It is easy to think that when we qualify as a coach, our job is done – our experience in doing it is sufficient. However, being a coach is much more than this; it’s about what we do between those sessions that impacts how we show up as coaches to our clients.
Building a coaching mindset is how we make sure we are performing consistently at our peak. It is all about prioritising our own personal and professional development as coaches, and modelling what we would expect from our clients.
Think about it: when you’re giving somebody a coaching session, they’re paying for your attention, so you deserve to give them that attention. That means showing up in your best light. It’s true that not all of us can be saints – we don’t have to avoid alcohol or follow a diet – but we need to be mindful of how this impacts us cognitively and be wary we don’t project this onto those around us.
As a result, energy hygiene is key – we must clean ourselves of negativity stemming from our problems, so we don’t empty this baggage unconsciously onto clients. It is only when we set these healthy boundaries between our personal and work life that we achieve better results – sessions where we leave judgement at the door and are listening on a deeper level. Read more about this in my blog – How to protect yourself from external energy.
For many, looking after ourselves can seem like a daunting process, because we buy into the game of thinking we have to do what everyone else is doing. However, it doesn’t matter how we take care of our bodies, just that we make an effort to do it in a way that works for us. For some, exercise could mean yoga or running. For others, it could simply be dancing around the kitchen! The way we look after ourselves is a representation of how we feel about ourselves, and if we truly value ourselves, we will take that step towards improving our exercise, sleep, diet, and more. We will model that healthy behaviour that we want our clients to practice too.
Looking after yourself doesn’t always have to be in the physical sense either; to promote a coaching mindset it is just as important to look after the mind. Taking time off social media can be a hugely beneficial method of disconnecting and enjoying the present moment. Similarly finding those activities that make you happy can make all the difference – socialising, reading, or going to art galleries. It’s all about tuning in to what you find nourishing on a personal level and adding this to your routine.
As a result, a coaching mindset stems not only from experience but from a healthy mind and body. It is vital to develop our knowledge and skills through training, reading, and coaching practice, but it is just as important to make sure we are energetically there for our clients, so we can serve them to the best of our ability. This is when we start to become leaders of example, making our desired impact.
This is one of the reasons why I started my coaching membership, The Coaching Hub – you can read more about it here. I wanted to create a space where coaches can develop their professional, personal, and business development. For new members in November 2020, it starts at £47 a month, so if you’re interested in building your coaching mindset and achieving your goals, click here to join me on this journey!
