As a coach, your presence is more than just being in the room—it's a driving force that shapes the outcome of your sessions. When we connect authentically with the thoughts and feelings of our clients, we create a foundation for trust, inspiration, and transformation. But what does this really mean in practice?
One way to achieve this is by establishing authentic connections. One of the most impactful aspects of coaching is your ability to genuinely connect. It's about seeing, hearing, and understanding your clients as whole individuals. One step to achieve this is by asking reflective questions. These questions aren't just about clients discovering themselves—they also help you, as the coach, create a space where authenticity thrives.
Leadership and Thought Habits
Leadership is as much a mindset as it is a role. Encourage clients to explore their perception of leadership—do they see it as a noun, verb, or habit? Consider this formula:
Performance = Potential - Interference
Often, the interference comes from limiting beliefs or unproductive thought habits. Guiding a client through reframing their beliefs or the situation can help. Shift "I can’t do this" to "How could this work?" or "This will never work" to "What opportunities exist here?"
The Power of Self-Observation
Change begins with awareness. Encourage clients to step back and observe themselves across domains—physical, emotional, mental, and even spiritual. Questions like "What sensations do you notice?" or "What’s coming up for you in this moment?" can guide them toward greater self-awareness and intentional actions. Using the analogy of “observing from on the balcony” is a great tool for accomplishing this.
In Summary
Coaching is both an art and a science—rooted in presence, structured observation, and collaborative growth. As a coach, you hold the key to empowering clients to uncover their potential, shift perspectives, and embrace the leader within. How do you use your presence to transform outcomes in your teams?
Want to continue the conversation? Reach out, I’d be happy to chat!
Stay true.