Monday I wrote a bit about coaching and how I see it as such a supportive resource. I wanted to dive a bit deeper into the many ‘hats’ of health coaching so that you can see just how supportive a nurse coach can be for you.

Maybe you hear the words: ‘needing support’ and think of life-support, weakness, or something that doesn’t really ‘fit’ for you. Here are several coaching ‘hats’ that you might not have thought of before. See if any of them resonate further for you:

• The active listener. When was the last time you had someone really listen to you? And I mean listen. Not interrupt, not get ready with what they want to say, not put their two cents in on what you ‘should’ be doing with your life. Really listen. When you work with a coach you may have a chance to really hear yourself. You may have the opportunity to speak things that you haven’t spoken in decades. You may get to know yourself a bit more. Because when you work with a coach, they (well, I can only speak for myself) don’t talk. I ask you questions. I reflect back to you what I heard you say. I am quiet. I let you hear yourself speak.
• The energizing and upbeat cheerleader. One of the beauties of health coaching, at least the way I’ve learned it and perform it, is that we are always celebrating successes. What did you learn about yourself? How did your challenge teach you a lesson? What went good? What is new and exciting for you? I point out to you all of the little accomplishments. When you want to be your own worst critic, I am there speaking to you about what you did do right, good, or better than you ever have. I am excited about your growth. I love seeing you do well. I am here to cheer you along your path. And it feels so, so good- for both of us!
• The accountability partner. I know, I know. This one isn’t as fun. But it’s absolutely necessary. What happens when the going gets tough? You usually stop going. Or you procrastinate. Or you avoid. Or you give up. Don’t worry about that anymore. When you work with a health and wellness coach like me, I keep you on track. I ask you the tough questions. I find out what is getting in the way. I help you overcome barriers. I am here to move you forward. I am here to help you move yourself forward. We work together through thick and thin and you learn something from every single experience.

Now there are several other ‘hats’ that the health coach wears, many others in fact: from the informative expert to the inspirational motivator, from the perceptive reflector to the inquisitive detective, and so on and so on. Maybe you’ll just have to give it a whirl to see for yourself. Try it out and let yourself see what you think of it.

I’d love to hear from you! Have you used a coach before? What roles did the coach play for you? How did having that support help you in your life change? Leave a comment or question below. Have a healthy day!