Coaching has become a widely-used word in leadership and personal development, yet many people misunderstand what coaching actually is. Some see it as therapy, others imagine consulting or mentoring, and still others think coaching is simply offering encouragement. Coaching is indeed supportive and positive — but it is also far more intentional, structured, and transformative.

WHAT IS COACHING?
The International Coach Federation defines coaching as “partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential.” In simple terms: coaching is a conversation designed to spark clarity, action, and growth. While definitions vary, five core elements consistently show up in effective coaching relationships:
1 | Coaching is a Partnership

• Coaching is not something done to people — it's done with them.
• Coaches walk alongside clients, honoring their wisdom and autonomy.
• The coaching relationship creates a safe space for honest reflection, deep listening, and courageous exploration of new possibilities.

2 | Coaching Accelerates Transformation

• A good coach helps clients clarify what truly matters. 
• Through powerful questions, the coach helps uncover passions, strengths, values, and destinations. 
• Clarity leads to momentum — and momentum leads to meaningful change.

3 | Coaching Maximizes Potential

• People are often more capable than they realize.
• Coaches highlight strengths, invite imagination, and help illuminate what might become possible.
• Coaching often begins with the question: What could your life or leadership look like if you fully leaned into your gifts?

4 | Coaching Focuses on Results
Coaching doesn’t stop at ideas. It moves into action. Clients leave coaching sessions with next steps — concrete, meaningful, aligned with their goals. And if something doesn’t work, the coach helps the client learn and adjust, without judgment.

5 | Coaching Sees Clients as Resourceful
The foundation of coaching is belief in the client’s potential. Instead of offering solutions, the coach draws out insight. This leads to ownership — and ownership leads to lasting change.

WHAT HAPPENS IN A COACHING SESSION
A coaching session typically follows a simple structure:

• The client chooses the topic.
• The coach and client identify the desired outcome for the conversation.
• The coach helps the client explore possibilities, patterns, and insights.
• The session concludes with clear action steps and accountability supports.
• The client always leaves with clarity and next steps.

FINAL THOUGHT
Coaching is not about fixing people. It’s about unlocking what’s already within them.
When we believe people are capable, we help them become capable.
When we walk beside them, they discover their own strength.
Coaching is an act of trust — and an invitation to growth.