Are You Coachable?

By October 27, 2016 July 9th, 2024 Self Management Tips

Last Updated on July 9, 2024 by Dave Schoenbeck

Being coachable is the key to growing and achieving the life you want, personally and professionally. Yet the truth is only some are willing to change or have the drive to progress. In other words, one must possess or build certain attitudes and characteristics to be coachable.

A young businesswoman holds both hands out to her side, suggesting that she is confused

As a coach with years of experience, my coaching prospects must be reflective 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 unnecessary details and need to remember where they should spend their energy. Establishing concrete goals helps prevent you from derailing and motivates you.

2. I am willing to do the work needed.
This is all about trust—the foundation of any successful coaching relationship. You must be willing to do your homework and let me show you how to drive performance. If we can’t build an understanding of trust, it will be tough 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 tired, having an open mindset is very important. Having a coach means exposing you to new experiences and ideas that may be out of your comfort zone. Please look at 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 must devote at least 3 hours of work each week. Keep in mind that this is not a “quick fix” program. It would be best if you were 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 accurate measure of whether you’ve successfully changed and excelled in your coaching program. If you seek a specific outcome just because you think it is trendy or others have recommended it, you may need more time to prepare for a coaching program. You must be personally motivated and want to succeed.

Many people find having a coach a life-changing experience. 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.”

Do you think you’re coachable and want better results from your business? If you want to join my mentoring program, fill out the contact form, and I’ll contact you!

Coach Dave

Dave Schoenbeck
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