"The International Coaching Federation (ICF) defines coaching as partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximise their personal and professional potential, which is particularly important in today's uncertain and complex environment." (ICF, 2020)
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Coaching focuses on the 'here and now' rather than on the distant past or future.
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The coaching relationship is based on mutual respect, equality and trust which enables and empowers the client to explore and move freely.
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The coach is helping the individual to improve their own thinking and performance.
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The client sets the agenda and is seen as the expert in finding solutions to the challenges they are facing; the coach helps the client elicit answers and actions.
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The coach supports the client by holding them accountable to their self-directed actions.
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Coaching assists a client to bridge the gap between where they are now and where they would like to be, far more effectively than if they worked alone.
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Coaching is not advice giving, mentoring, counselling or therapy.