What is coaching?

Coaching is a process that brings people in touch with their values, priorities and purpose.  It
enables them to reach their goals and lead a life of more balance, joy and fulfillment.

According to the Institute of Professional Empowerment Coaching, “Coaching challenges
people to take the time to focus on what they really want, and helps them recognize and break
through what is holding them back from manifesting their dreams.  People are tired of doing
what they “should” do, and [would rather] experience a fuller life by doing what they choose to
do.  [A coach] helps them do just that – experience the life of their choosing."

What are the benefits?

People who work with a coach have a chance to look at their lives in a meaningful way,
examine their priorities and their values, and learn a tremendous amount about themselves.  
They become able to see their situations from a new perspective.  As they take steps toward
their goals, their confidence grows, and they find themselves able to do things that previously
seemed out of reach.  The end result is a life that is more balanced, and more satisfying.

Who should hire a coach?

People who want to make real changes in their lives, and are willing to take action on this
desire.  Clients should be willing to stretch beyond their usual comfort zones, and be open to
new possibilities.  Coaching is very effective when clients have a clear picture of how they want
their life to look, or when clients have a particular area of their life that they wish to change.

What do I look for in a coach?

Because the coaching relationship is very personal in nature, you want to find a coach with
whom you feel comfortable, and with whom you are able to communicate openly and honestly.  
You may want a coach who has a particular area of expertise, or one with a specialty geared
toward your needs.  Your coach will be your partner, your confidante and your cheerleader as
you examine and move forward in your life, so you should find a coach who will be effective in
these roles.  A coach should be non-judgmental, an excellent listener, and willing to hold your
agenda.

How long does someone work with a coach?

The average coaching relationship lasts for three to six months.  Three months is usually the
minimum commitment, to ensure that clients have enough time to see meaningful and
sustainable life changes.

Is coaching like psychotherapy?

There are some stylistic similarities, but otherwise no.  Therapy looks mainly at past issues
and tends to be problem-focused.  Coaching, which is more solution-focused, starts right
where you are now, and looks at exactly where you want to be.  With that end in mind, a coach
helps you put together a plan to make whatever changes are necessary to get there.
One doesn’t
discover new lands
without consenting
to lose sight of the
shore. –Andre Gide
Karen Harvey, CEC · Clarity Coaching
916-355-8935
claritycoaching@sbcglobal.net  

Copyright 2005
All Rights Reserved
Coaching Questions and Additional Information