What is Coaching?

The International Coaching Federation (ICF) defines coaching as partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential.

"When you encourage others, you in the process are being encouraged because you’re committing that person’s life. Encouragement really does make a difference."

~ Zig Ziglar

---

In 2014, I remember when I first heard about coaches is when I joined a consulting company. Agile coaches. I couldn't quite figure out what that meant. I thought perhaps it meant they were better agile scrum masters. It took years for me to understand the difference between consulting and coaching.

What is the difference between consulting and coaching?

Consulting in simple terms is when I know something, and I perform the work. Coaching is when you know something and you complete the job. The power is consulting is the consultant. The energy in coaching is the client.

The rise of coaching comes from client's feeling they are in control of the situation. They have a stake in what happens next and can have the courage to face the next set of challenges.

Thomas Leonard is said to have started coaching as a role. He was also instrumental in creating the International Coaching Federation. Thomas noticed that during his career as a financial planner, life planning was critical to his client's success. The work became life coaching.

Within a few years, he coached and trained people in specific coaching skills different from those practiced by therapists, mentors, and consultants.

Learn More About Coaching

Since the late 1990s, the concept of coaching is growing and is now a fully recognized role of leaders. If you want to become a highly effective leader, learn how coaching can benefit your personal and professional life.

If you want to learn more about coaching and how it can change your life, make sure to schedule your free consultation with me. Schedule Now