J.R. Briggs

[ 9 ] reasons to consider coaching

October 1, 2012

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Why Should I Consider Coaching?

I get this question a lot from people. Coaching is not for everyone but many leaders and pastors have found it to be incredibly helpful in their journey. There is a difference a coach, a mentor, a spiritual director and a counselor. All are important, but coaching usually helps leaders who are stuck get ‘unstuck’ by providing perspective and practical next steps for traction. (Read this post on what coaching is and what it isn’t).

I really like the answer Coachnet gives to people who ask the same question. Here’s what they say:

• It’s intentional. You only work on what you want to accomplish.

• It’s built on the belief that you already have what you need to get started. The coach draws out what you want to do with what you’ve got.

• The coach takes a posture of listening first. They work hard to make sure they’re hearing exactly what you’re saying. Where else does that happen?

• After all that listening, a good coach follows up with powerful questions – the kind of questions that make you stop and think. You can’t answer a powerful question with an easy answer. These questions will stretch you.

• A coach keeps you focused on what’s most important. You’re probably not going to write a five-year plan, but you will make progress toward your goals.

• You can be coached toward any measurable destination. If you can break down the journey into measurable steps, a coach can help you get there.

• Coaching is a relationship first. Imagine a person who helps you find the answers – and is all about your success.

• It’s fun. Ask any coach (or anyone who’s been coached effectively). There’s a serious joy of figuring out what you’re on earth to do (and then actually doing it).

• Bottom line:  coaching works. Got something you need to get done? Got a change you need to make? Need someone to journey alongside of you? Try a coach.

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