How To Prepare For A New Coaching Session

Summary

In this video, Ajit Nawalkha offers valuable advice for new coaches preparing for their first coaching session. He addresses common emotions like nervousness and uncertainty and provides tips on managing these feelings through techniques like deep breathing and grounding exercises. Ajit emphasizes the importance of focusing on four key elements during a session: rapport, objective, coaching, and follow-up. He also reminds coaches to stay grounded in their 'why,' prioritize their clients' outcomes, and stay present. His advice aims to help new coaches navigate the emotional and practical aspects of coaching with confidence.

Takeaways

• 😀 Congratulations on landing your first coaching client! It's a significant achievement in your coaching journey.
• 😀 Acknowledge the emotions that may come up before your first coaching session, like nervousness and anxiety. It's natural when doing something for the first time.
• 😀 Nervousness is a normal reaction, but it can be transformed into a positive force with the right preparation and mindset.
• 😀 Remember that feeling unqualified is a common experience, but you are more than capable if you've invested time in learning the craft of coaching.
• 😀 Emotional regulation is essential for new coaches. Calm your nervous system to operate from a rational, present state during coaching sessions.
• 😀 Use tools like breathing exercises, calming music, or spending time in nature to regulate your emotions before the session.
• 😀 Always remember the four core elements of a coaching session: rapport, objective, coaching, and follow-up or action steps.
• 😀 Keep the coaching session simple by focusing on these four elements, which will make you feel more confident and grounded.
• 😀 Practical tips like visiting the bathroom before the session and having a glass of water nearby can ensure you're comfortable and focused.
• 😀 Focus on your 'why'—the purpose and outcome you're aiming for in your coaching sessions. It will reignite your passion and energy, helping you be present for your clients.

Q & A

What is the first thing to do when preparing for your first coaching session?

The first thing to do is recognize and acknowledge the emotions you may be feeling, such as nervousness or uncertainty, as they are natural when starting something new and meaningful.

Why might someone feel nervous before their first coaching session?

Someone might feel nervous because they are uncertain about what will happen during the session, which can trigger feelings of anxiety or fear. These emotions are common when doing something for the first time.

How can nervousness be channeled positively for a coaching session?

Nervousness can be transformed into a positive force by regulating your emotions and preparing yourself mentally, which will allow you to be more present and perform effectively during the coaching session.

What is the significance of emotional regulation before a coaching session?

Emotional regulation helps calm the nervous system, allowing you to operate from a more rational mindset rather than being overwhelmed by emotions. This makes it easier to engage in meaningful conversations with your client.

What are some methods to calm your nervous system before a coaching session?

Some methods include listening to calming music, practicing deep breathing exercises, walking barefoot in nature to ground yourself, or using meditative or hypnosis tracks to regain confidence.

What are the four key components of any coaching session?

The four key components of any coaching session are: 1) Rapport, 2) Objective, 3) Coaching itself, and 4) Follow-up or action steps.

How does simplifying the coaching session structure help a new coach?

By focusing on just four key elements, a new coach can feel more confident and organized, reducing overwhelm and allowing them to stay present and focused on the outcome of the session.

What are the essential housekeeping tasks to remember before starting a coaching session?

Before the session, make sure to use the bathroom and keep a glass of water nearby, as these simple tasks can help you stay comfortable and avoid distractions during the session.

Why is it important to focus on your 'why' before a coaching session?

Focusing on your 'why' helps remind you of your purpose and the meaningful impact you aim to create through coaching, which re-energizes you and brings you back to a place of clarity and presence.

What should a coach remember about the client during the session?

A coach should always remember that the session is about the client, not about them. The goal is to be genuinely interested in the client's needs and outcomes, and not to focus on being right or showcasing expertise.