Starting a career as a life coach can seem straightforward. Get certified, start booking clients, and you’re on your way. But the reality is that building a sustainable career in coaching requires dedication, patience, and self-awareness. Coaching, like any profession, isn’t for everyone. So how do you know if it’s the right path for you?
At CTEDU, we guide aspiring coaches every day. Below are eight key questions to consider before taking the plunge into a career in life coaching.
1. Are You Truly Passionate About Coaching?
Why do you want to pursue life coach training? This is one of the most crucial questions you must answer before embarking on this journey. Some aspiring coaches are drawn to the profession because they love helping others, while others see it as a flexible career with financial potential.
Passion is the driving force that will sustain you when the journey gets tough. If coaching excites you – if the thought of working one-on-one with people to help them unlock their potential brings you joy — you may be on the right track. But if you’re primarily motivated by financial gain or an escape from a current career rut, it’s worth reconsidering whether coaching aligns with your long-term goals.
To explore your passion for coaching, ask yourself:
- Do I naturally find myself in a mentorship or advisory role?
- Do I enjoy listening to people and helping them gain clarity?
- Am I energized by the idea of personal development for both myself and others?
2. Is Now the Right Time?
Life is complex, and there’s rarely a perfect moment to start something new. However, it’s essential to assess whether you have the time, mental space, and resources to commit to this journey.
Coaching requires training, practice, and ongoing self-improvement. If you’re in a phase of life with overwhelming personal or professional responsibilities, consider how adding coach training and starting a practice will fit into your existing schedule.
Reflect on:
- Do I have at least 5-10 hours per week to dedicate to training and practice sessions?
- Am I in a stable enough place to invest in my professional development?
- Can I manage the additional commitment without neglecting other priorities?
3. What Does Coaching Mean to You?
Coaching is a broad field that encompasses various specializations, from executive and career coaching to wellness and relationship coaching. Understanding what coaching means to you will help you define your path.
Some people see coaching as a tool for personal empowerment, while others view it as a way to help professionals advance in their careers. Your definition of coaching will shape your approach, training, and career direction.
Consider:
- What types of conversations do I enjoy having with others?
- Do I see myself working with corporate professionals, entrepreneurs, or individuals seeking personal growth?
- What kind of impact do I hope to have as a coach?
4. Are Your Finances in Order?
Building a coaching business often starts as a side hustle, with many coaches gradually transitioning into full-time work. It’s important to assess your financial situation and manage your expectations.
Some key financial considerations include:
- Cost of coach training and certification.
- Additional expenses for business tools, marketing, and ongoing education.
- A realistic timeline for financial return on investment.
While coaching has excellent income potential, most new coaches won’t make a full-time salary right away. Planning ahead and having financial stability during your transition can reduce stress and set you up for long-term success.
5. What’s Your Vision for the Future?
Where do you see yourself in five years? Envisioning your future as a coach will help you stay motivated and focused on your goals.
Your vision might include:
- Running your own coaching business with a full client roster.
- Working for an organization that values coaching and leadership development.
- Using coaching skills to enhance your current career in HR, education, or healthcare.
Take time to create a vision board or write a statement about what your ideal coaching career looks like. Having a clear vision will guide your training, business decisions, and personal growth as a coach.
6. Are You Ready for Entrepreneurship?
Starting a coaching practice often means becoming an entrepreneur. While some coaches work for established companies, many launch independent businesses. This means managing your marketing, budgeting, and client acquisition.
Running a coaching business requires:
- Understanding basic business principles.
- Comfort with networking and promoting your services.
- Managing scheduling, payments, and contracts.
If entrepreneurship isn’t your strong suit, consider starting as a part-time coach while building your business skills or looking for employment opportunities within organizations that hire in-house coaches.
7. Do You Have a Support System?
Becoming a life coach is a transformative experience, and personal growth is a significant part of the journey. Surrounding yourself with a strong support system can help you navigate the challenges of training and launching your coaching career.
At CTEDU, we connect you with a community of coaches who understand the journey and can offer support along the way. Additionally, having supportive friends, family, and mentors who believe in your vision can make all the difference.
Ask yourself:
- Do I have people in my life who will encourage me on this journey?
- Am I open to joining a community of like-minded individuals?
- Can I commit to my own personal growth while supporting others?
8. What’s Your “Why”?
Why do you want to become a coach? Understanding your motivation is essential, as coaching is a career built on passion, empathy, and a desire to make a meaningful impact.
Some common reasons people become coaches include:
- A desire to help others achieve clarity and confidence.
- A passion for personal development and growth.
- The fulfillment of guiding people toward their best lives.
If your “why” is strong, it will keep you committed even when challenges arise.
Are You Willing to Trust Your Client’s Genius?
There is a common myth that coaching is about giving advice and helping people take that advice. In reality, coaching is almost the opposite. As a coach, your role is not to instruct but to create a space where clients can uncover their own answers.
Great coaches trust in their clients’ wisdom and provide thoughtful questioning rather than directives. If you’re up for the challenge of stepping back and guiding instead of advising, coaching may be the right fit for you.
Ready to Explore Your Future in Coaching?
Curious about what it takes to become a life coach? Schedule a call with our team at CTEDU to discuss your goals and see if our program is the right fit for you. We’re here to help you launch your coaching journey with the support and resources you need.
