The Upside-Down Skills of Masterful Coaches

Some aspects of coaching are intuitive (like being friendly), while others are paradoxical and upside-down.

For example, in Motivational Interviewing, a communication style used in coaching and counseling, there is something called the “righting reflex.”

The righting reflex is the instinct to help or “fix” a client, as well as give them directions on how best to change. However, this instinct can often hinder a client’s progress, as they may become defensive when pushed in a certain direction.

Great coaches learn to get curious instead of corrective, allowing clients to explore their own paths to change.

Lessons to Unlearn from Experienced Coaches

Lesson 1: Going into robot-detective mode before getting to know a client

Jeremy Fernandes, a seasoned coach, shares how he used to focus on extracting information from clients rather than letting them take the lead. Through experience, he learned to listen and ask good questions, allowing clients to uncover their own solutions.

Lesson 2: Treating a health goal like a destination

Kate Solovieva realized that health goals are ongoing and require continuous maintenance, rather than a one-time achievement. By setting smaller, achievable goals along the way, clients can feel a sense of progress and satisfaction.

Lesson 3: Applying more structure and discipline when clients aren’t compliant

Azul Corajoria discovered that most people need more self-compassion rather than discipline. By responding to setbacks with curiosity and self-compassion, clients are more likely to stay engaged and motivated.

Lesson 4: Thinking I get to define a client’s “progress”

Dom Matteo learned to let go of his own scorecard and allow clients to define their own measures of success. By focusing on the whole person and their well-being, rather than just numerical goals, clients can find fulfillment beyond the scale.

Lesson 5: Focusing on client results instead of the whole person

Jason Bonn realized that progress goes beyond exercise and nutrition tweaks. By coaching the whole person and considering their deep health, coaches can help clients thrive in all aspects of their lives.

Striving for Mastery in Coaching

Becoming an excellent coach requires the willingness to unlearn old habits and embrace new perspectives. It’s about developing judgment, empathy, and the ability to see clients as individuals with unique needs and goals.

The PN Level 2 Master Health Coaching Certification offers a unique opportunity for coaches to deepen their practice and work at a higher level. Through mentorship, self-study, and real-world coaching practice, coaches can enhance their skills and make a lasting impact on their clients.

Why It Matters

The Level 2 certification is NBHWC-approved, opening up opportunities for national board certification and professional membership with the Health Coaches Alliance. These credentials set coaches apart in a competitive field and demonstrate their commitment to excellence.