As I started to tell people recently that I am a Life Coach, after cheering for the fact I also got the same question (rightly so) - “Ok but what does it mean?”

Here’s one take on it, as I asked ChatGPT this morning to define it:

Life coaching is a process in which a trained professional, known as a life coach, works with clients to help them achieve their goals and improve their overall quality of life. Life coaches help clients identify their strengths and weaknesses, set achievable goals, and develop strategies for reaching those goals.

Life coaching typically involves a series of one-on-one sessions between the coach and the client. During these sessions, the coach will ask questions, provide guidance and feedback, and offer support and encouragement to help the client stay motivated and on track.

Life coaches can work with clients on various issues, including career transitions, relationship problems, personal growth and development, health and wellness, and more. The ultimate goal of life coaching is to help clients create positive change in their lives and achieve greater happiness and fulfilment.

It’s a pretty good definition of life coaching - AND there’s even more to it!

I love the metaphor of coaching below as it’s such a beautiful description of the nature of the coaching experience and the relationship between the coach and the client:

<aside> 📎 "Mountain guides do not climb mountains for people. Nothing is accomplished, really, if you hire me as your mountain guide and pay me merely to plant your flag on the summit while you sip martinis and observe me through a telescope down at the lodge.

As your guide, I help you plan the climb. We assess your readiness for the climb, examine what you have and what you need in equipment and resources. Together we determine a route to take. We plan how long the journey will take and allow for elements we can't control, be it the weather or a family crisis. We examine what your personal goals are. Are you a peak-bagger, or more into the sheer experience of the high country? We get clear on what a successful and fulfilling climb will be for you.

Mountain guides do not make people climb mountains. The motivation for the climb has to be within the climber. During times of discouragement I may lend support, or even challenge you to reach a little deeper for strength I know you have. I also know that your chances of success are far greater if your motivation is internal. You WANT to climb this mountain! You are excited about it, and you anticipate that the journey will in itself be a large part of the pleasure of the experience. It works best when it is not fear-based motivation. You are not climbing the mountain because you are afraid of what will happen if you don't!

Most importantly, your chance of success is far greater just because you aren't doing it alone. Knowing that I am there with you on the journey shifts your entire mental approach. You push through the temptation to turn back prematurely (as you may have done so often in the past) as you look over at me climbing beside you. You know I will hold you accountable to yourself to do what you said you have come to do. You also know that you retain your freedom, and if you choose to turn back you will not be criticized for it. When we do summit, it is your flag that is planted, not mine, for this was your journey. It was you and the mountain. Your coach was like a good solid rope - support."

Arloski, 2009

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Are you ready to climb your mountain?

Let’s meet at “base camp” for your free, exploratory call!