What is Coaching?

Coaching, or in our terms, Co-Active coaching is a unique, proactive alliance where coach and client, working together as equals in meeting the needs of the client. Co-active coaching holds that all people are naturally creative, resourceful, whole, and completely capable of finding their own answers to whatever challenges they face. In Co-Active Coaching the client has the answers and the job of the Co-Active Coach is to ask questions, listen and empower rather than inform and advise. The Co-Active model also stipulates that all parts of people's lives-their careers, relationships, recreation, personal growth, and finances, for example-are interrelated and should be addressed as such.

What’s the difference between a coach and a really good friend?

It isn’t always easy to find a coach that fits who you are and who you want to be. But once found, the relationship of trust you build with a coach is a rare one. For many reasons. You probably won't be quite as honest about yourself with anyone else in your life. And your coach will probably be more honest with you (and about you) than anyone else in your life. It is liberating and energising to be heard and understood, and be granted the time and space to say what you think and hear what you say.

It’s important to emphasise what a coach isn’t, as this question comes up routinely. A coach isn’t a psychotherapist, psychologist or a mentor. And because coaches do not provide prescriptions, ready-made answers or solutions, coaches are not consultants.

Can anyone benefit from coaching?

Everyone could benefit from coaching, but not everyone is ready for it. Coaching is for the ambitious, for people who want everything from life—and then some. Coaching is a contact sport for those not shy about confronting themselves. Coaching is for those brave enough to take a journey into uncharted lands, or a new lease on an old life. Coaching is for you if you dream of growing, changing, and achieving.

When do I call a coach?

Most people play life smaller than they need to or want to. There are many reasons: their families, their spouses, their employers, their conscience, etc. Then some wake up and decide to take control. They call a coach because they know that life is not a solitary sport, that support is not a frill or a fashion, but a strategic element of success—however you define the word. Coaches call your bluff, dare you to dream, and challenge you to be the best you can be.

How much time does coaching take?

Standard coaching format is generally, when geographically possible, a first face to face session and then three telephone conversations (30 to 40 minutes) per month. The idea is to provide a regular dose of reflection and follow through.

The limited period of time ensures that the coaching tackles the essential elements—it isn’t chit-chat. It gets to the point and focuses on what needs attention at the time so that you can be who you want to be, do what you want to do, and have what you want to have. Coaching is about results, not just talking.