Chicago Magazine gives Life Coaching some buzz!

Chicago Magazine published an articles on Life Coaching in the January 2009 issue. Written by Karin Horgan Sullivan, it was titled: "Do I need a Life Coach?" - the rise of the new approach to self-improvement leads to answers for many-and questions, too.

The articles does a few things? Firstly, It shed a little more light on a profession, that is only a decade old. I remember thinking hearing about Life coaches a few years ago, and I pictured cheerleaders clapping bedside to wake you, or something cheesy and Stuart small(ish) Like "YES! You are smart enough! Strong enough! and Gosh-Darnit! People will like you" The more I think about it. I attended Tony Robbins 4-day seminar in 1998, in San Francisco...that was a form of coaching/motivational speaking. I also loved the movie Hitch...also a form of coaching. So as it reforms and shapes, it is becoming more digestible to mainstream.

The second thing it did, was to give some good advice to Coach-shoppers. Th author explained five different points to consider: "Take Stock.", "Understand the difference between a life coach and a therapist", "Shop wisely", Tailor the Experience" and "Really commit". It was quite interesting to read article geared to the person seeking more information about coaching.

I particularly liked the quote cited from Alison Miller, a local Chicagoan coach saying: "Coaching isn't about giving advice; it's about helping clients learn about themselves." This little nugget of distinction is paramount. The client is an EXPERT on themselves...the coach merely brings in the toolbox and in tandem the two work together to generate a plan that executes the intended goals. Love it.

Again, the article can be found in Chicago Magazine. Its worth the 2-page, five minute read. If for no other reason than to give each and everyone a new option for self-improvement.