What does a life coach do and why should you contact one?
Today, more and more people are visiting the life coach specialistin different life situations. But what exactly do these professionals do, and when should we turn to them? This detailed article will answer most of the important questions.
The role of the life coach in modern society
A life coach is a professional facilitator who supports individuals in achieving their goals and personal development.
Statistics on the effectiveness of coaching
According to the International Coach Federation (ICF) 2023 survey:
TerületJavulás mértéke:* Confidence 80%
* Relationship quality 73%
* Workstation power 70%
* Stress management 68%
* Decision-making capability 65%
Main areas of activity of a life coach
1. Career planning and professional development
- Defining career goals
- Skills development
- Work-life balance
- Developing leadership skills
2. Increase personal effectiveness
- Time management techniques
- Setting priorities
- Improving productivity
- Changing habits
3. Developing relationship skills
- Improving communication skills
- Conflict management techniques
- Developing emotional intelligence
- Dealing with relationship problems
When should you consult a life coach?
The help of a life coach can be particularly useful in the following situations:
- During a career change "45% of clients consult life coaching professionals for career change" - points out the Hungarian Coaching Association's report 2024.
- Decision-making situations When faced with big decisions, a life coach specialist can help you to see clearly and make a considered decision.
- Managing changes When life changes (moving, marriage, divorce), the life coach specialist provides support in managing the transition.
The life coaching process
First meeting and goal setting
In the first session, the life coach assesses the client's current situation and goals. "This is the most important stage, as this is where we lay the foundation for our work together," explains János Szabó, a practising life coach.
Regular consultations
Meetings usually take place on a weekly or fortnightly basis. A typical coaching session will last between 6 and 12 sessions, but this will always be determined by individual needs.
Tracking results
The life coach will monitor progress and adjust the strategy if necessary.
Success stories from life coaching
"After three months of coaching, I finally dared to make a change and started my own business. The life coach specialist helped me realise my potential." - Petra N., 34-year-old entrepreneur
"Coaching helped me to restore my work-life balance. I now manage my time and energy more consciously." - Tamás K., 42-year-old manager
Qualifications and qualifications of a life coach
Professional requirements:
- University coach qualification
- Completion of accredited coach training
- Continuous professional development
- Supervision
- Compliance with the Code of Ethics
Classification levels based on, for example, ICF ratings:
- Associate Certified Coach (ACC)
- Professional Certified Coach (PCC)
- Master Certified Coach (MCC)
How to choose a life coach?
Important considerations in the choice:
- Simply ask the Coach what coaching qualifications, qualifications and background you have, what type of coaching area you specialise in.
- Qualifications and experience Check the coach's qualifications and references. For example, in the case of a university coach with a degree, you can check by degree or diploma number. Among other things, the Hungarian Coaching Association's register can help you find out who is registered as a coach (it's still a good idea to check).
- Personal compatibility During the first meeting, observe how comfortable you feel with each other in the conversation.
- Specialisation Choose a life coach who is skilled in the areas that matter to you.
- Use the coachfinder website.
- Or just simply contact us CoachLab-Contact us and we will help.
The return on investment of life coaching
The cost of coaching, the price of a life coach in Hungary in general between 20.000-60.000 Ft/hour moves. Of course, this depends on a lot of things, some of which have been explained above. The return on investment is illustrated by the following figures:
- Clients 85%-a significant improvement
- 78% report better performance at work
- 72% feel an improvement in their relationships
- 68% earns a higher salary
On the road to personal development
During the coaching process, it is particularly important to practice regular self-reflection and mindful presence. Between consultations, it is worth keeping a diary of insights, lessons learned and results achieved. This will help us to understand our own functioning more deeply and to work more effectively on achieving our goals.
Modern technology for development
In the digital age, there are now a wide range of online tools and apps to support personal development. These include goal-tracking apps, meditation programmes and online diaries. These can be a useful complement to face-to-face consultations, but should not replace direct contact and work with a professional.
A holistic approach in practice
In personal development, it is important to consider all areas of our lives. Physical health, mental well-being, quality of relationships and career progression are all interlinked. Modern counselling therefore takes an integrative approach to the development of the individual, taking into account the whole life situation and all the factors that influence it.
Common misconceptions about life coaching
Misconception 1: "A life coach is a specialist giving advice"
Reality: the coach does not give direct advice, but helps you find your own solutions.
Misconception 2: "Only problem people need a coach"
Reality: coaching is also a tool for successful people who want to improve.
Practical tips to maximise the coaching process
- Be open and honest Coaching can only be effective if you share your thoughts and feelings honestly.
- Do your homework The coaching between tasks will help you to develop.
- Document the process Keep a diary of your progress and insights.
Famous people who have sought help from a life coach
Coaching is not just for ordinary people. Many world-famous people have turned to life coaches during their careers. Bill Gates, the founder of Microsoft, regularly works with coaching professionals to improve his leadership skills and manage his philanthropic activities more effectively. In an interview, Leonardo DiCaprio said that his life coach helped him to cope with the stress of fame and to find a balance between his career and his personal life.
Tennis legend Serena Williams has spoken openly about how a life coach has helped her mentally prepare for competitions and balance family life. Hugh Jackman also works regularly with a coaching professional to help him prepare for roles and balance his career and personal life. Oprah Winfrey not only uses the services of coaches, but is herself a qualified life coach and often stresses the importance of personal development. Former Google CEO Eric Schmidt said, "Everyone needs a coach. It doesn't matter who you are, an outside eye can always help you to be even better."
Summary
A life coach can be a valuable partner in your personal and professional development. By choosing the right coach and actively participating, you can make significant positive changes in different areas of your life.
Further information and resources
- Hungarian Coaching Association website
- Coach Magazine
- Coach Info
- CoachBp
- Coaching professional journals and publications e.g.: FATMO Magazine
Concluding thoughts
The working with a life coach an investment in yourself and your future. With professional support, you can achieve your goals faster and more effectively, while developing your self-awareness and problem-solving skills.
