It’s 2018, I’m crossing an American border, entering the country with my new Green Card for the very first time. After residing in the US for three years, the moment has finally come when I can afford to revisit my hometown in Kazakhstan without the constant concern of uncertain travel parole. This time, a sense of relaxation and happiness fills me as I confidently approach a border officer and hand over my ID. No longer labeled an alien, I stand before him.
Unexpectedly, he asks, “What do you do for a living?” Caught off guard by this seemingly random inquiry, my confidence wavers. I briefly contemplate hiding behind my suitcase or perhaps even lying about being a stay-at-home mom. Yet, I quickly recognize that both options are ill-advised. With a hint of nervousness, I manage to utter, “I’m a life coach…”
The border officer’s expression changes, a look of puzzlement washes over him – the kind of “WTF is a life coach” look that momentarily takes me aback. He processes my information, and I step forward, officially entering the land of the USA once more, but now as an alien of a different kind – one who proudly embraces the profession she has chosen and wholeheartedly loves.
Seven years have passed since I completed my life coaching training program, and it’s been about ten years since I embarked on this journey of guiding others, obtaining a Master’s Degree in Psychology as a reliable background. As I witness my clients and readers transform their lives through my guidance, a certain realization dawns on me…
Numerous individuals intrigued by the concept of life coaching approach me to discuss the profession and the industry. I distinctly remember a forthright lady who posed a direct question: “Do you truly identify yourself as a life coach?”
To my surprise, my response was a candid, “No, not really.” This admission caught me off guard, and yet, I recognized its authenticity. I do identify as a life coach, but with a nuanced perspective – I see myself as someone deeply committed to assisting individuals in navigating their journey from point A to point B in their lives, while offering them to rely on my expertise in psychology.
However, I hesitate to fully align myself with the current state of the life coaching industry. While it claims to empower clients in achieving their goals, there exists an unsightly underbelly of misrepresentation and shallow promises within the profession.
In essence, if doubts lingered about hiring a life coach, they may not have been entirely unwarranted. Even if you’re a life coach yourself, harboring doubts about your continued presence in the industry might be a sign worth considering. There may lie all the answers to the painfully frustrating question: why doesn’t my practice take off and why is it so hard to sell my services?
Throughout my time in the life coaching realm, I’ve encountered a diverse array of individuals who have embraced this path. I’ve observed these unique souls, brimming with potential and intelligence, gradually conforming to industry standards until their individuality is obscured by a veneer of cookie-cutter “success.”
It’s time to delve into the less glamorous aspects of life coaching – buckle up, for there’s much to uncover. I promise, this is not just a rant: the objective of this exploration is for you to find your solutions to developing the practice that is aligned with your values and goals.
Ugly truth #1
Promising to mend fractured family dynamics? Certainly. Guaranteeing business triumphs? No problem. Dealing with anxiety and self-loathing? Well, maybe consult a psychotherapist, but if you’ve already paid, we’ll tackle those issues as well.
The notion that working with a life coach guarantees the realization of any and every desire is a telltale sign of ineptitude. I don’t profess to fully comprehend the intricate workings of life, but I am well-acquainted with what doesn’t work. The simplistic “work hard and will it into existence” mentality falls short – life’s complexity extends beyond such a formulaic approach.
Human beings are inherently diverse, and not everyone can achieve everything. The societal, psychological, and emotional intricacies that shape our lives cannot be distilled into a one-size-fits-all solution. The pursuit of endless materialistic goals often drives individuals to sacrifice their well-being and authenticity, leading them down a path devoid of true fulfillment.
One of the critical shortcomings of life coaches is their inability to critically assess and align the goals they promise to help clients attain. Many individuals remain ensnared in the illusion of grandeur for extended periods, relying on life coaches for companionship within their self-imposed delusions. The elusive “one more step, one more breakthrough, one more insight” becomes a mantra, perpetuating a cycle of unfulfilled promises.
