MY TOP TEN REASONS WHY A COACH IS DIFFERENT FROM A FRIEND
- A friend brings their ideas of who they believe you to be. Everything you say comes through the filter of their beliefs about you. A coach doesn't choose who you are for you and therefore will hear you with a broader ear. This opens new possibilities.
- A coach is not engaged to bring their personal ethical beliefs to your sessions. It means that your sense of ethics, morals and beliefs will prevail.
- A friend may have a stake in what you choose or what you do. A coach does not. A coach adheres to your agenda
- A coach is, ideally, trained and will hear your underlying belief systems, which at times could be limiting your possibilities, and ask questions to further illuminate answers that may previously have been out of reach.
- Powerful questions (ones that create forward movement) are an art form. Friends aren't always well practiced in this area.
- Friends sometimes quickly draw conclusions, well trained coaches do not.
- Friends listen to know you and at times to comfort you. Coaches listen to assist you in your agenda.
- Friends have their own set of needs they expect you to fulfill in order to be their friend. Coaches don't have expectations of you, which provides a pressure-free environment.
- Friends will listen to you as they engage in other activities (cooking, texting, eating, etc.). Your coach focuses solely on you, with no other interruptions. You're more likely to be heard on a deeper level with this unilateral, uncompromised focus.
- A coaches goal is to create forward movement, deeper understanding and to be with you where you are. A friend's goal is to be who they are when they are with you.
- Get a professional coach certified by an independent standards organization--not one who is certified only by a school they paid for--because it will pay off for you!