Maybe you’ve considered working with an executive coach this year, but have you asked yourself, “How do I prepare for executive coaching? And do I have what it takes?”
Well, if you’re looking for a simple answer, here it is: yes, you do!
But here’s the catch – it takes dedication, motivation, and a willingness to put in the hard work, and let me tell you, it can get tough.
So, if you think you have what it takes, here is how to prepare.
Have the Right Mindset
Are you determined to succeed and reach your goals? Are you ready to be real and open to evaluating your shortcomings? Do you have the courage and dedication to work hard and develop yourself? If so, you’re on the right track.
An executive coaching session once every two months won’t help your progress. You need to show up regularly and often, and your coach will not do the work for you.
They will be there to support you, guide you, help you reflect, and provide tools that you can practice. But once each coaching session ends, it’s up to you to go out there and practice, jump, fall, and get up again. Then you’ll have something to talk about in your next session.
Your growth requires a mindset of determination, openness, and commitment to be successful.
Determine Your Goals
Many people seek out executive coaching because someone asked them to modify their behavior. Others are driven by potential monetary rewards. Sometimes, they come because they have no other option. Or they take advantage of the fact that their organization is footing the bill.
To realize ambitious objectives, overcome stumbling blocks, and continue developing, enthusiasm for self-development is paramount.
Consider the reasons that bring you to executive coaching. Do internal or external forces propel you?
You must ask yourself: “What do I want to achieve through leadership coaching?”. “What are my intrinsic motivations?”. Be honest and realistic about your objectives for the executive coaching process to be successful.
Here are some examples of self-development goals you may have:
- Improve communication and relationship-building skills
- Become more assertive and develop a stronger presence
- Foster greater collaboration among teams and increase productivity
- Enhance problem-solving and decision-making capabilities
- Develop greater confidence and self-awareness
- Increase motivation and focus
- Learn how to delegate and empower others
- Gain clarity on your leadership style and vision
Your coach can keep you aligned with your objectives and provide expertise, support, and direction throughout this transformative period, as long as you truly crave to realize your aspirations.
Your Coach has Been There Too
Remember one important thing, the executive coach you work with has most likely gone through many of the challenges and hurdles you are going through. They know what it takes and know when you are not doing the work.
To be a “human being” is to be a verb, a process of becoming human.
And that, let me tell you, is one tough nut to crack. Coaches also have…
Felt like an impostor
Gotten their heart broken
Faced shame and embarrassment
Had self-doubts
…and more
Personal transformation is no easy feat. It can feel like a daunting task leading to frustration and self-doubt. But know that on your journey with your coach, you can expect their full support to match your full commitment.
So, Are You Open to the Icy Dip?
From your initial conversation, share your necessities and dreams with your executive coach. This way, they can determine how eager you are to embark on personal growth.
If you decide to postpone the experience, that is all right too.
Yet, if you are ready and bring forth your honest aspirations, expect your coach to hold you accountable.
Be prepared to be challenged, inspired, motivated, encouraged, directed, provoked, pushed, praised, and celebrated.
If you don’t show up regularly, they’ll ask you why.
If you don’t put what you learn into practice, they’ll challenge you.
If you don’t tell them everything, they’ll get it out of you.
Leadership coaching can feel daunting. You may not know what to anticipate, but rest assured that you are embarking on a path that will take you to greater heights than you could have imagined.
The basis of your engagement is to stimulate self-growth by helping you identify your primary challenges and setbacks to overcome them confidently.
The purpose is for you to part ways, having accomplished something formerly inconceivable!
Only then are you done.