Are you coachable?
Being a resilience coach and having previously coached people in business, I've often found that a key factor in the success of the coaching process is the coachability of the individual. It’s a two-way street where both the coach and the client need to work together. However, not everyone is ready or willing to embrace the coaching process fully. This lack of readiness can lead to a feeling of "this isn't working" and often results in the blame being placed on the coach. When in reality, the difference in successful outcomes usually lies within the person being coached.
Understanding Coachability
Coachability is the willingness and ability to be coached. It involves being open to feedback, ready to take action, and committed to the process. It’s not just about listening to what the coach says but also about being ready and committed to making changes and taking responsibility for your own growth.
Key Traits of Coachable Individuals
Openness to Feedback:
Coachable people are open to receiving feedback, even if it’s uncomfortable. They understand that feedback is essential for growth and improvement.
Willingness to Change:
Change is often difficult, but coachable people are willing to step out of their comfort zones. They realise that progress requires change and are ready to make adjustments.
Accountability:
They take responsibility for their actions and outcomes. Instead of blaming others or external circumstances, they look inward to understand what they can do differently.
Active Participation:
Coachable people actively participate in the coaching process. They come prepared, engage in discussions, and follow through on agreed actions.
Self-Awareness:
They possess a level of self-awareness that allows them to see their strengths and areas for improvement. This self-awareness is crucial for personal and professional development.
Why Coachability Matters
In my experience, the most significant breakthroughs happen when people are truly coachable. They are the ones who see the most transformation because they are ready to put in the work and embrace the process. On the other hand, those who are resistant to feedback or unwilling to change often struggle to see the same results, and then the blame game begins, shifting responsibility away from themselves.
The Role of the Coach
As a coach, my role is to guide, support, and challenge my clients. I bring my experience and expertise to help them achieve their goals. However, the ultimate success of the coaching relationship depends on the client’s coachability. Just like in sports, where an athlete needs to be open to the guidance of their coach to improve, in business and resilience coaching, the same principle applies.
Many people enter coaching with the expectation that they will be spoon-fed instructions and action steps. However, effective coaching is not about dictating every move but about guiding the client to discover their own solutions. Often, clients are surprised at how much they come up with their own thoughts, ideas, and steps forward simply because a good coach has drawn those out of them.
Are YOU Coachable?
To determine your coachability, ask yourself the following questions:
Am I open to receiving and acting on feedback?
Am I willing to make changes and step out of my comfort zone?
Do I take responsibility for my actions and outcomes?
Do I actively participate in my personal development?
Am I self-aware and willing to acknowledge my areas for improvement?
If you find that your answers to these questions indicate a readiness for change and a willingness to engage fully in the coaching process, you are likely coachable. If not, it may be worth exploring these areas further before seeking coaching.
Being coachable is a critical component of personal and professional growth. It requires openness, willingness to change, accountability, active participation, and self-awareness. As a resilience coach, I am here to guide and support you, but the real transformation happens when you show up for yourself and embrace the coaching journey. Are you ready to be coachable?
If you're ready to take the next step in your personal or professional development and believe you have the traits of a coachable person, click here. Let’s work together to unlock your potential and achieve your goals!
