The Crux of Coaching: Moving from A to B Clients enter sessions in position A (their current state) and want to arrive at position B (their desired outcome). But something invariably stands in their way. Identifying this obstacle is the heart of coaching. Asking questions like, "What makes it hard for you to achieve this?" or "What’s stopping you today from getting what you want?" helps illuminate the deeper challenges. Therefore, instead of accepting their initial goals at face value, we co-create awareness and chart a transformative path forward. The Problem Behind the Problem Sometimes, clients come with predefined solutions. They’ve decided, for example, that becoming a manager will fulfill them. But they may not have explored the belief systems driving this goal. By probing further—asking, "What inspired this goal?" or "What else might this bring to your life?"—we help clients challenge their assumptions and beliefs. Therefore, they gain clarity on whether their proposed solution truly aligns with their core values and aspirations. Beyond Black-and-White Thinking Many clients arrive with binary choices: Should they take the job or not? Should they follow one path or another? But this perspective often limits their ability to see creative solutions. Our role is to expand their vision by exploring third options or entirely new possibilities. Therefore, we guide them to break free from restrictive thinking, fostering innovation and empowerment. Coaching at Different Levels: ACC, PCC, MCC Coaching is not static; it evolves as we develop mastery. At the ACC level, the focus is on solving the client’s problem. But this approach keeps the window of awareness narrow. As PCC coaches, we begin shifting attention to the person behind the problem, fostering deeper insights. Therefore, we expand their awareness, enabling sustainable change. MCC-level coaching takes this even further. At this stage, the coach enters an “awareness bubble” with the client, fully partnering to explore profound truths. But not every client is ready for this depth, requiring trust, readiness, and a coach’s ability to hold expansive space. Thus, the MCC-level coach stretches both themselves and the client, creating a dynamic of growth and exploration. The Awareness Bubble: A Touchdown and Lift-Off Process At the MCC level, the coaching journey is fluid, involving a dance of touching base and lifting off into exploration. Questions like, "What needs to happen now, given our discoveries?" help anchor and expand the session. But the coach must also practice mindfulness, noticing what arises in the client and within themselves. So, they decide what to keep, share, or let go, maintaining focus on what serves the client’s growth. Cultivating Mastery: Skills for MCC-Level Coaching Becoming an MCC coach requires:
Masterful coaching involves expanding the possibilities for both client and coach. But this requires letting go of the need to control outcomes. Therefore, the focus shifts to co-creating a space where transformation can flourish naturally. Conclusion: Coaching as a Continuous Expansion Coaching is not about solving problems alone; it’s about unleashing potential. Clients come with surface-level goals, but it’s our responsibility to guide them deeper and wider, uncovering the crux of their challenges. By cultivating trust, self-awareness, and a deep partnership, we can inspire clients to move beyond tactical solutions to lasting growth and fulfillment. Ready to Unlock Your Potential?
If you're ready to go deeper, widen your perspective, and uncover what’s truly possible for you, I would love to partner with you on your journey. Whether you're seeking coaching for personal growth or mentoring to elevate your coaching practice, let’s connect. Reach out to me today, and let’s explore how we can create lasting and meaningful change together. |
