This document discusses what coaching is and is not. It defines coaching as a partnership where the coach helps clients achieve their goals by drawing on their own strengths, rather than the coach being an expert. Coaching focuses on the future and is not therapy, which addresses past issues. Some benefits of coaching include improved goal achievement, decision-making and stress reduction. The document then addresses common myths about coaching, such as that it requires a large time commitment or is too expensive. It introduces LifeQuest Alliance as a coaching provider and describes their individual, group and workshop offerings.
5. Therapist – A Therapist is an expert who provides a diagnosis and treatment plan. They help people deal with their past, understand what happened to them, and why they do what they do. Therapy helps heal old wounds.
11. Mentor – A Mentor is an advisor or teacher who has knowledge, experience or skills to share with a mentee. They guide someone in the footsteps they have already walked.
14. Coaching Is… “A partnership with clients in a thought provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential.” “The ideal coaching relationship honors the client as the expert in his/her life and work, and believes that every client is naturally creative, resourceful and whole.” ~ The International Coaching Federation
15. Coaching Is… “Incredible personal support unlike anything you’ve ever experienced. It is a partnership that focuses solely on the client’s needs, which creates courageous and empowered personal and professional growth, self-awareness, and rapid achievement of goals leading to a very fulfilled and happy life, as defined by the client.” ~ Laura Menze
30. Coaching Myths Myth #1– I can coach myself or talk to my best friend Fact:It is very difficult to create the accountability you have with a coach in a friendship or with yourself. A friend will have their own personal agenda for you, and you will likely let yourself get away with not accomplishing some of the things you set out to do. Myth #2– A coach can be like a nagging mother Fact:A coach will only hold you accountable in the exact way in which you prescribe. For example, if you want them to follow-up with you on your goals once a month, then they will do just that…there is no judgment involved. Myth #3– I need to get myself organized or have my ducks in a row before I hire a coach. Fact:Actually, that’s the perfect time to hire a coach…when you feel disorganized or a bit lost. A coach can help you get organized, figure out your priorities, and get focused on a direction that suits you faster and with better results than when working on these things on your own. Myth #4 – Coaching is too expensive. Fact:There are coaches in all ranges to fit any income. If the coach you have selected is out of your price range, ask for a referral to one that is a better financial fit. Just remember the value of hiring a coach that fits your style and needs as well as the level of experience that coach brings to the table.
31. Coaching Myths Myth #5 – Coaching is just like training. Fact:Training focuses on teaching; coaching focuses on bringing forth your own, personal wisdom. Myth #6 – Coaching is too “out there” for me. Fact:Coaches come in all styles and use a variety of approaches including very mainstream approaches. The key is finding a coach that suits you. Myth #7 – Coaching needs to be face-to-face. Fact:Everyone has their own, personal preference for communication. E-mail, texting, Skype, or phone…coaching is very effective over many different mediums as well as face-to-face. Each has pros and cons. It is simply a matter of choosing something that is conducive to your needs and/or lifestyle. Myth #8 – Working with a coach takes too much of a time commitment. Fact:You choose the time commitment that is best for you. A coach can also help with time management so that you can create the time necessary to focus on yourself.