Questions for The Up-And-Coming Coach

What is coaching?

Why do you want to be a coach?

What kind of coach do you want to be?

Now, answering the above questions isn't as easy as it appears, right? It's almost like asking: What is a teacher? Why do you want to be one? And what kind do you want to be? It's hard to answer these questions specifically when the spectrum of options is vast, abundant and complex. Everyone might have a varied definition of 'teacher,' depending on the experiences one has, the idea of that concept changes.

And the thing is, it's okay for definitions to differ. But, where things get sticky is when hoards of professionals blindly breaks into the coaching scene without properly assessing why they want to, how they plan to, and what they will offer. It's often compared to athletic coaching, but the thing is, although there are similarities, there are major differences. The two play in different contexts, and the context of coaching must be considered if one hopes to be helpful, successful and effective in that particular context.

So, in order to help you hone in on what you want to do, I've put together a list of 10 questions. I encourage you to take your time answering these. As I continue to write about coaching, hopefully your answers and ideas will be refined, clarified and guided into one direction you feel confident pursuing. If nothing else, they will allow you to explore your own reasons and thoughts as they relate to this profession.

What characteristics or personal qualities do you believe are necessary to be effective as a coach?

Which of these characteristics or qualities do you have?

Do a little research or use your current knowledge to identify 1-3 coaches you admire. Who are they?

Why do you respect the work they do or resonate with the type of coach they are?

If you became a coaching success, what would you like people to say about your ability as a coach?

What's one thing that you think is holding you back from being a great coach or pursuing this field?

When did your coaching interest begin? What inspired it?

Is there a specific group or population that you would want to coach more than others?

If you have been coached by someone else, what did you enjoy about the way they coached?

If you have not been coached, what has kept you from pursuing this field despite your interest?

I will be writing more articles on this content throughout the next few weeks, so stay tuned.