Mentor to COACH - Learnings from Coacharya

It has been an engaging, self invigorating and extremely humbling four months from me, Since Jan 9, 2024, when I started my ICF Coach training with Coacharya . I have been mentoring students/entrepreneurs for a while now, so that's something which come very naturally to me. But coaching is completely different. The journey from mentoring to coaching entails a paradigm shift, where the focus evolves from imparting expertise to fostering client-centered growth.

Reflecting on my own experience thus far with Coacharya, I've encountered some interesting insights that redefine the essence of coaching. These include the following:

Distinction Between Mentoring and Coaching:

• In mentoring, expertise takes precedence, while coaching demands setting aside preconceived knowledge to center on the client's challenges.
• Coaching underscores the significance of delving into the "who" of the client rather than fixating on the "what" of their struggles.

Embracing 'Being' Over 'Doing':

• Mental presence and empathetic understanding supersede verbal interventions in coaching engagements.
• Reading subtle cues like body language and energy shifts becomes instrumental in guiding clients through their narratives.

The Art of Listening and Evoking Awareness:

• The essence of listening in coaching parallels the dynamics of a wife-husband scenario, where attentive listening supersedes offering solutions.
• Coaches are tasked with evoking awareness in clients, empowering them to unearth solutions from within.

Effective Coaching Techniques:

• Utilizing frameworks such as LASIE (Listen, Acknowledge, Share, Inquire, and Explore) and the GROW model enriches coaching interactions.
• Employing open-ended questions and refraining from judgments facilitate a conducive coaching environment.

Cultivating Trust and Understanding Context:

• Building trust necessitates transcending past accomplishments and embracing vulnerability.
• Recognising the client within their unique context fosters deeper understanding and rapport.

Differentiating Coaching from Therapy:

• It's crucial to discern between coaching and therapy, ensuring clients receive appropriate support for their needs.
• High emotional intelligence is paramount in navigating the complexities of coaching relationships.

Maintaining Presence and Centering:

• Remaining present and focused during coaching sessions fosters client engagement and trust.
• Incorporating centering exercises, like meditation, cultivates a conducive environment for meaningful dialogue and reflection.

But then, this is just the beginning. I have, as they say, Miles to go Before I sleep! As I traverse the transformative landscape of coaching, the journey with Coacharya so far has been illuminating, redefining my approach and deepening my understanding of the nuanced dynamics inherent in coaching relationships.

Embracing client-centeredness, fostering trust, and embodying presence emerge as cornerstones of effective coaching practice, transcending mere instruction to facilitate profound growth and self-discovery.