MENU

Today, I’m diving into the world of ICF Coaching to give you a full explanation of what it is, how it works, and the amazing benefits it can bring to your life. If you’ve ever wondered what ICF Coaching is all about, keep reading!

what is icf coaching?

The International Coaching Federation (ICF) is the GOLD STANDARD for coaching worldwide. It sets the benchmark for professional coaching, ensuring coaches adhere to strict ethical guidelines and maintain high competency levels. ICF Coaching isn’t just about giving advice or mentoring; it’s a partnership where the coach helps you unlock your potential, achieve your goals, and transform your life.

how does icf coaching work?

• Clarity or Discovery Call: The journey begins with a clarity or discovery call where you and your coach delve into your goals, challenges, and aspirations. This session, often the first step, holds immense significance as it sets the tone for your coaching journey. It’s an opportunity for you to see if there’s a good fit between you and the coach, and for your coach to gain insight into your needs and aspirations.
• Goal Setting: Together, you set clear, achievable goals. These could be related to your career, personal development, relationships, or any area where you seek improvement.
• Action Plan: Your coach helps you create a step-by-step action plan to reach your goals. This plan is tailored to your unique situation and needs.
• Regular Sessions: Coaching sessions are typically held weekly or bi-weekly. During these sessions, you’ll discuss progress, address challenges, and adjust your action plan as needed.
• Accountability and Support: Your coach holds you accountable, providing support and encouragement as you work towards your goals. They help you stay focused and motivated, even when the going gets tough.

benefits of icf coaching?

• Clarity and Direction: ICF Coaching helps you gain clarity about what you really want in life and how to get there. It provides a sense of direction and purpose.
• Improved Performance: Whether in your career, personal life, or relationships, coaching can significantly improve your performance by helping you develop new skills and strategies.
• Enhanced Self-Awareness: Coaching fosters greater self-awareness, helping you understand your strengths, weaknesses, and patterns of behaviour. This insight is crucial for personal growth.
• Increased Confidence: As you achieve your goals and overcome challenges, your confidence grows. You’ll start believing in your ability to make things happen.
• Better Work-Life Balance: Coaching can help you create a healthier work-life balance by setting boundaries, prioritising tasks, and managing stress effectively.
• Support During Transitions: Whether you’re changing careers, starting a new relationship, or navigating a major life change, coaching provides the support you need to make these transitions smoothly.

my journey with icf coaching

As someone who has walked the path of self-discovery and transformation, I can’t emphasise enough the impact ICF Coaching has had on my life. My journey began at a time when I felt utterly lost and broken, in debt and struggling with the aftermath of narcissistic abuse. It was a period of darkness that seemed never-ending.

I stumbled upon ICF Coaching when I was on my self-discovery stage and my then current business as a Tech VA was thriving. My new partner and I thought that I might benefit from working with a coach to help me navigate my way through what life was at the time. Sceptical yet desperate for change, I decided to give it a try. That decision was a turning point.

My first session with an ICF coach was eye-opening. For the first time in a long while, I felt heard and understood. My coach helped me articulate my feelings and clarify my goals, which initially felt like a monumental task however it gave me something that felt like it was mine. We started by setting small, manageable goals – things that seemed almost trivial but were significant steps toward reclaiming my life.

As we progressed, I noticed subtle yet powerful changes within myself. I started to recognize my strengths and value, something that had been eroded by years of emotional abuse. Each coaching session provided me with new insights and strategies to cope with my challenges. I began to see possibilities where there had once been only obstacles. One of the most profound shifts was in my confidence. With my coach’s unwavering support and guidance, I started to believe in myself again. I learned to set healthy boundaries, prioritise self-care, and embrace my journey toward healing and growth.

Over time, the goals I set became more ambitious. I went from simply wanting to get through each day to aspiring to help other women who were in similar situations. I decided to pursue certifications in trauma-informed coaching and positive psychology, areas where I felt I could make a real difference, which led on to certifications in Narcissistic Abuse Specialism and Brainspotting Therapy. 

With each certification and training session, my passion for coaching grew. I saw the profound impact it had on my life and wanted to offer the same support to others. Today, as an Accredited ICF Somatic Trauma Informed Coach, I dedicate my life to helping women rebuild their lives after trauma, just as I did.

Even now, I continue to work with my coach. The journey of self-discovery and growth never truly ends. Each session is an opportunity to learn, grow, and evolve. Coaching has become an integral part of my life, a constant source of support and inspiration.

You might be wondering why ICF Coaching matters? The structure and ethics of ICF Coaching ensure that every session is conducted with professionalism and genuine care. The focus is always on the client’s needs, goals, and well-being. This client-centred approach was crucial in my recovery and growth, providing a safe space to explore my potential.

ICF Coaching didn’t just help me survive; it helped me thrive. It transformed my life, giving me the tools and confidence to rebuild and create a life filled with purpose and joy. If you’re struggling or seeking change, ICF Coaching can offer you the same support and empowerment it gave me. Remember, it’s never too late to rewrite your story and live the life you deserve.

final thoughts

Lastly, I really want to reiterate that ICF Coaching is a powerful tool for anyone looking to make positive changes in their life. It’s about unlocking your potential, achieving your dreams, and becoming the best version of yourself. If you’re ready to take the next step, reach out to an ICF-accredited coach and start your journey today, and ensure that when you meet for the first time that your personalities ‘click’ to get the full experience you are hoping for! 

You are welcome to have a look at how I work and complete the form for Coaching.

Remember, we only have one life, and you deserve to live it to the fullest!

With love and strength,

Lee-Anne x

ALL LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS BLOG:

Ready for Group or 1:1 support? Work With Me