What is Coaching?
Hi Reader,
In order to answer the question, ‘what is coaching?’, let us begin by looking at the meaning of the word ‘coach.’ The root of this word refers to the four-wheeled carriage that was invented, in Kocs, Hungary, in the mid-sixteenth century, to carry passengers to their destination in an efficient and rapid manner. In the centuries that have followed, the term ‘coach’ has been further appropriated within the transportation industry, and is now synonymous with a railway compartment or a bus. All of these vehicles have a common purpose; to transport someone from their starting point to their destination. Taking this one step further, a coach, in the professional sense, can be defined as an individual who supports someone on their journey from where they are to where they want to be.
Read that last sentence again :) One more time. Thank you!
Now, let’s turn the word ‘coach’ into a verb. Coaching is the action of making that journey from starting point to destination, where you, the coachee(s), and I, the coach, purposefully aim to realize your dream. This means looking at your current reality: what is happening in your life right now, what are you experiencing, what is at your core? We follow this by asking: where do you want to be? Paint a picture of your ideal self, describe your dream, articulate your aspirations. Then, we map out a route to get you from your starting point to your destination.
This is coaching - active pursuit of your vision! Throughout all of this, you will see a central theme; that coaching is centered around you - your life, your ideas, your drive, your dreams.
Have fun and happy doing!
Helping Postgraduate Students and Young Professionals Improve