Isn’t all coaching transformational?

My answer is well, it’s supposed to be. All coaching is transformational as it aims to help clients achieve meaningful changes in their lives. However, some coaches assert that the term "transformative coaching" refers to a specific approach that emphasizes deeper, more fundamental shifts in a client's identity, beliefs, and worldview.

Gleaning from such coaches and the International Coach Federation, here is how transformational might differ from the general notion of coaching:

1. Degree of Change:
   • General Coaching: While all coaching is about change, transformative coaching focuses on profound, identity-level shifts. It’s about altering the way clients see themselves, their purpose, and their potential, leading to long-lasting and deeply rooted transformations.
   • Transformative Coaching: Incorporate relaxation techniques into your daily routine, such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, mindfulness meditation, or visualization. Practice these techniques regularly so you can use them effectively when you feel anxious.
2. Scope of Focus:
   • General Coaching: The focus may often be on achieving specific, measurable outcomes such as career advancement, improved performance, or better work-life balance.
   • Transformative Coaching: This approach looks beyond immediate goals to explore and shift underlying beliefs, values, and self-perception. The coach works with the client to redefine their sense of self and how they interact with the world.
3. Nature of the Process:
   • General Coaching: The coaching process may involve setting goals, creating action plans, and providing accountability. While this can lead to transformational results, the process may be more focused on problem-solving and goal attainment.
   • Transformative Coaching: The process is more reflective and introspective. It involves deep exploration of the client’s inner world, often leading to significant paradigm shifts. The coaching sessions might delve into topics like personal identity, life purpose, and existential questions.
4. Time Frame:
   • General Coaching: Changes may happen over a shorter time frame, focusing on achieving specific objectives within a defined period.
   • Transformative Coaching: The changes tend to be more gradual and long-lasting, as the client works through deeper issues and integrates new beliefs and perspectives into their life over time

Transformative coaching is about facilitating profound, meaningful change that redefines a client's life from the inside out. It’s not just about achieving external goals but about transforming the internal landscape of the client. And this is the coaching I choose to do – whether I use the term transformational or not.