No matter which way you look at it, life is hard. Our days are filled with a multitude of pressures and frustrations and it is easy to see why so many people feel overwhelmed, anxious and stressed. Over time this pressure builds, and because you are so busy trying to stay on top of everything, you often don’t see the problem until it affects your physical or mental health.
Most people are just so focused on getting through their week that they don’t stop to think about whether they are satisfied with their life as a whole, or even elements of it. And, before you know it, life is passing you by. How many times have you recently said, “I can’t believe it’s nearly Christmas already! Where does the time go?”
Coaching can help you jump off that merry-go-round and land in a safe space in which to re-think and re-imagine parts of, or all of, your life.
What is Coaching?
If you aren’t too sure what coaching is, let me explain in brief.
Coaching is a bit like having your own personal cheerleader; encouraging, supporting and committed to you and your evolution. Coaches listen without judgment and reflect what you say, opening your mind to your strengths, blind spots and thought traps; which enables you to build effective strategies to achieve your goals and make positive changes in your life.
This positive partnership is built on authenticity, trust and collaboration. It can help you examine the thoughts, behaviours and habits that limit your growth.
Coaching is used by many highly successful public figures and celebrities. Hugh Jackman, Oprah Winfrey, Bill Gates, Serena Williams and George Clooney all publicly recommend coaching and describe gaining a clearer picture of themselves and their story, and taking control of their mindset as the benefits they have received from coaching. Ultimately, they employ coaches to ensure they aren’t leaving their progress to chance.
Is Coaching for Everyone?
While I believe everyone can benefit from coaching, for some people it might not be the right time or the right reason.
Here are some examples of when coaching is - and isn’t - right for you.
Coaching is for you if you;
experience a positive life change, such as a new job.
experience a potentially traumatic life change, such as your children leaving home, a breakdown in your relationship, or you lose your job unexpectedly.
are going through a life transition, such as a new baby, the menopause, or you experience other health changes.
feel like your life is stagnating and nothing has changed for a long time.
want to make something happen or achieve a dream or goal.
feel stuck or confused about what you want from life.
feel your life is missing something, maybe a sense of purpose, fulfilment or something higher.
want clarity on what to do next following a thought change or realisation.
want to build self-esteem, self-efficacy or find the confidence to make a change or overcome imposter syndrome.
Coaching isn’t for you if you;
want someone to give you all the answers.
want someone to ‘fix’ your life for you.
aren’t ready to commit to the personal work and time needed to make positive change happen.
need help with deep-rooted psychological issues. (A psychotherapist or counsellor is far better qualified to help you.)
Why Now is the Best Time to Employ a Coach
Whilst this year has been challenging, it also gave us cause to stop and reflect on what matters in our lives. Whether you show that you value your loved ones enough. Whether you say thank you to the people who make your life easier (#ClapForOurCarers).
2020 has turned our lives upside down and made us question everything we thought we knew about the world. There is no ‘normal’ anymore.
That’s actually the main reason I recommend you employ a coach for 2021. If there’s no ‘normal’, you get to create a ‘new normal’. This is both scary and liberating!
Like most people, you probably can’t wait to wave goodbye to 2020. We’re all hovering on the cusp of the new year, desperately hoping 2021 will bring positivity, freedom and a fresh start.
I say; why keep hoping? Why not take decisive action and set out with the intention of making 2021 your best year yet?
It’s never too late for change, growth and introspection. I saw a great meme on LinkedIn a few days ago that suggested the only time it’s too late to change careers is when you’re dead. I would take that one step further and say the only time it’s too late to take control and change your life is when you’re dead!
So, when you’re thinking about setting those 2021 New Years’ resolutions (that, like most people, have previously only ever lasted until mid-Feb at the best!), do your future self a favour, and book a coach to help you achieve them. You won’t regret it.
"The most important thing in life is to stop saying, 'I wish,' and start saying, 'I will'. Consider nothing impossible. Then treat possibilities as probabilities."
Charles Dickens
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