This initial phase is all about building a strong and trusting relationship. The coach and coachee work together to create a safe, confidential space where open communication can thrive. They define the coaching agreement, which clarifies roles, responsibilities, and the desired outcomes of the partnership. This step sets clear expectations and builds the rapport essential for meaningful progress..

Once a solid foundation is in place, the focus shifts to clarifying what the coachee wants to achieve. The coach uses powerful, open-ended questions to help the individual articulate a specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goal. This transforms a vague desire into a concrete, actionable objective that can be tracked and celebrated.

With a clear goal in mind, the coach facilitates a deep exploration of the coachee’s current situation. This involves understanding their existing challenges, strengths, resources, and any limiting beliefs that may be holding them back. By examining the current reality from multiple angles, the coachee gains a complete and honest picture of their starting point.

This is the creative, brainstorming phase. The coach encourages the coachee to think expansively and generate a wide range of possible solutions and actions without judgment. After exploring these possibilities, the coach helps the coachee formulate a concrete action plan. This plan outlines specific steps, timelines, and accountability measures to move toward the goal.

In the final step, the coachee commits to their action plan and begins to implement it. The coach provides support, encouragement, and helps the coachee anticipate and prepare for potential obstacles. Subsequent coaching sessions often involve reviewing progress, celebrating successes, and making adjustments to the plan as needed, ensuring continuous momentum toward the desired outcome.