Life coaches often profess to address profound psychological and spiritual issues, such as human relationships, while possessing a limited understanding of human nature. My training predominantly featured a simplified dichotomy between the “survival mechanism” (the antagonist) and the “essence” (the hero).
The notion of “essence” was synonymous with boundless potential and limitless possibilities, obediently serving the ego’s desires. However, this perspective is flawed – it reduces the intricacies of human existence to a simplistic binary, a gross misrepresentation.
The truth is more complex and nuanced. Fears, insecurities, and personal histories shape our interactions, often leading to intricate dynamics that defy easy categorization. Confining individuals to the rigid roles of “essence” and “survival mechanism” fails to acknowledge the depth and subtleties that define our existence.
A typical life coaching exchange may unfold as follows:
“- I can’t market my services to my friends.
Why not?
I’m apprehensive and fearful discussing my work with them.
What’s the underlying fear?
The fear that my service lacks value.
How would your essence approach this situation?
From my essence, I recognize the value of my service and can confidently explain it to my friends.
How many friends will you engage in conversations about your service?
I’ll approach ten friends before our next meeting.”
However, this dialogue highlights several inherent flaws:
a) Often, the reluctance to promote a service is rooted in its inadequacy, with the “survival mechanism” actually serving as a truthful guide.
b) Adopting a state of unwavering self-worth is often fleeting, providing little lasting impact, especially when devoid of genuine authenticity.
c) This approach can lead to self-imposed pressure and an inflated sense of self-worth, overshadowing the essential need for continuous improvement and evolution.
Furthermore, deep-seated fears do not subside through avoidance or superficial reassurances. Instead, they thrive and intensify when neglected. Fear is ingrained within our very being and requires substantial time, focused attention, and a holistic approach to heal and grow.
Sabotaging behaviors serve as indicators of the disconnection between actions and authenticity. They signify a misalignment with one’s genuine path and highlight the urgency for self-exploration and a recalibration of priorities. Yet, the life coaching industry often reinforces ego-driven aspirations, perpetuating a cycle of empty pursuits.
In essence, life coaches often become servants of the ego, guided by ambitions and insatiable desires. The pursuits of wealth, fame, and self-importance, while prevalent within the industry, diverge from the essence of life itself.
And speaking of progress…
During their training, life coaches frequently overlook their pre-existing skills and talents. The curriculum emphasizes the exclusive use of open-ended questions and reflective techniques, eschewing consulting, training, and assumption. This narrow focus inhibits their ability to truly guide clients from point A to point B in their personal journeys.
The incongruity lies in the fact that clients seek tangible progress and transformation, yet the coaching approach solely reliant on questioning and reflection often falls short. While these elements are valuable components, they represent only a fraction of the comprehensive process required to effect significant change.
In reality, a life coach must not only possess the capacity to analyze a client’s current circumstances but also possess the skills to provide guidance, counsel, and training. The journey from one point to another necessitates a multifaceted approach – an amalgamation of expertise, experience, and personalized insights.
The crux of the issue lies in the disregard for the client’s holistic needs. A life coach must possess a deep understanding of the subject matter, augmenting their existing knowledge with the necessary skills to facilitate growth and transformation. An essential aspect is the ability to differentiate between acquired knowledge and innate understanding, a crucial distinction often overlooked.
I advocate that coaches embrace their unique niches, leveraging their expertise to address the diverse needs of their clients. For instance, proficiency in launching an online business can be complemented with the skill of identifying and resolving fears and talents. This comprehensive approach empowers clients to navigate a holistic journey rather than relying solely on surface-level guidance.
Why, then, does the industry perpetuate a singular approach? A primary reason may lie in its desire to streamline and profit from a mass appeal. The oversimplified “question-and-reflection-only” paradigm caters to a broader audience, enticing individuals to enroll in coaching training programs. However, this approach sidesteps the inherent complexity of the human experience.
