You Don’t Have to Figure It Out Alone

One of the biggest mistakes coaches can make is believing they have to figure everything out themselves.

Early in your career, it’s easy to think development comes from just doing more courses, reading more S&C books, or finding the perfect programme. And while those things do matter, some of the biggest lessons you’ll learn in coaching will come from conversations with other people.

A conversation with a mentor. A coach who challenges your thinking. Someone you meet at a conference who has already faced the problem you’re trying to solve.

For me, some of the most valuable development opportunities haven’t come from a qualification or a textbook. They’ve come from people. A simple recommendation, a shared experience, or an introduction that opened a new door.

The funny thing is that these moments rarely feel important at the time. You don’t walk away thinking, “That conversation will change my career.” But years later, when you look back, you realise how many opportunities started because someone gave you advice, shared their experience, or simply pointed you in the right direction.

That’s why I’ve always believed one of the most valuable things a coach can do is build genuine relationships. Not because you’re looking for your next job or trying to collect contacts, but because coaching can be difficult to navigate alone, especially when you’re working independently or freelancing.

Some of the best coaches ask questions, seek different perspectives, and aren’t afraid to reach out to others. They understand that development isn’t just about what you know. It’s also about learning from people who challenge your thinking and help you see things differently.

So the next time you’re at a conference, workshop, or webinar, don’t just focus on the content. Take the opportunity to start a conversation. You never know which coach, mentor, or connection might play an important role in your journey a few years from now.

Food for thought

Michael