A good part of the challenges that coaching addresses has to do with changing the way people perceive themselves. And, although there are many forms of dissatisfaction and emotional discomfort that have causes beyond the control of the individual, in the field of personal development and self-realization, most of them are linked to how we value ourselves and how we project our identity into the future, holding on to beliefs about how our lives should be and what we are capable or unable to achieve.
That’s why, one of the fundamental pillars of coaching is self-discovery, a process that involves questioning what we think we know about our “I”. In fact, this explains why the most effective training courses to become a professional coach through training programs are those that delve into self-discovery, making the coaches themselves go through an experience similar to that which their clients will go through.
Characteristics of self-discovery through coaching
These are the principles that define the process of self-discovery through coaching experiences.
1. No one knows themselves completely
Coaching works from the idea that We all face serious limitations when trying to know our own identity and way of experiencing life. This means that we are all subject to biases that lead us to sometimes have very optimistic or pessimistic views about our capabilities. These limitations and biases often make it difficult to fully connect with who we are and what we are capable of achieving.
2. The influence of the social in the construction of the Self
Many philosophies assume the idea that the individual exists first, and society exists second. For coaching, It is impossible to separate the individual from the social context in which he lives ; Furthermore, the way in which people “learn” to perceive and value themselves is mediated by the relationships they maintain with others.
3. Rethink our beliefs to be able to move forward
In coaching processes, it is common to question and seek a new perspective on the challenges that arise, even going so far as to question the initial motivations that led us to embark on the coaching process Taking a step back and objectively and calmly examining the true motives behind our beliefs, judgments and motivations is essential. Therefore, reframing our beliefs and assumptions gives us the opportunity to find a new path.
4. The importance of action and experimentation
Self-discovery through coaching is not limited to reflection and awareness, but also involves action and experimentation. The coach encourages the client to take concrete steps toward achieving their goals and to try new ways of acting and thinking. Through experimentation and constant feedback, the individual discovers what strategies and approaches work best for him, strengthening his self-confidence and expanding his knowledge about himself.
How do you work through coaching to enhance people’s self-knowledge?
These are the main functions of the coach help people know themselves better:
Do you want to train in residential coaching?
If you are interested in learning the fundamentals and practical applications of coaching, the Intensive Residential Coaching Course offered by the Center for Coaching Studies is what you are looking for. With an intensive 9-day format and taught in a privileged environment full of nature (in the Sierra de Madrid), this course is based on a training methodology with more than a decade of experience and offers small groups and the support of a certified coach. PCC or MCC by the ICF. It has two formats, summer and winter, and is certified as Level 1 by the International Coaching Federation (ICF).
