Dave Schoenbeck — October 27, 2016 Follow @daveschoenbeckBeing coachable is the key to growing and achieving the life you want, both personally and professionally. Yet the truth is not everyone is willing to change or has the drive to progress. In other words, one needs to either possess or build certain attitudes and characteristics in order to be coachable.
As a coach with years of experience, it is very important that my coaching prospects are introspective about their readiness before contacting me for a mentoring program. Here are some commitments I ask them to think through:
Being Coachable Means…
1. I am ready to set and accomplish my goals.
Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, “What I need is someone who will make me do what I am capable of doing.” Unfortunately, most business people don’t have formal written and actionable goals. As a result, they tend to get lost in the unnecessary details and forget where they should really spend their energy. Establishing concrete goals not only helps prevent you from derailing, but also motivates you.
2. I am willing to do the work needed.
This is all about trust – the foundation of any successful coaching relationship. It is crucial that you’re willing to do your homework and let me show you the way to drive performance. If we can’t build an understanding of trust, it will be very hard for both parties to move forward.
3. I am ready to grow no matter which obstacles are waiting ahead.
Once coaching begins, changes, irregular occurrences, and daily whirlwinds are inevitable. You must be willing to go through all sorts of distractions and keep your focus intact.
4. I am willing to try new things.
Even though you may have tried new things in the past and, as a result, may have become a bit jaded, having an open mindset is very important. Having a coach means you will be exposed to new experiences and ideas that may be out of your comfort zone. Consider your opportunity to explore and learn about your business from a different point of view.
5. I am willing to be truthful to myself and my coach.
This is a no-excuse, no-victim program. Be honest, even though the truth can hurt sometimes. Remember that going all-in is the only way I can help you analyze and evaluate your situation and offer constructive feedback so that you can transform and improve.
6. I am ready to invest my time and resources.
Coaching programs are task-based – you need to devote at least 3 hours of work each week. Keep in mind that this is not a “quick fix” program. You should be willing to invest your time and effort in strategies that lead to long-term growth.
7. I want to achieve measurable results.
The final performance is the only real measure of whether you’ve successfully changed and excelled from your coaching program. If you are seeking a certain outcome just because you think it is trendy or because others have recommended it, you may not be ready for a coaching program. You must be personally motivated and want to succeed.
Having a coach is a life-changing experience for many people. Being coachable is the first step to beginning the journey. By asking yourself if you’re ready, you can start down the path of positive change for yourself and your business. I love the quote, “if you always do what you always did, you will always get what you always got.”
Think you’re coachable and want better results from your business? If you’re interested in joining my mentoring program, fill out the contact form and I’ll be in touch!
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