Essential Principles of Coaching II (Perspective, Risk, Patience, Confidentiality)

Perspective: Expanding Horizons

A crucial principle in the practice of coaching is the fostering of perspective. Cultivating the ability to understand and appreciate other points of view is considered paramount.

This skill is essential for approaching difficulties and challenges with greater creativity and effectiveness.

Often, the coachee may find himself trapped in a limited view of his situation, which restricts his options and solutions.

The coach, by maintaining a neutral and external position, can help the client explore different angles and consider alternative interpretations.

The key tool to facilitate this broadening of perspective is questions.

Through open and reflective questions, the coach invites the coachee to question his or her assumptions, to put him or herself in the shoes of others or to imagine different scenarios, thus opening up new avenues of thought and action that were not previously visible.

This ability to see the same situation from multiple angles enriches the process and enhances the search for innovative solutions.

Risk: Accepting Uncertainty

Coaching, like any process of change and human development, carries an inherent element of risk.

It is essential to recognize that there is always the possibility that a given process may have unintended consequences.

Despite the best intentions and careful planning, outcomes may arise that are not directly related to what was initially sought.

Life and human behavior are not entirely predictable, and the path to a goal may present unexpected twists and turns. Being clear that this risk exists is very important.

It helps not to generate erroneous or unrealistic expectations regarding the infallibility of the coaching process.

Accepting this uncertainty allows both coach and coachee to approach the process with a more flexible and resilient mindset, prepared to adjust course if necessary and learn from, rather than be discouraged by, unexpected detours.

Patience: Respecting Individual Pace

Patience is an indispensable virtue that the coach needs to develop and cultivate in his or her practice.

Because each coachee is unique, the coach will need to work with clients who are very different from one another, each with his or her own personality, learning style and totally disparate rates of progress.

Some clients may progress quickly, while others will need more time to integrate learning, overcome resistance or implement change.

It is crucial to understand that in coaching, the pace is always set by the client. The coach must adapt to this individual pace, avoiding pushing or accelerating the process beyond the coachee's capacity or willingness.

Patience allows for the creation of a safe space where the client can explore at his or her own pace, without feeling judged or rushed, which is fundamental for deep and sustainable learning.

Confidentiality: The Cornerstone of Trust

Finally, confidentiality stands as the most basic and fundamental principle of coaching.

It states that absolutely all information that is shared or generated during the coaching process with a client is completely confidential.

This information includes conversations, notes, exercises, personal data and any other details relating to the coachee and his or her situation.

Under no circumstances should this information be shared with third parties.

The only exception to this rule is if there is express written authorization from the client to do so.

This unwavering commitment to confidentiality is the cornerstone upon which trust is built in the coach-coachee relationship, allowing the client to feel safe to explore sensitive and personal issues without fear of judgment or disclosure.

Summary

The coach should encourage perspective, the ability to see and value other points of view, through open-ended questions. This helps the coachee to question assumptions and explore different angles, opening up new avenues of action.

It is essential to recognize that the process of change carries an inherent element of risk and uncertainty. Accepting that unintended consequences may arise avoids unrealistic expectations and fosters a resilient mindset.

Patience is indispensable for the coach, respecting the individual pace of each coachee as he or she moves forward. Confidentiality is the most basic and fundamental principle, without exception, to build trust.