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How to become a life coach?
Share your journey & guide aspiring life coaches on their path.
Note: Given the growing interest in the life coaching field, we're inviting our experienced professionals to share their knowledge.
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2 answers
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1179
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, CVOH !
I am happy that the field of Life Coaching is growing. It is very popular in some regions and in other regions, people do not know what a Life Coach is, so there's definitely more room for growth and awareness.
So what is Life Coaching ? It is not counseling nor is it therapy or advice. We focus on the here and now - the present and the future, not the past. Our role is to draw out of the client the ability to make plans and goals for their own life. We provide accountability of the client, someone to tell how they're doing with their goals. We use the S.M.A.R.T Goal method - Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time Set goals. The same method I used as a social service Case Manager. People from all different educational and professional backgrounds become certified Life Coaches and my background was heavy social services case management (with all populations).
Life Coaching services are for individuals who are ready to change, not for crisis situations or mental health assistance. A Life Coach sees people who are having issues with motivation so the person can break down barriers or get out of an occasional slump they may be experiencing.
Having two careers at different times in my life, I resumed an acting career in 2018. I became certified earlier that year but I live in a region in which Life Coaching is not known about. I happened to find a most wonderful Life Coach training and certification on line, a school in California - The Life Coach Training Institute. The course was exciting because I still had my case manager mind set and was learning a new twist on how to help people. The two are greatly different. The person who teaches the course is outstanding - dynamic and really cares about the students and the clients. He gives us training every Monday till this day !
The most important thing for me to remember was that I was not a case manager anymore and I now wear a different hat. Although I had learned an enormous amount during 27 years as a case manager, I know the techniques and styles that can easily be incorporated from that career into being a Life Coach.
I did a fast track online course and certification because I had a very strong background in human behavior already and various techniques. There are however very expensive long term programs for Life Coaching which can be done on site. Those would be good for someone with no human behavior background. Many people who become certified on the fast track on line courses have a background in social work, counseling or some human services career. It is a popular career in major cities such as Los Angeles, Northern California, New York City but not where I live.
I hope that this is informative and it's just one persons' path but I am very grateful to have this training experience and growth opportunity.
I am happy that the field of Life Coaching is growing. It is very popular in some regions and in other regions, people do not know what a Life Coach is, so there's definitely more room for growth and awareness.
So what is Life Coaching ? It is not counseling nor is it therapy or advice. We focus on the here and now - the present and the future, not the past. Our role is to draw out of the client the ability to make plans and goals for their own life. We provide accountability of the client, someone to tell how they're doing with their goals. We use the S.M.A.R.T Goal method - Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time Set goals. The same method I used as a social service Case Manager. People from all different educational and professional backgrounds become certified Life Coaches and my background was heavy social services case management (with all populations).
Life Coaching services are for individuals who are ready to change, not for crisis situations or mental health assistance. A Life Coach sees people who are having issues with motivation so the person can break down barriers or get out of an occasional slump they may be experiencing.
Having two careers at different times in my life, I resumed an acting career in 2018. I became certified earlier that year but I live in a region in which Life Coaching is not known about. I happened to find a most wonderful Life Coach training and certification on line, a school in California - The Life Coach Training Institute. The course was exciting because I still had my case manager mind set and was learning a new twist on how to help people. The two are greatly different. The person who teaches the course is outstanding - dynamic and really cares about the students and the clients. He gives us training every Monday till this day !
The most important thing for me to remember was that I was not a case manager anymore and I now wear a different hat. Although I had learned an enormous amount during 27 years as a case manager, I know the techniques and styles that can easily be incorporated from that career into being a Life Coach.
I did a fast track online course and certification because I had a very strong background in human behavior already and various techniques. There are however very expensive long term programs for Life Coaching which can be done on site. Those would be good for someone with no human behavior background. Many people who become certified on the fast track on line courses have a background in social work, counseling or some human services career. It is a popular career in major cities such as Los Angeles, Northern California, New York City but not where I live.
I hope that this is informative and it's just one persons' path but I am very grateful to have this training experience and growth opportunity.
Thank you, this is amazing! I really needed it.
Myrna
Michele, is this the Life Coach Training Institute that you were talking about? https://ilifecoachtraining.com/
Myrna
You are very welcome, Myrna ! Yes, the link you provided is the place ! Have a great day !
Michelle M.
Jennifer Goebel
Manager, Success Coaches
4
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Jennifer’s Answer
That's fantastic that you're interested in becoming a life coach! It's a rewarding journey that allows you to make a positive impact on others' lives. When I embarked on my coaching path, I found my niche in executive coaching, guiding leaders to reach their full potential. Pursuing a master's degree provided me with valuable insights and tools to excel in this field.
For aspiring life coaches, I highly recommend exploring certification programs offered by reputable organizations. These programs not only provide you with essential frameworks but also equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to effectively support individuals in their pursuit of wellness and personal growth. One framework you might find helpful is the life wheel, which helps clients assess and balance various aspects of their lives.
Remember, each coach's journey is unique, so don't hesitate to carve your own path and infuse your personality and passion into your coaching practice. Embrace continuous learning, stay curious, and most importantly, believe in the transformative power of coaching. You're embarking on a fulfilling journey that has the potential to positively impact countless lives. Dream big, stay focused, and never underestimate the difference you can make as a life coach!
Checkout all the different types of coaching: https://instituteod.com/15-types-coaching/
For aspiring life coaches, I highly recommend exploring certification programs offered by reputable organizations. These programs not only provide you with essential frameworks but also equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to effectively support individuals in their pursuit of wellness and personal growth. One framework you might find helpful is the life wheel, which helps clients assess and balance various aspects of their lives.
Remember, each coach's journey is unique, so don't hesitate to carve your own path and infuse your personality and passion into your coaching practice. Embrace continuous learning, stay curious, and most importantly, believe in the transformative power of coaching. You're embarking on a fulfilling journey that has the potential to positively impact countless lives. Dream big, stay focused, and never underestimate the difference you can make as a life coach!
Jennifer recommends the following next steps: