FINDING THE RIGHT COACH!
I might not be the right coach for you.
Yep, I said it.
Heck, Jonathan might not be either!
And guess what? That’s ok!
This week I wanted to talk to you about what I think you need to consider when you make the decision to find a coach to support your journey. It is not a decision to make lightly or on a whim for sure! A little extra thought and consideration will go a long way towards helping you make the right choice! Here’s the important factors to consider:
Shop Around!
It is ok look at more than one coach, in fact I think it is important. You should not just look at cost (we’ll come back to that!) but the coach’s philosophy, style, and approach. What is that coach’s experience in their work and their own journey? Does it resonate with the challenges you believe you will face. What is there communication style and level of responsiveness? What are you expectations in that area?
Ask Your Questions
If you reach out to a coach be sure to ask the questions that are most important to you personally. Things to think about are what kind of support you think you will require, does their program seem sustainable and livable to you, and what will this coach expect from you in return? You will have questions that may feel like you’re asking “too much” upfront. Ask them anyway. You don’t want to make a commitment without feeling certain you have all the information that you need!
Be Honest
I mean be honest with the coaching candidate and yourself. It can feel a bit shameful to fully open up about your past behavior and choices. It will feel natural to fib a little when a coach asks what your eating has looked like or your knowledge of a particular way of eating. The more information you can give a coach, the better they can support you and the better they can let you know if they think they can be a help on your journey. I know that I spent a lot of time lying too myself in my life, and it wasn’t until I was truly honest and open that I could get the real support I needed.
Know What You’re Getting
Don’t make assumptions about the coach’s service and resources. Will they be providing a specific meal plan to follow or helping you work on your own food choices? Do they offer suggestions and support for physical activity and workouts? How often will you be able to talk to them and through what channels? What is their average response time when you do have questions? Be sure to have a clear understanding of not only what they offer but what will be required from you to be compliant!
Work Your Budget
Okay this one is just for you and not questions for the coaches but it is an important consideration. Coaching is not cheap, especially a well developed and supported program. But let’s be honest neither are daily visits to Starbucks and other drive thrus! Coaching is an investment in yourself and your health. Don’t see it as simply an additional cost in your budget, place it in your priorities where it belongs. If you need to, look at what expenses you can adjust or eliminate to make it happen. I was not certain I could afford coaching when I started to explore the possibilities but I realized one important thing, I was worth the expense! My health and future were worth more than streaming services and other expenses I could literally live without. Also realize that your spending on the items that tend to affect your health negatively will change quickly and more often than not see you saving funds. Be sure also to ask what kind of contract or commitment your coaching candidates do or do not require!
Trust Your Gut
I can’t really explain this one I think but I hope it makes sense! Reflect on your initial communication with the candidates and explore your feelings. There’s a certain kind of “leap of faith” needed in making your final decision. You’re trying something new and making a true investment in yourself, that can be scary. Don’t let fear dictate your choice but trust how you’re feeling. Does this person make you feel excited about what is to come? What are your instincts telling you?
I can tell you I am excited for you if you are reading this! It means you’re thinking about finding a coach to help you take your efforts to the next level. Working with Jonathan changed my life in ways I am still discovering and I hope that you can find the right person to do the same for you. So like I said in the opening, I might not be the right coach for you. I want you to find the person who will help you reach your goals. That said though, if you want to see if I am the right piece missing in your puzzle click here to learn more about my services and connect with me! I am ready and waiting for your questions!
