Personal Development
Coaching gives people time to think through issues they may have, plan their goals and determine their next steps. The International Coach Federation (ICF) defines coaching as partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximise their personal and professional potential.
A simple way to understand coaching is look at some of the behaviours and competencies of a good coach:
Coaching presence – A bit of an ephemeral one, this really is about creating time to think for the client. Holding the space, if you like. Being there with them – right there beside them.
Active listening – really listening, listening beyond what they are saying to how they are saying it, how they hold their body when they say it, their tone and the energy with which they communicate. It’s about picking up on all the subtle signals. It’s the difference between having told someone something and having been truly heard.
Powerful questioning – a good coach can ask the questions that provoke answers you didn’t even know you had. Hand in hand with this skill comes direct communication. The ability to summarise what you’ve said and rephrase it, turn it into a metaphor or just turn it onto its head to help you see the bigger picture. This all culminates in those A-ha moments that are so powerful.
We have seen how coaching can help create awareness in the client. But a good coaching relationship will do more than that. Coaching is forward looking, about designing actions, planning and goal setting. And finally agreeing how you will manage the process and be accountable for the work.
How I work
I usually work remotely using Zoom. This secure platform means the convenience of joining from anywhere with wifi and allows our work to be recorded for you to reflect and review as you want.
I also offer retreat based intensives near my home in Co Donegal, Ireland. Design a Retreat come and stay a few days or longer. We can build a retreat to suit your needs and budget with add on options to make your stay truly transformational. If you chose, we could work with my horses for some profound learning on authenticity and presence. I am also a licensed Firework career coach so can help you think through the next steps on your career path.