Why Do People Hire Life Coaches? The Purpose Behind the Partnership

The Struggle of Going It Alone

Ploughing through life on a solo mission seems like a noble endeavour. Its easy to feel like you should tackle life’s challenges alone.

You don’t want to weigh anyone else down with the suggestion that your life is anything but sunshine and rainbows.

Yet, despite your best efforts, you find yourself stuck, longing for a breakthrough but unsure of how to achieve it.

The truth is, even the mightiest heroes team up to take on extinction level threats when the time comes.

No I’m not being dramatic, the best version of your life is literally at risk of extinction.

This Life is already alive within you fighting to survive against the exploiters of:

• Self doubt
• Procrastination
• Fear of Failure

Barriers like these can feel insurmountable when you’re navigating them solo. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by life's demands, questioning your path or your potential, you’re not alone.

Many of us have experienced this struggle, and it can lead to frustration, burnout, and even a sense of hopelessness.

The reality is, seeking support from a life coach could be the key to unlocking your full potential. Teaming up with a professional can provide you with the guidance and accountability you need to overcome these barriers and create a life that reflects your true desires and values.

My Journey to Discover Life Coaching

I’d only ever been aware of life coaching previously in a sense that they were kind of like supernatural gurus who had the answers to all life’s problems.

I think Tony Robbins role in the movie ‘Shallow Hal’ is responsible. 11 year old me made the connection to ‘magic’ and adult me discounted it as fakery only for highly suggestible people.

But as a 32 year old burnt out GP I was having a midcareer crisis.  The idea of continuing another 30 plus years to retirement terrified me. I saw myself as a bitter and resentful 67 year old GP– if the stress hadn’t already obliterated my health by then. It was a dark time and I was willing to try anything that might help. I realised that just reading self help books and talking to friends wasn’t producing any lasting change.

I felt like I needed some 'magical' inspiration and finally decided to give life coaching a chance. This decision transformed my life. By partnering up with another mind I began to unravel the complexities of my thoughts, fears, and aspirations. My coach helped me identify the barriers that were holding me back, and together we worked to dismantle them. 

This experience completely changed my mind on life coaching. The shift in my career outlook ignited a passion for helping others navigate their challenges. As I learned more about the coaching process and its potential to empower individuals, I became determined to share this insight with others who might be facing similar struggles.

Embracing the Designed Alliance Framework

The key to overcoming obstacles and achieving personal growth often lies in forming a

'Designed Alliance' with a life coach.

This term, originating from the book Co-Active Coaching, describes a powerful collaboration where both you and the coach work together as equals toward achieving your goal.

Here’s how to effectively leverage this partnership to become your best self:

1. Understanding Your Current Reality: Begin by assessing where you are in life right now. What are your challenges, and what strategies have you attempted in the past?

   Reflecting on your experiences can provide valuable insights into your current situation.

2. Clarifying Your Desired Future: What does your ideal life look like? Envisioning your future without limitations can be a powerful motivator.

   A coach has none of your unconscious limiting beliefs. They can guide you to create the future you want, not the future you think is possible right now. Collaborate with your coach to refine this vision into clear, achievable goals.

3. Setting Expectations: Establishing mutual expectations between you and your coach is crucial for building trust and accountability. Discuss your goals, communication preferences, and the level of commitment you are willing to invest in the coaching process.

4. Awareness and Responsibility: A significant aspect of coaching involves raising your awareness of personal barriers.

   Coaches ask thought-provoking questions designed to help you uncover underlying beliefs and motivations. This process empowers you with ownership over your choices and actions.

5. Creating Actionable Steps: Once you’ve identified your goals and barriers, work with your coach to develop a step-by-step plan to achieve them. This roadmap should be tailored to your unique situation and include specific actions to keep you on track.

6. Maintaining Consistency: Regular coaching sessions are essential for reinforcing new habits and behaviours. Committing to a consistent schedule can significantly enhance the effectiveness of the coaching experience.

7. Evaluating Progress: Throughout the coaching journey, regularly assess your progress. Celebrate your successes, no matter how small, and reflect on any setbacks as learning opportunities.

By embracing this Designed Alliance partnership you can effectively navigate the complexities of your life and unleash your true potential.

You not only get a roadmap for your personal growth but you also get empowered to take control of your future.

Conclusion: The Power of Partnership in Life Coaching

The journey toward self-discovery and fulfilment is rarely a solitary one.  

"Every main character needs a best supporting character."

As I’ve experienced firsthand, working with a life coach can catalyse deep changes, guiding you through the barriers that may be hindering your progress.

The power is in the collaborative relationship. By teaming up with a life coach you can cultivate the awareness, responsibility, and actionable strategies needed to achieve your dreams.

If you’re feeling stuck or uncertain about your path, consider reaching out to a life coach.

This partnership could be the turning point you need to break free from limiting beliefs and create the life you’ve always envisioned.

Stay Healthy,

Lewis