The Value of Coaching

Potential

As a health coach dedicated to guiding others on their wellness journeys, I knew how transformative it would be to have a wellness coach of my own. However, embarking on this dual journey of being both coach and client has exceeded my expectations and illuminated the great value of coaching in my personal growth. Today was the last day of my program and I felt called to share my experience.

My Longing 

Before finishing my health coach training program, I was already longing for a coach of my own. The way I felt safe and held during the group practices (coaching circles) and 1-on-1 assignments throughout my training, made me certain I could benefit from having such a support system. My childhood was filled with mayhem and even after finding a more peaceful and “normal” adult life, I’ve never had somebody to cheer for me. I’m sure my parents did the best they could but, knowing that never filled the void of not having support and validation.

Options

Once I started my coaching business and immersed myself in the health & wellness world, more and more offers of coaches for coaches and different programs showed up every day on my social media feed. I got to know many people I now admire and trust that would be good coaches. There were lots of group coaching options from renowned experts in the field that caught my attention. It sounds selfish but, as I wanted my experience to be really special, I waited until my intuition led me to the right person to work with me on a one-on-one container. 

Wellness Coach

I was aware that coaching isn’t about expertise in a particular subject but about giving the gift of presence, listening with compassion, and asking good questions. I had been well-trained by incredible teachers at IIN – Institute for Integrative Nutrition. Nonetheless, I was looking for a wellness field insider’s perspective, that could also provide some guidance to my business. Thinking about the best coaching demonstrations I’d seen and the best coaching teacher I had had at IIN, Zack Bodenweber’s name came to mind. 

The One

I’ve witnessed Zack’s competence as a coach and respected him, but for months I didn’t feel ready to be coached by him. When I started reading his writings, I resonated deeply with his realizations, pains, and vulnerabilities. Although my intuition was telling me he was the right person, I felt small for his greatness. Then he published his first book – Notes on Awakening– which I immediately ordered. After reading such open-hearted, humane, and spiritual notes something clicked inside me, and my heart felt ready. Thank God I dared to inquire because he agreed to coach me! This one courageous step opened up my courage’s door. 

It Began

Interestingly enough, our coaching program started on February 14th – Valentine’s Day. The loving support and encouragement I’ve received over the past six months were invaluable. Coaching isn’t about being told what to do; it’s about having someone in your corner, cheering you on, and holding space for your ambitions and struggles. Zack helped me see further than my vision, allowing me to fly higher and feel bigger. His unwavering presence kept my energy up where I wanted it to be. I finally experienced the support and validation I have longed for my whole life. 

Accountability

Accountability is another cornerstone of coaching. However, after almost 30 years working for big corporations, doing performance plans and evaluations every year, I did not anticipate needing extra accountability. What happened though, during those past months, was this huge desire to share everything! I was excited about just the idea of sharing my insights and small wins with Zack. This feeling fueled a craving for more and more advancements to share, creating a powerhouse of personal accountability. Having somebody in my corner was more relevant than I had imagined.

Empathy

The most profound lesson from this journey is that I had to experience it for myself. I had to feel the greatness of coaching in my own life. As Maya Angelou brilliantly said, “People won’t remember what we said to them, they will remember how we made them feel”. Zack made me feel good, kind, visionary, and unstoppable. My high vibration lasted weeks after our sessions. Like, I can’t stop smiling kind of vibe! And this is how I want my clients to feel. Coaching is the best job in the whole world!

The Value of Coaching

This humbling realization has not only inspired my practice as a health coach but has also reinforced my belief in the transformative power of presence. Coaching is not merely about achieving goals; it’s about being seen, listened to, and supported. It’s about becoming aware of who you are and how to become a better person, guided by an empathic and compassionate presence. Regardless of your education, position, or path, coaching can be a powerful catalyst for unlocking the potential for a fulfilling life. I cannot thank Zack enough for creating such a beautiful, loving, and powerful container for me.

Find the right person for you, one you trust and feel connected with. One that can lift you higher and make you feel brighter. Then you’ll be able to testify to the value of having a coach.

Because Good is what makes you feel well!

Anna.