People often ask, “How could a coach help me?” Everyone who comes to coaching has their own personal reason for doing so but in this blog I have drawn on my experience to highlight the five most common reasons for getting a coach: 

1. To resolve an issue or problem 
   You might have an issue or problem you would like to resolve. This might be related to a career decision, a relationship or a personal barrier such as challenges with confidence. Coaching can help you untangle your thoughts and gain a new perspective on the particular issue or problem concerned. It provides a structured approach to problem-solving and gives you a safe, confidential space to discuss and assess the situation. The process can support you to emerge with a clear set of options and helps you move forward. 
2. To explore an opportunity
   You might have an opportunity you would like to explore. This might be related to your work, a relationship or a change in circumstances. Coaching is not all about issues, and it can be very empowering to consider the opportunities in a situation – or a changing situation. Coaching can be particularly helpful at transition points in your career or life. 
3. To help make a decision 
   You might have a difficult decision to make. This could be anything from a decision around your position at work, whether to stay, leave or move sideways, or whether to pursue or leave a personal relationship. It could be a decision relating to a child, an elderly parent or a friend. As a coach, I am not looking to provide advice, but to help you reach your own decisions through creating an empowering and supportive environment. 
4. To help reach a specific goal 
   You might have a specific goal or target to reach. It could be a fitness target, a promotion at work or gaining a qualification.  It could be a goal relating to a relationship, or achieving a better work-life balance, or spending more time with your children. Coaching can help you map out the priorities and consider the blockers and challenges getting in your way.  It will enable you to identify the decisions and actions you need to take in order to achieve your goal. 
5. Coaching recommended by your employer
   It might be that your employer has suggested you have some coaching, perhaps in relation to your professional development. This can be very fruitful, both for you individually and your employer, and can help take your career to the next level. I would caution, however, that in some instances, it can also be challenging. For example, you might not feel able to fully engage with the coach if you didn’t choose them or feel part of the process.  Also, in these circumstances, the coach is usually paid by the employer, so the employer is in effect the client, which can lead to some challenging dynamics. 

If you think you might be interested in having some coaching, or if you have any questions, please do get in touch with me at lauraclarkecoaching@gmail.com