Unlocking potential: what is life coaching?

Coaching assists the client in moving from where they are now to where they want to be and making that progression quicker and more effective than if they worked alone. 

The coach believes the client can find workable solutions to their challenges. Therefore, the coach does not tell the client what to do as this disempowers them and makes them reliant on the coach.

Instead, a qualified life coach will have learnt the skills to use powerful questioning techniques to facilitate the client in discovering for themselves what the best route is for their unique circumstances. This raises the client's awareness, so they know they have the necessary skills to help themselves. In addition, this approach generates responsibility for change and ownership over the means to change.

What is the difference between coaching and other interventions?

The Coaching Academy's 5 D's can define the differences between coaching and some of the other popular interventions:  

• A Counsellor might work with those experiencing significant levels of ‘distress’, which is impacting their daily life.
• A Therapist might work with those that are seen as ‘dysfunctional’ in some way due to previous trauma or an experience.
• A Mentor might work with those seeking ‘direction’ and advice from someone with experience.
• A Consultant might work with an individual looking to ‘diagnose the problems' they are facing.
• A Coach works with clients around their ‘desire to move forward' in their lives. They aid the client in uncovering their own answers using their internal resources.

Coaching is about focus, intent, commitment and enthusiasm from both the client and the coach. Above all, coaching is about setting goals and achieving results. These results can be seen, experienced and measured. 

The future of coaching

Coaching is a dynamic field that continues to evolve alongside the ever-changing landscape of personal development and self-improvement. 

Life coaching is becoming an essential tool for individuals and organisations seeking growth, transformation, and lasting change. With the development of technology, online coaching and virtual sessions have made coaching accessible to people from across the world! Additionally, specialised niches within coaching, such as career coaching, wellness coaching, and executive coaching, are emerging to address specific needs and challenges. 

The future of life coaching promises to be an exciting journey, unlocking human potential and helping even more individuals find their purpose and fulfilment. 

To discover the skills you will learn as a life coach, take a read about what we teach on our signature Life Coaching Diploma, and book your place on our free 'Introduction to Life Coaching' webinar!