International Coach Federation (ICF) defines coaching as partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential.
For many, coaching is a life-changing experience that dramatically improves their outlook on work and life while improving leadership skills. Coaching helps people tap into their potential, unlocking sources of creativity and productivity.
Beyond definitions, I can tell you that my personal journey with coaching began when I read Cheryl Richardson’s book Take Time for Your Life back in the early 90’s. She was the first personal coach I had ever heard of, and in fact, was one of the first coaches period! I wrote down in my goals, I will be a coach, it so resonated with me.
Forward a couple of years, the training company that helped me with growing my business announced a coaching program- I was elated! I quickly became one of their first clients in 1997. Being coached was like nothing I had ever experienced. Through being coached I was able to grow my business and also reach goals in all areas of my life that I know I would not have dared to go for without the belief, support, encouragement and accountability I received from my coach. Being challenged and held accountable are crucial to a successful coaching partnership.
I was instantly sold on the benefits of coaching and I knew even more surely that I would become a coach myself. See the video below to get a sense of coaching in action!