Life coaching is becoming increasingly popular and is a $2.85 billion industry worldwide. The pandemic brought an increased demand for mental health support as life changed very dramatically and people had to deal with many unforeseen circumstances.
But what exactly is a life coach and what do they do?
What is a life coach?
A life coach is someone dedicated to guiding individuals through personal or career challenges, and helping them attain greater fulfillment in various aspects of their lives. Unlike therapists, life coaches are future focused, looking at personal and professional development, assisting clients in building a vision for their future and devising plans to achieve it.
What does a life coach do?
Life coaches play a pivotal role in clarifying goals, identifying obstacles, and formulating strategies for overcoming challenges. By unwiring negative thought patterns and dismantling limiting beliefs, as well as building confidence and enhancing a client’s unique skills, gifts and personality, life coaches provide support to achieve lasting change. They work across all areas of life, including relationships, careers, and day-to-day life, acting as catalysts for positive transformations.
Who should consider working with a life coach?
Individuals experiencing frequent irritability, high stress levels, or a lack of fulfillment in various aspects of life can benefit from working with a life coach. Whether navigating significant life changes or seeking a happier, more meaningful life, the guidance of a life coach can make a substantial difference.
Types of life coach
Life coaches can come in various specialisations, addressing specific areas such as addiction and sobriety, business and leadership, career, relationships, health and wellness, and more. Understanding the different types allows individuals to choose a coach aligned with their specific needs and goals. Many people opt for a general life coach however, as transformation in one area often leads to transformation in other areas of their life.
What makes a successful life coach?
A successful life coach has rapport-building skills, good communication, empathy, note taking, and excellent questioning techniques.
They also need marketing and business skills to share their services with others and to manage a roster of clients professionally.
While a coach normally has some natural ability, there are many coaching courses available too which include training and experience to enable a coach to give the best service they can. The Unbreakable Mindset Academy Certification is a Level 4 Diploma and can be studied at home and online.
What to look for in a life coach
When seeking a life coach, factors like rapport, expertise, availability, and the ability to deliver results should be considered. Finding a coach whose style resonates with you and aligns with your goals is crucial for a successful coaching relationship.
How do you become a life coach?
Becoming a life coach involves choosing appropriate training, determining a niche, and effectively marketing services. While there are no strict regulations, opting for a credible training program with certification can enhance a coach’s ability to facilitate powerful change and build a successful career. If you can commit to 4 hours training a week, you could complete the Unbreakable Mindset Academy Certification in 6 months, although you have up to 12 months. It contains live sessions, 121 mentor sessions, theoretical knowledge and real-life client experience.
