For all coaches who feel “called and stalled” at the same time, who are tired of working hard and not getting where you want – this one’s for you.
This article continues the thread begun in my last posting, and is the beginning of a longer work on The Struggling Coach Syndrome (SCS).
After observing the coaching profession for almost 20 years, I’ve noticed some specific patterns and situations contributing to SCS. Below, in no particular order, is a list of the primary reasons I’ve seen coaches struggle to be successful.
As you read the list, notice what resonates for you. It may surprise you.
1) You don’t have the systems, structures and support you need to create and stabilize a coaching-related business.
2) You need to develop your skills further so the coaching itself takes less effort.
3) You don’t trust your coaching and therefore lack confidence. (And notice – everything else on this list can contribute to low confidence.)
4) You need a strategy, a plan of action that works for you.
5) You don’t have a clear vision, so it’s hard to know if you’re on track and on purpose.
6) You aren’t in touch with what motivates you, why you feel led to coach in the first place, so it’s hard to keep going when you hit challenges.
7) You have resistance running, possibly from conflicting beliefs about what you can or should be doing, who you are, who you might become.
8) You’re experiencing “First-time-it-is,” which can be a specialized form of resistance, or it may be the learning curve in new territory.
9) You don’t have the necessary “bandwidth” to build a business right now because, the truth is, your time and energy are committed elsewhere.
10) You’re caught in perfectionism and making it harder than it needs to be.
While reading this list, did you have a Rodney Dangerfield moment where you thought, I resemble that remark?
If so – it’s awesome you’re willing to see that! Now – where to go from here?
First, take a deep breath. Remember that, like your clients, you are also a work in progress.
Then ask yourself what resources you need. What can you access today, to support you with the forward movement you want?
As you consider your commitment to honoring your heart’s insistence, remember to nurture yourself. Surround yourself with the people and situations that keep you growing in the direction you want to grow.
Using the list above, work with your mentor coach to pinpoint the areas of growth calling for your attention.
For a regular dose of encouragement, inspiration and tips, join the free monthly Heart and Soul of coaching calls (get info or register here).
Also, my new mentoring group, the Heart of Great Coaching, is designed to help you stop spinning your wheels and get the traction you want. Let me know if you’d like to learn more about this group.
In celebration of your coaching success!
Lyn
