What is really keeping you stuck?

When taking a boat out to sea, it is highly unlikely that we would throw the anchor over the side and allow it to drag across the seabed, impeding our progress. Nor would we tightly tie our hands together while attempting to swim.

We would rightly see both ideas as extremely foolish. We have the common sense to recognise that these actions would make reaching our destination considerably harder.

It can therefore be perplexing when clients come to coaching wanting to lose weight, gain confidence or manage feelings of anxiety, but view the presenting issue as the only barrier standing between them and success.

An integral part of coaching is considering the whole person and how different aspects of their life may interact to create barriers or contribute to feeling stuck.

What seems like a relatively uncomplicated goal, such as losing weight, may be connected with low self-esteem, established habits or a reliance on food for comfort. Similarly, a lack of confidence in one area may be influenced by experiences, beliefs or patterns that extend into other parts of someone’s life.

Open and honest dialogue, supported by rapport and trust, can help a client look beyond the issue on the surface. As well as exploring and agreeing on goals, coaching can provide a space to identify the beliefs, habits and emotional influences that may be making change more difficult.

This does not mean that every goal has a hidden psychological cause. Nor should a coach attempt to diagnose or treat mental health difficulties. If deeper psychological concerns arise, an appropriately qualified mental health professional may be better placed to provide support.

Within the appropriate boundaries of coaching, however, understanding the wider picture can help someone make changes that are meaningful and sustainable. By identifying what has been acting as their anchor, they can begin moving towards their chosen destination with greater awareness and fewer obstacles holding them back.