Kind regards,
Abbie Martin
Lifestyle Manager

Life Coaching - What is it?
by Rick Mason

You may have heard of Life Coaching but are not really sure what it is and how it works? Firstly lets clarify what it is not. Coaching is not about working with people who are in crisis. People who have serious disorders or are in crisis should see a Psychiatrist or Psychologist for assistance. It is generally not a quick fix to a problem although at times it can be.

The Process
Coaching can incorporate counselling practices but it is generally about clarification, goal setting and action though a co-active collaborative process. Life Coaching is a one to one relationship based on trust and honesty. The client may have goals but with a coach these can be brought to life through action and accountability. Coaches will generally consider a person’s life in a holistic sense. If a person is out of balance in any key area of their life then this can impact on all areas of life. For example, if a client is finding that their work life is a drain and no longer of interest or causing stress, then this can impact on their health and relationships. In essence a Coach can work with a client on any key area of life, which may pertain to; Health, Work, Personal Relationships, Family, Finances, Creativity, Spirituality, Intellectual Growth, Social Life and Contribution to Society.

A client may have a specific area of their life that they wish to address but all areas should initially be assessed to ensure that there are no significant areas that are out of balance. Motivation is often insufficient without momentum to carry a person through to goal completion. A coach can assist in the process of maintaining momentum through regular contact either face to face or by phone. A coach will actively listen and clarify the client’s thinking. They will, at times, confront and challenge to ensure the client achieves the best from themselves. Regular sessions can help individuals sustain action and momentum when the going gets tough, learn from perceived failures, discover inner strengths and resources and strive towards their highest goals.

Who Uses a Coach?
Anyone can use a coach and in the USA and UK the use of Life Coaching has been growing steadily for over 10 years and this trend is now evident in Australia. Executives in both Australia and overseas have been rapidly embracing the concept. This is assisting them at a personal level but also assisting the companies and the people with whom they work.

The Benefits
Coaching assists in clarifying purpose, decision-making, direction, and action planning. Challenges are supported without excessive risk taking. Coaching can be used to plan a person’s life, change poor habits, manage life changing events like divorce, job loss or retirement, commencing a new business venture or starting a new relationship.

Everyone has the potential to benefit from Life Coaching, working to create better life balance, fulfilment and happiness. When our lives are in balance and we have choices around how we manage our lives, we feel free to grow and reach our full potential.

Rick Mason of Goal Quest has worked extensively with people from all walks of life and all ages, in the capacity of career transition counsellor, mediator, personal coach/counsellor, group worker and trainer. He has worked in Vocational Rehabilitation and the Disability sector for over 15 years in SA and NSW. Rick has held a number of management positions, managed his own businesses and worked in sales and marketing for international and medium size companies. He has a BA in Psychology; Post Grad Dip in Group Work & Counselling and a Cert IV in Assessment and Work Place Training. Rick Mason 0416 125 321 rlmason@dodo.com.au