Becoming a coach, I started to hear, “Man, I’d love to work with a coach. I just need someone to tell me what to do.” 

I understand that impulse. If only there were someone to come in and just tell me the answer I’d be in great shape. No more flailing around or feeling confused, I’d just take the shortcut to “fixed”. I wouldn’t feel so broken or so stuck on some days. I could shortcut around feelings altogether.

I want a shortcut. The magic potion. The pill that changes me.

We’re a culture that loves the quick fix.

We love a life hack. We like lists of Top 10s and Best Practices and Morning Routines of Successful people.  That material is produced because it sells. There’s so much promise in being able to buy a solution that looks simple and accessible. When I first became a coach, I thought it would be really amazing to be able to offer my clients solutions. Help them solve all their problems. Tips and tricks and recommendations to a better life. 

Tips and tricks work really well when you’re changing a tire on your car or trying to train your dog, but life can be more complicated. Your emotions, your mood, your language, and your body’s messages are complex for each individual. The signals have very unique and subtle messages for you - and are far more accurate and individualized than any Top Ten Tricks list. 

I focus my practice on being present and connected. I practice deep listening and how to be present with my clients without judgement or expectation. I was taught how to ask more questions rather than providing my answers. I listen to my own wisdom -- but for the sake of being able to support someone else in getting to know their own wisdom so they can uncover their own solutions.

Do you know what happens when you listen to someone wholeheartedly and without judgement?

Do you know what happens when you listen to someone wholeheartedly and without judgement? A whole world opens up as a capable, whole, healthy person in front of you. Someone who is quite ready to forge their own path and find their own solutions with the boost of someone reflecting their wisdom back to them, asking questions that open new pathways. 

 We have enough information. We have enough life hacks. The answer isn’t “out there”. How do you find your own true answers? Coaching allows you to create time in your life to be asked questions. Wrestle with your answers. Understand what beliefs have been driving your life.

Becoming aware of these invisible drivers is pretty magical. As a coach, I see wonderful transformations everyday. It’s satisfying to partner with my clients build a path to lasting change.