What is Coaching and What Isn't

by Andrea M.
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What Coaching Is – and What It Isn’t

If you’re here, you’re probably exploring coaching – maybe for the first time. You might be wondering if coaching is the right thing for you, what to expect, or even what coaching actually is.


Coaching is a powerful space for you to think clearly, make confident decisions, and move forward.

It’s a conversation – but not like the ones you have every day. It’s focused, reflective, and completely about you. Coaching gives you the time and space to stop, breathe, zoom out, and get clear on what matters most.

We work in partnership. You bring the topic – a challenge, a goal, a decision, a crossroads. I bring structure, curiosity, and tools to help you explore your thinking, clear the noise, and find your way through.

Coaching is not therapy, mentoring or advice.

Coaching isn’t about analysing your past or offering expert answers. It’s about unlocking your own clarity and direction. You already have the insight – my role is to help you access it.

Many of my clients are used to being the go-to person, the one who figures things out. Coaching offers something different: a confidential space where you don’t have to have all the answers, and you’re supported in finding them for yourself.

Coaching is about both doing and being.

Yes, we look at your goals, your plans, your next steps. But it’s not just about action.

Coaching invites you to reflect on who you’re becoming in the process. It’s just as much about mindset and self-awareness as it is about strategy. Together, we explore what drives you, what holds you back, and what needs to shift in how you see yourself in order to move forward.

That includes your beliefs – about yourself, about success, about what’s possible. Many clients come for help with “what to do” and leave with a much deeper understanding of who they are and how they want to live and work.

Coaching is for people who are ready to make a change – and take responsibility for that change.

You don’t need to have everything figured out. Most of my clients don’t – that’s why they come. But it does mean you believe that change is possible, and you’re willing to look inward as well as forward.

Coaching is not for those who feel completely powerless or believe they have no control over their lives. If you’re stuck in blame or waiting for someone else to fix things, coaching may not be the right fit just yet.

But if you’re open, curious, and ready to take ownership – even if you’re not sure how – coaching can be life-changing.

Coaching may not be for you if...

You’re looking for advice or someone to tell you what to do.

You’re not ready to be challenged with kindness.

You believe you have no choice or influence over your situation.

You’re not in a place where you can invest time and energy into yourself.

That’s okay. Coaching is powerful, but it’s not for everyone – and it’s important that it feels like the right fit for you.

If you’re curious – let’s talk.

No pressure, no sales pitch. Just a conversation to explore whether coaching is the right next step for you, and whether I’m the right coach to support you.

You don’t have to be “ready.” You just have to be open.