5 Pivotal Lessons for Aspiring Coaches I made in my first year

Hey friends,

after close to 4,5 years as a dream job coach and founder of the @careerbootcamp I thought I start sharing my learnings, pitfalls and successes so you aspiring coaches can profit from them. And I invite other coaches to join this weekly discussion, sharing their journey, tipps and tricks. So - here we go with #1 of what will become a weekly blog for coaches:

To begin with: Embarking on the journey of becoming a coach is an exhilarating and transformative experience. Yet, as with any new endeavor, the path is paved with challenges and sometimes harsh lessons. In this inaugural blog post, I share the five most significant learnings from my first year as a coach, insights that have shaped my approach and continue to guide my practice.

1. Embrace Vulnerability and Lead with Authenticity

One of the most profound realizations I had early on was the power of vulnerability and authenticity. As coaches, we often find ourselves guiding others through their personal and professional journeys, but true connection and trust can only be established when we lead by example.

Embrace your own vulnerabilities and share your authentic self with your clients. This not only fosters a deeper level of rapport but also demonstrates the courage and self-awareness you aim to cultivate in them. By being genuine and transparent, you create a safe space for exploration, growth, and transformation.

2. Continuous Learning is Paramount

The coaching profession is a dynamic and ever-evolving field. What worked yesterday may not be as effective tomorrow. Embrace a mindset of continuous learning and growth, actively seeking out new knowledge, techniques, and perspectives.

Attend workshops, read extensively, and engage with other professionals in the field. Stay abreast of the latest research and trends, and be willing to adapt your approach as needed. This commitment to lifelong learning will not only enhance your skills but also ensure that you remain relevant and effective in supporting your clients' diverse needs.

3. Persevere with Dedication and Conviction

One crucial lesson I learned in my first year as a coach is the importance of perseverance, dedication, and conviction. Don't wait for your environment to praise you or acknowledge your efforts immediately. It takes time for those around you to recognize and appreciate the value you bring as a coach. Keep pushing forward with discipline and unwavering belief in your mission. Trust in the process and the impact you are making, even when external validation is scarce. Remain dedicated to your craft, continuously refining your skills and staying true to your coaching philosophy. The recognition and acknowledgment will come, but it should not be the driving force behind your efforts.

4. Establish Clear Boundaries and Expectations

While empathy and compassion are essential traits for a coach, it is equally important to establish clear boundaries and expectations from the outset. Clearly define the scope of your services, your availability, and the responsibilities of both you and your clients.

5. Build a Supportive Network

The coaching journey can be both rewarding and challenging, and having a supportive network can make a significant difference. Surround yourself with like-minded professionals, mentors, and peers who can offer guidance, encouragement, and accountability.

Participate in coaching communities, attend networking events, and seek out opportunities for collaboration and knowledge-sharing. This network can provide invaluable insights, resources, and a sense of camaraderie that can help you navigate the ups and downs of your coaching practice.

So - as you embark on your coaching journey, remember that each lesson learned is a stepping stone towards becoming a more effective and impactful coach. Embrace the challenges, celebrate the victories, and continue to grow and evolve. The path may not be easy, but the rewards of empowering others to achieve their full potential make it all worthwhile.

And if you already started: share your learnings.

• What did you find most challenging,
• What did you find most rewarding on your way to become a coach?

Wishing YOU a great start into becoming an #AWESOMECOACH

Have fun:-D

Michael