By Beryl Dalton


The media today provides a nearly constant barrage of advice regarding most aspects of life. From self-appointed TV therapists to pious politicians, the basic message is nearly always to sacrifice more and work harder. Although no single person can provide good answers for all problems, the benefits of having a life coach provide a realistic platform for achieving personal goals in a workable, satisfying way.

Coaches are not surrogate psychotherapists, and their primary purpose is not to dredge up past issues. The majority are certified and have received training, but do not provide therapy in the commonly accepted sense. Their main intent is to give people support in those areas of life where it is truly possible to make positive achievements that match individual potential. Many clients are professionals, but anyone can participate.

When there is a gap between desired achievement and the realities of day-to-day living, a coach can help. The support provided is not limited to reaching a business or financial goal, but also includes personal solutions helpful in conquering anxieties, building better relationships with others, or making a significant transition to an entirely different career. Coaches help clients define those goals.

These efforts have been described as a form of consulting outside of business. Unlike standard consultants, coaches remain in personal contact with clients for many weeks, encouraging both accountability and continuing response. They help crystallize realistic goals in the areas of career advancement, making more money, becoming more skilled socially, and other categories.

The biggest single advantage is the ability to view a particular problem or situation from the perspective of an outsider not influenced by existing emotional issues or personal histories. Coaches analyze a situation or goal objectively, and then provide possible actions that will help achieve the desired result. They rarely tell people precisely what to say or do, but instead present workable options.

Even though a client may already have a well-defined goal, personal initiative may be lacking. Coaches not only help clarify outcomes, but also provide more meaningful personal motivation for taking continued action. They may encourage the development of useful new skills, and provide support when the inevitable roadblocks or delays cause client frustration. The approach is not punitive, but positive.

They do not take a uniform approach to problem solving, understanding that each situation differs. Clients are not given lectures about what they ought to be doing, but rather receive advice designed to help them break away from patterns of self-limitation. Coaches provide assistance to those who want to make radical changes, but who alone lack the guidance and support that can help make an about-face possible.

Many individuals find this type of help is a good way to crystallize their own priorities, and to discover and evaluate new ways of attaining goals. Modern culture lionizes independent action and thought, but always going it alone can result in wasted effort and even isolation. The benefits of this type of mentor not only include a wider perspective, but solid, realistic achievements that were formerly frustrating.




About the Author:



0 comments :