Coaching is a word very commonly used in all areas of our lives. From sports coaching to professional coaching and everything in between. It is therefore not always easy to really understand what coaching is about.
The International Coaching Federation defines coaching as ‘partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximise their personal and professional potential’.
Coaching is about recognising that changes are required in your life and taking the time to step back from your day-to-day life to assess all the options you have available.
In the words of Terence Houlihan, “if you wish your life were different… do you life differently.”
It is sometimes difficult to move forward in your life with all the responsibilities, pressures and self-doubt we put onto ourselves. It is even more challenging to do so alone. Working with a coach will allow you to create a breathing space and appreciate the situation by opening yourself to different perspectives. By partnering with your coach, you will feel supported in managing the changes you are looking for.
As a coach, my mission is to make you aware of your potential, strengths, resources and understand how you work best. Working together will help open up a world of possibilities by getting you out of your comfort zone and by giving you the push you need to try new things and keep you accountable.
I am often asked which tools are being used during a coaching program. The logic of tools is very re-assuring. It means there is a method and therefore a specialist who can find the solution. While a coach is a specialist fully trained and accredited, the true specialist is you! Are you ready?
The client has to be ready for change. The client has to be ready to take risks. Reviewing what you have always done, what you have always believed in, is putting you in an unknown field. You will see things through new perspectives and test new habits. This is the pre-requisite for a successful coaching approach.
The coaching tools are there to help increase awareness and consciousness. A questioning approach underpins the process. However, scaling questions, visualisation and value assessment as well as goal setting could also be part of the programme. The approach is individualised to each client.
I have also been trained to use a transformative tool that enables powerful changes called the Energy Leadership Index Assessment. This tool has been developed by iPEC (US top rank rated coaching School). This assessment measures the energy level associated with our attitude and perspective of the world. It is a great support to shift consciousness and set the scene for an optimised change process.
Coaching is about a relationship between two individuals where trust is fundamental. Working with someone to change our perspective of the world could be unsettling but should be a fun and rewarding process: it is allowing you to find the best you.
3 March 2021
by Veronique Salle-Fertat