Playful guide: Get the most from coaching

Coaching is one of the most rewarding investments you can make in yourself, but like any partnership, the results depend on what both people bring to the process. Coaching isn't something that happens to you; it's something you actively participate in. The more prepared, curious and open you are, the more you'll discover about yourself and the more meaningful your progress will become. Here are five simple ways to get the very best from every coaching session.

After all, coaching is an active process. You aren't going to rock up to a session and, through pure osmosis, get all the benefits without having to put in an ounce of effort. Spoiler alert! Sorry about that!

So, let's look at a few pointers. None of them is earth-shatteringly new, but they are a useful reminder to use to double-check that you are fully and actively involved in the process.

How to get the most out of your coaching sessions

1. Channel your inner Sherlock

Ever wanted to solve a mystery? Well, guess what? Your life is your grandest puzzle! Before each session, take a moment to reflect on your recent adventures, achievements, and challenges. Sharpen your detective skills, jot down your thoughts, and together, we'll unravel the hidden treasures within your experiences. Success is in your preparation and reflection.

2. Embrace the dance of curiosity

Imagine your coaching sessions as a lively dance floor where curiosity leads the way. Prepare your dance moves—questions! What's been tickling your brain? What makes your heart race with excitement? What makes your stomach lurch down to the floor with dread? Be curious like a cat chasing a laser pointer and watch your insights twirl and whirl like graceful dancers.

3. Bring your authentic self to the party

Picture this: your coaching session is a lively party, and your authentic self is the guest of honour. This is not a masquerade ball; leave those masks at the door! Embrace your quirks, dreams, and even that odd obsession with vintage teacups. The more you bring your true self, the more potent your coaching concoction becomes.  

4. Dive into the wonderland of experimentation

Life's a stage, and you're the lead actor! As your personal scriptwriter, I encourage you to try on different hats, experiment with new behaviours, and embrace change like it's your long-lost friend. It's about reframing your internal chatter from "I can't..." to "I wonder..." even if you don't believe...yet!  There is so much power in moving from "I can't do that!" to "I wonder what it would be like if I did do that?"  It's then only a small hop, skip and a jump to "I'll give that a go" and even "I did that and I'm amazing".

5. Spice it up with actionable insights

Coaching sessions aren't just about deep conversations and 'aha' moments. They're about taking action! Take those golden nuggets of wisdom and apply them to your everyday life. Make sure you always leave a session with 'homework'. Whether it's conquering that intimidating to-do list or tackling that dragon-sized fear, turn insights into superhero capes that empower you to leap tall obstacles in a single bound.

So there you have it - the ultimate guide to squeezing every ounce of brilliance from your coaching sessions! Ready to dive in?

With boundless enthusiasm – your very own self-empowerment enthusiast and Chief Inspiration Officer.

P.S. Don't forget your imaginary cape! It's the must-have accessory for any coaching superhero.