Evidence-based Coaching: Where Science Meets Self-Efficacy
When I hired my first coach, I was amazed not only with new levels of self-awareness that I experienced, but also my increased motivation to put some overdue goals into action. I had time with my coach to word-vomit all of my thoughts that I would normally keep in my head (and possibly overthink), we would make sense of those jumbled thoughts, help ME better understand those thoughts (yes, my own thoughts) and we would end with short-term actions connected to more ideal versions of myself. I had more belief in myself and capabilities than ever before. What in the world? How did this work?
I knew this felt different than other things I had tried before. It wasn’t tossing around vague advice like confetti at a party, hoping it sticks. It wasn’t relying on outdated “one-size-fits-all” mantras either. It wasn’t someone telling me what to do and it wasn’t digging into any past traumas. There was no good old pat-on-the-back and a “you got this”. Magic? Sorcery?
So in 2020, I decided to dedicate myself to the practice of coaching, which led me to a yearlong graduate certificate program at Fielding Graduate University in Evidence-based Coaching. It was an extremely self-reflective program, where we not only learned all the foundations of psychology, neuroscience, organizational and human behavior, and practiced coaching skills and techniques…we worked with a coach through the whole program to become better versions of ourselves. Even if I wasn't a professional coach today, it made me a better me.
With Evidence-based Coaching in all its glory, coaches step into the arena with their client, not against them, with skills and tools from research-backed strategies, to navigate unfamiliar territories together, like…
Being recently promoted to leadership and not feeling super confident about it?
Having difficulty navigating a new supervisor or constant change at work?
Wanting to advance your career and not sure why it’s not happening?
Feeling overwhelmed with trying to balance work and life and not sure how to get a sense of calm back?
Imagine you’re inviting friends over for dinner to let them know you’re feeling nervous about that big promotion you just got. Sure, your friends will hype you up and tell you all the good stuff about you with their rosy you-colored glasses. Your coach is a skilled chef, bringing a gourmet dish filled with rich ingredients (research and data in human behavior and behavioral change) and knows just how to mix them for maximum impact. No more flying blind and ending up with six veggie trays for the party. You’re no longer guessing what to do and hoping for the best. You get to take ownership with proven techniques that are tailored to your needs. You turn “I wish” into “I will”.
So, let’s toast to Evidence-based coaching: where science meets self-efficacy. It’s not just coaching; it’s coaching that packs a punch. If you find yourself wondering if a coach might help the unfamiliar territories you’re navigating, book a free 30-minute no-strings-attached coaching session with me today.