What is Coaching?
The International Coaching Federation (ICF) defines coaching as
“Partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential”
Key elements of ICF's definition of coaching:
01 — Partnership
Coaching is a collaborative process where the coach and client work together as equal partners. The client is seen as the expert in their own life, while the coach facilitates discovery and growth.
02 — Thought-Provoking and Creative
Coaching encourages exploration, self-reflection, and new ways of thinking. The coach uses powerful questions, active listening, and other techniques to spark the client's own insights and ideas.
03 — Inspiration and Potential
The aim of coaching is to empower clients to recognize and tap into their full potential, both personally and professionally, helping them achieve their goals and make meaningful changes.
Coaching is NOT:
01 — Consulting
In consulting, the expert provides advice and solutions. In coaching, the coach helps the client find their own answers.
02 — Therapy
Therapy focuses on healing and resolving past issues, whereas coaching is future-oriented, focused on achieving goals and fostering personal growth.
03 — Mentoring
Mentors usually share their expertise and guide based on their own experiences. Coaches, in contrast, focus on drawing out the client's strengths and insights rather than imparting advice.