Effective coaches must rise above industry norms, marrying their unique backgrounds with a dedication to their clients’ growth. Only through this individualized approach can the true essence of life coaching be realized.
Why, you may ask? The answer is multifaceted.
Ugly Truth #2
Yet, the life coaching industry often encourages a distorted perception – one that blinds coaches to their own unresolved issues and the true essence of life itself. Emerging coaches, often grappling with existential crises, enter this realm seeking solutions to their inner turmoil. However, the very nature of the industry fosters a propensity to project one’s unresolved struggles onto others.
In the quest to alleviate their own turmoil, many coaches are propelled by an earnest desire to assist others. This benevolent impulse, while noble, often stems from an inability to confront the root causes of their own challenges. They fervently seek to mend external issues, inadvertently evading the shadow lurking within.
During my training, coaches-in-training underwent extensive introspection aimed at addressing personal issues before embarking on their professional journeys. While this intention was well-meaning, the outcome was often skewed. The industry’s tendency to prioritize conformity and the outward veneer of success overshadowed the deeper need for genuine self-discovery and growth.
Consequently, life coaches don masks of triumph and achievement, concealing unresolved crises beneath the facade of “successful coaching.” This superficial success becomes a fragile shield against inner turmoil, creating a dissonance that sows seeds of further unrest.
As life coaches plunge deeper into the coaching arena, a subtle shift occurs. The focus on authentic personal growth gives way to aspirations of conforming to the industry’s predetermined image of success – a veneer that stifles authenticity and exacerbates inner conflicts.
In truth, the path of a life coach demands introspection, humility, and the ability to shed ego-driven ambitions. To seek recognition, wealth, and fame is to lose sight of the profound calling to guide others while embracing one’s own vulnerability.
Ugly truth #3
Individuals encounter life coaching during personal crises, prompting them to pursue this profession as a means of addressing their own challenges. Subsumed within a culture characterized by ego, ambition, and materialism, these aspiring coaches navigate an environment rife with stereotypes and expectations – striving to mold themselves into the “ideal coach.” This superficial transformation provides temporary relief, camouflaging unresolved issues beneath a façade of success. However, the festering wounds remain unattended. Struggling to secure clients and grappling with inherent trust issues, these coaches are often urged to seek coaching themselves – perpetuating a cycle of dependency within the industry. Coaches are manipulated into believing that they cannot sell their services without first purchasing the same service from someone else. This creates a cycle of interdependence and financial obligation. The quest for validation continues, fueled by the relentless pursuit of accreditation and certification. While accreditation and certification initially present valuable opportunities to improve professionalism and demonstrate commitment to quality of the service, they are being abused when institutions, devoid of objective criteria, provide fleeting reassurances at the cost of financial investment. Some mentor coaches and trainers exploit this dependency, compelling new coaches to pay for their services and training without providing the value and solutions they advertise. And this is being celebrated as a success.
This cycle of financial dependence and mentorship further entrenches individuals within the industry. Ultimately, these new coaches become conduits for recruitment, promoting coaching training programs to unsuspecting individuals. Manipulative selling techniques are employed, coercing individuals into enrolling, often despite their disinterest. In essence, the life coaching industry thrives on a pyramid structure, with a select few at the pinnacle profiting from the financial commitments of the many below.
Not giving up on quality life coaching
However, despite the pervasive flaws within the industry, I remain committed to the art of life coaching. I have navigated the labyrinthine depths of the coaching world, emerging with a clear perspective on its shortcomings. I chose to liberate myself from the industry’s grip, allowing my practice to evolve into a more conscientious, effective, and authentic endeavor.
True life coaching embodies the profound act of assisting others on their journey from point A to point B. It demands the willingness to confront one’s own shadows and challenges, often in solitude. The journey is defined by a commitment to authenticity, humility, and genuine service, rather than the pursuit of material gains or recognition.
