The Person You’ve Always Wanted To Be, by Pam Richardson (Hamlyn)
