Grab a blanket and a mug: we’re answering listener questions while getting a little buzzed on cozy winter spirits.
Things get deep, a little spicy, and surprisingly "medicinal" as we dive into what happens when a coaching session hits close to home. How do you handle a client whose worldview makes you cringe? Can you coach someone you fundamentally disagree with? We explore the boundary between professional curiosity and personal "hell no’s."
What’s in the Mug?
- Elana: Spiked Hot Cocoa. Heavy on the Bailey’s, sweet, creamy, and definitely not for kids (despite the "Best Dad Ever" mug—don't ask, we don't have children).
- Erin: A "Medicinal" Hot Toddy. Lemon, cinnamon, honey, and a healthy pour of bourbon courtesy of Steve. It tastes like health, but feels like a party.
Why You Should Listen
If you’ve ever sat across from someone (or a Zoom screen) and thought, "Did they really just say that?"—this episode is for you. We pull back the curtain on the "Internal Coach Freakout" and discuss:
- The Humanity Pivot: How to use your own life experiences to open a client's mind without making the session all about you.
- The Abhorrent Perspective Filter: Why being a coach doesn't mean you have to help everyone (especially if they’re writing a TradWife guide to toppling feminism).
- Relational Investigation: How the safest spaces allow for the ugliest thoughts to be examined, questioned, and ultimately transformed.
- The Power of the Pause: Naming the sticky moments in a session to deepen the trust rather than running away from the discomfort.
Key Takeaways
- Conflict of Interest: If you don't want your client to be successful because of their goals/values, you probably shouldn't be their coach.
- The Barometer of Trust: True coaching can't happen if a client feels they have to hide parts of themselves, even the messy parts.
- Curiosity over Reaction: Asking "How old is that belief?" is often more effective than "Why would you say that?"
Connect With Us
Erin Aquin is a Master Certified Life Coach and co-author of the #1 bestseller "Superabound: Live the Life the Universe is Dreaming For You." She provides whole life coaching for business owners, integrating success and personal fulfillment through her unique all-in-one approach.
Learn more at besuperabound.com
Elana McKernan is a Master Certified Life and Creativity Coach who specializes in helping perfectionists create more by treating themselves better. You can check out her free content here and learn more about coaching with her here.
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