The Power of Self-Work: The Real Secret to Becoming a Life-Changing Coach

David McThomas
Coaching Conversations
2 min readFeb 27, 2024

Becoming a life-changing coach is not just about having the right training or certifications. It requires a commitment to personal growth and self-improvement. As a coach, you are responsible for helping others achieve their goals and reach their full potential. But before you can help others, you must first work on yourself.

Develop Self-Awareness

One of the most important things you can do as a coach is to develop self-awareness. Self-awareness means having a clear understanding of your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours, and how they impact your coaching. It also means being aware of your own biases and limitations and working to overcome them.

To develop self-awareness:

  • Take a deep look at your own beliefs, values, and behaviours.
  • Seek feedback from colleagues, mentors, or clients.
  • Be open to feedback and willing to make changes when necessary.

Practice What You Preach

Another key element of being a life-changing coach is to practice what you preach. This means living your own life in a way that reflects the principles and values you teach your clients.

To practice what you preach:

  • Set an example for the behaviour you want to see in others.
  • Acknowledge that you are not perfect and work on personal growth.
  • Build credibility with your clients by living up to the same standards you set for them.

Continue Learning and Growing

Finally, being a life-changing coach means continuing to learn and grow. This means seeking out new knowledge and skills and being open to new ideas and perspectives.

To continue learning and growing:

  • Stay curious and be willing to ask questions.
  • Challenge your assumptions and explore new ideas.
  • Be open to feedback and constructive criticism.

In conclusion, becoming a life-changing coach is not just about having the right techniques or tools. It requires a commitment to personal growth and self-improvement. By starting with yourself, developing self-awareness, practising what you preach, and continuing to learn and grow, you can become the kind of coach who truly makes a difference in the lives of your clients.

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David McThomas
Coaching Conversations

Dedicated to unlocking Human and Organisational potential, through Professional Coaching and Powerful Breakthrough Questions