Most folks know by now that coaching is, in essence, about change. Change in how we do things, how we lead, interact with others, how we feel, or even how we look at things. But what is all the fuss about this buzzword: transformation? It seems to have become the holy grail that every coach promises their clients nowadays.
All coaching is about change, essentially; however, in my opinion there are certain discerning qualities which render that change transformational.
We can certainly achieve change in specific habits to get fast results. Quick and pragmatic alterations are needed sometimes for a quick fix; but that is what they are, quick fixes of a certain problem. But what clients need are sustainable results . Results that foster client agency over time, and do not encourage dependency or regression.
If you are curious about the difference between regular change achieved through life coaching and transformational coaching, this is an invitation to explore with me 8 ways that make coaching transformational.
1-Transformation is long term, irreversible and sustainable
Transformation has a lasting impact on our life. It is a hard-won-territory that is not easily lost. It is about the irreversibility of the change. It is not about the magnitude. It is about not easily going back to the old ways, and not about the size. That is why most people drop their New Year’s resolutions come spring, as motivation is short-lived. Therefore, a lasting change should stand the test of time. Moreover, transformation is about sustainability. Sustainability means training the client into asking themselves the right questions; and finding their own way, eventually, without procrastination and without the coach.
2-Transformation Can be Small
It does not need to be grand or so big. it is not about magnitude. It can be as simple as hydrating regularly throughout the day. Sometimes it can be even effortless. It is more of an inner journey that we can feel and be with.
3-Transformation is Purposeful
Transformation is intentional and connected to our life purpose. So it is important to distinguish between simple change and transformation. Transformation is aligned with our core values and life purpose. It helps us honor our core values and live by them.
4-Transformation Bypasses Limiting Beliefs and Saboteurs
A good coach evokes transformation by consciously steering the coaching away from saboteur conversations and limiting self-talk. A transformational coach pays attention to the authentic and magnificent human being that is the client. We follow the resonance to make sure that the coaching is authentic and transformational. [1]
5-Transformation lives in resonance and creativity
In order to evoke transformation, the coach creates a space for the client where resonance and creativity can flourish. The coach should encourage the client to be present with the part of themselves that is growing, striving, learning, and reaching for what’s next.
Through acknowledgment and championing, we help the client in feeling known and grown. This is not about the client feeling good about themselves, but about being seen and not judged. [2]
6-Transformation has no end-destination
Unlike change which has a clearly defined beginning and end, in transformation there is no place to reach — this is a lifelong journey; a lifelong process of discovery, learning and love.
7-We Focus on What We Want to Create, Not What We Want to Move Away From
To achieve transformational change we co-create with the clients through exploring with them their world,their thoughts, actions, dreams and visions. When we focus our energy and conscious thought on what we want to create, rather than what we don’t want, our vision expands. More becomes possible. Transformation coaching is about giving conscious attention to where we want to go. Also by paying attention to which part of the client is guiding their thoughts and actions? Their inner Leader or their Saboteurs?
8-Transformation is about Commitment
We ask our client: what are the possibilities that you are committed to? What dreams will you bring into the new you? What is the impact you will make in your own life, in the lives of those you love, in your community? What is the unique contribution that you will make?
These are all powerful questions that we ask in transformation coaching. Additionally, we use tools like the wheel of life, life purpose statement, inner leader and allies, old story and new story, and various visioning exercises. All these tools and methods help bring about transformation for the client, each at their own pace and time.
[1] Source: Co-active Training Institute 2009
[2] Source: Co-active Training Institute 2009