Arjun, a manager at a tech firm, had been facing challenges with his team’s performance. Frustrated by the situation he finally decided to meet with Vishnu, a Leadership Coach, hoping for a quick solution.
Arjun: “Vishnu, I have a problem. My team is not performing as expected. Tell me exactly what I should do to fix this.”
Vishnu: “Think of it this way, would you rather have someone who simply fixes the issue for you, or a guide who helps you navigate the road ahead so you can find the best path forward?”
Arjun (confused): “Are you not supposed to give me the right strategy to deal with this?”
Vishnu: “Think of me like a GPS, you will drive the car and I will help you navigate the best route to your destination. As we go along, you will gain clarity which will help you find the solution to deal with the situation through the journey.”
The assumption that a coach is there to provide direct solutions is a common misconception. Coaching is about empowering individuals to uncover their answers, refine their thinking, and unlock their full potential. As Coaching gains momentum in leadership and business, it is essential to clear up some of the myths around it.
Myth 1: Coaching is a Sign of Incompetency
Many people assume that seeking coaching is a sign of struggle or failure. It is often viewed as something only meant for those who are stuck and lost. Some even fear that admitting to having a coach makes them look incompetent.
Reality: Seeking coaching is about strength, growth and unlocking potential. The most successful professionals, athletes, and leaders invest in coaching because they are committed to continuous improvement. Coaching provides a safe and structured space to gain new perspectives.
Myth 2: Coaching Provides Immediate Solutions
Many people walk into a coaching session expecting quick-fix solutions and ready-made strategies. They assume a coach will hand them the perfect answer just like a consultant or an advisor would.
Reality: Coaching is about facilitating individuals uncover their answers on their own by asking them powerful questions. As they say, nobody listens like a coach, a coach facilitates deep self-introspective discussions and guides individuals toward meaningful, long-term transformation. The process takes time, effort, and reflection, but the results are sustainable and empowering. Real change is made step by step.
Myth 3: Coaching Is Only for Struggling Leaders
Some believe that coaching is only for leaders struggling with performance issues or facing major setbacks.
Reality: The truth is, that coaching is for every leader, regardless of their success level. The most accomplished leaders turn to coaching to broaden their perspectives and to deal with the situation.
Myth 4. Coaching is the Same for Everyone
Some believe coaching is a one-size-fits-all approach. They believe coaches follow a fixed script, without considering individual circumstances.
Reality: It is a deeply personalised experience. Every individual has unique goals, challenges, and strengths and a coach tailors their approach accordingly just like a personal trainer adjusts workouts to fit different fitness levels, a coach adapts their methods to align with the coachee’s aspirations and troubleshoots to ensure real impact.
Myth 5: Coaching Is Something Done “To” Others
Many think coaching is a top-down process where a coach tells the client what to do like a teacher giving instructions. This assumption creates the perception that coaching is about control rather than collaboration.
Reality: True coaching is a partnership. The best coaching relationships are built on mutual trust, respect, and shared ideas. The most powerful insights come when the coach and the coachee actively contribute, making the conversation an empowering exchange. You can use coaching with peers and friends to build meaningful dialogue.
Myth 6: Coaching Is Only About Asking Questions
Some believe coaching is just about asking a series of questions and waiting for the client to figure everything out on their own. This assumption makes coaching seem like a passive exercise rather than an interactive process.
Reality: Asking the right questions is a key element and is much more than that. It also involves offering feedback and sharing observations. A skilled coach knows when to listen when to challenge, and when to provide perspectives that help unlock new ways of thinking. Coaching is an active, engaging process that helps individuals navigate their journey with clarity and confidence.
They say that growth begins where comfort ends, and coaching is the bridge that helps you cross that gap. Coaching is about unlocking the full potential within you to find your answers. A Coach steers the ship for you ensuring you reach your destination with clarity, and the ability to navigate future journeys on your own.