“Life coaches empower you to unlock your potential and achieve personal and professional goals by uncovering solutions through inner exploration in a way that’s unique to you,” said Honey Gudh, an ICF-MCC credentialed leadership coach, head coach trainer, and co-founder of Cocoweave Coaching International. This is possibly the simplest explanation of life coaching, a practice that began some four decades back but gained prominence in the last few years.
Ever wondered why the demand for life coaching is on the rise and how one can become a life coach?
The confusion around becoming a life coach often stems from the fact that no exceptional educational qualifications are required, making it seem like anyone can step into the role. However, Gudh contended that this profession is best suited for individuals who possess a genuine desire to contribute, a curiosity to explore life’s deeper meanings, and a strong growth mindset. “These are the traits that make someone truly eligible to thrive in this industry,” he said.
Where is the need?
Life coaches help clients align with their life or career goals, offering guidance on business, personal growth, and well-being. “They focus on mindfulness and meditation, viewing clients as healthy individuals striving for growth,” says Dr Rahul Rai Kakkar, consultant psychiatrist at Narayana Hospital, Gurugram.
With social media platforms, life coaches are widely available and accessible now.
But wait…How are they different from psychologists?
While life coaches and psychologists work towards the same goal of improving lives, their methods differ. “Psychologists are trained professionals with advanced degrees in psychology and licensed to diagnose and treat mental health conditions,” said Navneet Kaur, transformational and communication coach. Life coaches, though trained by coaching organisations, don’t require licensing, said Dr Kakkar.
Gudh told indianexpress.com that psychologists often focus on understanding issues rooted in the past using therapeutic techniques to address emotional and psychological concerns. “In some cases, individuals may need support from a psychiatrist, a professional trained to deal with brain anatomy and prescribe medication if and when necessary,” he said.
Life coaches, on the other hand, work with “fully-functional individuals” who feel stuck or believe they’re not reaching their full potential, according to Gudh. Life coaches have an orientation towards personal development and goal achievement, Kaur said, which are often more focused on future rather than past traumas. “They are not therapists or providers of therapy or treatment of any kind of psychological disorder, even if they use motivational techniques,” said Kaur.
Skills and training
Life coaches are trained in skills like active listening, effective questioning, empathy, goal setting, and accountability strategies. However, formal education isn’t required, though “certification in coaching is supposed to be an important step forward and provides one with so much credibility within the field,” said Kaur.
For those aspiring to become life coaches, Gudh apprised us that the International Coaching Federation (ICF) offers a formal training and certification pathway. “This structured education system helps aspiring coaches develop the skills necessary for professional practice. The ICF certification process includes three levels: Level 1 prepares you for the Associate Certified Coach (ACC) credential, Level 2 is aimed at becoming a Professional Certified Coach (PCC), and Level 3 focuses on Master Coach certification. Completing these levels equips you with the knowledge and training to practice as a licensed and professional coach,” he said.
What’s the difference between a mental health professional and a life coach? (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)
How much do life coaches and mental health professionals earn?
Dr Kakkar said that psychologists generally earn more than life coaches due to their advanced education and licensing, often working in clinical or academic settings. “On the other hand, life coaches focus on personal development and goal-setting, with earnings varying based on their client base, experience, and reputation,” said Dr Kakkar.
Psychologists typically earn between Rs 4 lakh to Rs 10 lakh per year. Experienced ones make over Rs 12 lakh. “Life coaches usually earn around Rs 2.5 lakhs to Rs 6.5 lakh, though top coaches can make Rs 8 lakh or more. Psychologists generally have more stable incomes due to formal training, while life coaches’ earnings vary with experience and reputation,” said Dr Kakkar.
Steps to become a life coach
Here’s a guide from Kaur to become a life coach:
Self-assessment: Individuals interested in coaching should assess their strengths, experiences, and passion for helping others. “Strong communication skills, empathy, and a positive mindset are essential traits for effective coaching,” said Kaur.
Education and training: A formal degree is not necessary but holding an accreditation will boost credibility. “They mostly cover coaching techniques, ethics, communications, and goal setting,” said Kaur.
Practice: Practice is necessary as the efficiency of coaching would best be obtained with experience. Aspiring coaches can just start by offering their services to friends or volunteering gradually until skills and confidence build up.
Niche: Developing a niche practice, like career coaching, wellness coaching or relationship coaching enables individual coaches to stand out in the crowd.
Marketing: Through a website and social networking sites, coaches can now connect with clients directly. “Networking with professional practitioners in the specific domain likewise opens up access to referral sources,” said Kaur.
When should one consider these services?
If you’re dealing with deep emotional issues or mental health conditions like depression or OCD, a psychologist or psychiatrist is necessary. However, if you’re focused on achieving life goals, improving career prospects, or boosting confidence, a life coach might be more suitable. “Life coaches are generally more accessible and affordable, while psychologists can be more expensive. Ultimately, choose someone who listens and makes you feel confident,” said Dr Kakkar.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
Read More: What makes life coaches different from mental health professionals?
