Willingness to Think Differently

As much as parents want to do what is “right” for their children, there is one key ingredient to successful coaching for anyone. The client needs to have a willingness to try something different. This is a key element to create a satisfying and effective life. At times teens show up with this attitude or they can develop it after trust is established in the coaching relationship.

As an ADD coach, I have experienced many parents calling me to explain situations where their child can’t get their homework done, has trouble focusing and/or retaining information. Their studies are falling behind. Sometimes the parent may want to know if I can help; how long will it take. In coaching, the teen would be the one who determines the teen’s goals, and what the agenda of the coaching will be. That is one of the most powerful things about coaching, the client drives the agenda.

First and foremost a client needs to develop a true mindset of change so they can achieve their dreams. In the world of ADD, there must be a restored sense of self esteem and a grounded sense of confidence that is created over time. This confidence builds as the client takes on more, possibly larger, tasks and creates a history of successful learning. Every client is different so the plan developed is unique. It is this co-creation between client and coach that will lead to success.