A 46-year-old commercial real estate broker wants to turn her passion for watercolors into a profitable enterprise. A 38-year-old computer technology consultant wants to expand her business. A 53-year-old investment advisor is searching for more work-life balance so she can carve out the time to write the novel that’s been marinating in her mind for several years.

How do these women turn their dreams into reality? A life coach. Since the early 1990′s, life coaches have been supporting clients through transitional phases – changing careers, expanding a business, relocating, tackling projects, creating work-life balance – and achieving specific personal or career goals.

“A coach helps clients strive for and accomplish more than they would have done on their own,” says Leslie Fiorenzo, a business coach and owner of Invest In People LLC. “We provide the tools, support, and structure so they can produce quicker results.”

Unlike psychologists, therapists, or counselors, who focus on past issues, emotional trauma or abuse, a coach is focused on outcome. A coach will hold you accountable to your goals and keep you on track.

“Coaches provide a fresh viewpoint and reinforce the belief that the client can accomplish their goals,” says Yvonne Prowant whose business Intentional Leadership LLC offers strategic planning and time management training. “It’s like having someone in your corner, cheering you on.”

Coaching is typically done over the telephone with email support, but it can also be offered in person one-on-one or in a small group setting. Some coaches provide a set “curriculum” of materials that include extensive and professionally produced assessments while others have developed their own materials based on individual client need.

When looking for a coach, it’s important to find someone that you connect with and feel comfortable with, someone that you trust and believe instinctively understands your unique situation and goals. Interview several until you find one that is the right fit for you.

Coaching relationships can last for a few months or a year or more, depending on your needs. Most coaches, however, are eager to help you achieve your goals and not keep you dependent on them. You can expect to pay anywhere from $300 per month for weekly or bi-weekly sessions to several thousand dollars for a pre-designed package that includes a course curriculum and support materials.

To attain the highest benefit from working with a coach, be prepared to work hard and be fully committed to the process. “If you have the courage to be honest in your self-exploration and communications with your coach,” says Fiorenzo, “you’ll be amazed at the extraordinary life you’ll create by achieving goals that are meaningful and significant for you.”

Action Steps:

  1. Ask your friends and colleagues who they have worked with in a coaching relationship. What did they like or dislike about working with this individual? Would they recommend them to you? If so, what is this particular coach’s specialty?
  2. Is there a friend who you trust that would be willing to meet with you weekly or bi-weekly in a coaching relationship? (You can coach each other!) This must be someone who will ask you the tough questions – compelling, thought-provoking questions that guide you to your own solutions – and hold you accountable to your goals. Select someone with similar drive and ambition to yours. While it’s not necessary for this person to have the same goal as yours, a commitment to the process is crucial.
  3. Form a “mastermind group” with other women who are on a similar path as yours. Set up a schedule and plan to meet together regularly to brainstorm about specific issues. Before each session, be clear about what you hope to accomplish and give everyone an opportunity to share and receive feedback.

No matter which of these options you choose, surround yourself with people who will remind you that you’re capable and encourage you to “go for it.”

Copyright ©2011 Path Partners.com