Many of us have an idea of where we’d like to wind up in the future, but obtaining one’s “dream life” can often feel like scaling an insurmountable peak. For one, many paths can lead to a person’s ideal future, and choosing which is right can prove an overwhelming task. On top of that, many people simply don’t have the resources and tools to examine the external and internal factors holding them back from pursuing their goals. That’s why coaching has become such a popular service.

A career or life coach acts as a partner and guide for those feeling stuck in their current circumstances. Coaches don’t make decisions for their clients, but they do pinpoint some of the beliefs and mindsets that factor into those choices. Bringing such things to light has been a huge help for Kaptivate’s Kate Peabody, this week’s Missing Link guest (listen to the episode here) who went from climbing the Fortune 500 ladder to running her own coaching business. 

Kate had plenty to say about the benefits of hiring a coach, and if you’ve been considering life or career coaching for yourself, here are some of the things you stand to gain from it. 

A New Way of Looking at Things

Positive psychology often gets a bad reputation because people believe it discounts negative emotions. However, coaches have used positive psychology time and time again to help clients adjust the way they think about things. It has nothing to do with disregarding negative emotions and everything to do with altering the impact those negative feelings have on us. Believe it or not, a simple mindset shift can make a huge difference in obtaining the life you want.

Not only does coaching teach individuals to reframe the way they view setbacks, but it also enables them to identify and address deeply ingrained beliefs that may be holding them back from going after their goals. This isn’t achieved from sessions alone, however. The tools and resources a coach can offer are also a huge benefit of signing up with one.

Tools & Resources

Part of doing the mindset work during coaching is utilizing the tools and resources coaches often offer their clients. Worksheets, journaling, vision boards, reading lists — all of these materials can be leveraged to push individuals toward becoming the best versions of themselves. Unfortunately, not everyone knows where to begin or how to fully take advantage of such tools.

Coaches can narrow the resource pool down and help you find materials and tools that will be most beneficial for your specific situation. They’ll also ensure you’re getting the most out of everything you’re using. 

Someone to Go Along for the Ride With You

In many cases, once people have worked through whatever is holding them back, they simply need someone to support them. Coaches are able to go along for the ride in ways that friends and family members can’t always commit to. Sessions present clients with an opportunity to speak about their experiences without fear of judgment or ridicule.

For that reason, it’s crucial to find a coach you connect with. The best results will come from someone who understands your goals and struggles and pushes you to do better, but that process can look different for each person. Taking time to find the “right” coach can be well worth the wait.  

Want to learn more about Kate and her journey to becoming a coach? Listen to her and Mattie chat on The Missing Link for SLPs Podcast.

Did you know Mattie provides coaching to SLPs? Learn more here.