In a world characterized by consumerism and ego-driven aspirations, the path of a life coach stands as a beacon of emotional intelligence and authenticity. While the industry may continue to falter in its quest for legitimacy, the true essence of life coaching perseveres – a path guided by empathy, vulnerability, and an unwavering commitment to facilitating meaningful change.
Walking the path of the life coaching profession without succumbing to the industry’s prevalent pitfalls is a worthy endeavor. It’s natural to question how one can navigate this complex landscape while maintaining integrity and authenticity. I wouldn’t delve into these issues if I didn’t have a solution to offer; after all, an empty rant serves no purpose.
Allow me to provide a concise overview of the steps that can guide a coach driven by genuine intentions towards establishing a solid private practice, free from the overwhelming influences that pervade the coaching industry.
I’ll delve deeper into these steps in future materials, and if you’re interested in receiving them, please complete the form below. This will enable me to create a close-knit community of dedicated coaches, connecting through emails and sharing further recommendations. Moreover, it will provide me with insights into the challenges you’re facing, helping me tailor my guidance to your needs.
For those who require individualized support throughout their professional journey, I encourage you to reach out via the Contact form. We can discuss your unique situation and determine how I can assist you in overcoming challenges. Our initial session, priced at an affordable $95, will give you a taste of our collaboration, helping you decide if you want to commit to ongoing work. Subsequent sessions are priced at $75 each.
Now, let’s delve into the steps:
- Prioritize Psychological Wellbeing: Start by addressing your psychological needs. This is crucial to prevent compensatory behaviors driven by desires for grandeur, success, or influence. By resolving your own issues, you ensure they don’t inadvertently impact your coaching or become tools for manipulation by those who exploit vulnerabilities in the industry. While it need not be psychotherapy, consider finding effective ways to care for your psychological health.
- Understand the Complexities: Recognize that working with people is far from simple. As a life coach, you’ll encounter a range of psychological processes in your sessions. Don’t hide behind the misconception that being a coach means you don’t need to understand psychology. Equip yourself with a solid understanding of behavioral, social, cognitive, and personality psychology to better serve your clients.
- Craft a Clear Offer: Develop a strong and clear offer for your clients. Understand precisely what they are buying from you and don’t settle for anything less than a valuable and transparent proposition. Stay tuned for detailed insights on creating such an offer in upcoming videos.
- Balance Business and Purpose: While a private practice isn’t solely about profits, it still requires effective business practices. Think of money in coaching as blood in a body – essential but not the sole focus of your endeavor. Organize your practice by establishing a system, understanding pricing dynamics, setting up technical infrastructure, and structuring your day to manage various aspects of your practice.
- Authentic Presence: The way you show up as a coach matters. Avoid the trap of mimicking an idealized “perfect coach” persona, which often leads to inauthenticity. Developing a trustworthy, congruent, and honest coaching persona requires deliberate effort. This goes beyond building a personal brand and involves cultivating a solid connection to your professional role.
Remember, the journey of a life coach is a multifaceted one, encompassing personal growth, psychology, business acumen, and authentic presence. By following these steps, you can forge a path that embraces the true essence of life coaching while sidestepping the pitfalls that plague the industry.
If you’re interested in delving into a personalized one-on-one exploration of how I can support your journey, simply reach out via this form. Provide a concise description of the challenges you’re facing, and from there, we can embark on a collaborative endeavor. Rest assured, getting in touch doesn’t entail any commitment on your part. I pledge not to exert any pressure for you to avail my services, and my pricing remains both reasonable and accessible.
For a comprehensive exploration of the five pivotal spheres that pave the way to a successful coaching career and the transformation of coaching into a dignified profession, consider joining our intimate “club” for free. By filling out this form, you’ll be added to a select group of professionals who will benefit from my in-depth recommendations and training on each of these crucial aspects. Together, we’ll journey through these domains, ensuring your growth and expertise in the coaching realm.