Your coaching client is overwhelmed with emotions. How can you provide the support and empathy they need?
When emotions run high, coaches play a pivotal role. To support your client effectively:
How do you approach supporting clients who are overwhelmed?
Your coaching client is overwhelmed with emotions. How can you provide the support and empathy they need?
When emotions run high, coaches play a pivotal role. To support your client effectively:
How do you approach supporting clients who are overwhelmed?
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When a client is drowning in emotions, don’t toss them a lifeline—get in the water with them. Acknowledge the chaos they’re feeling and let them vent it out. But don’t stay in the deep end too long. Once they’ve offloaded, it’s time to shift gears. (You know me and my racing analogies.) Ask sharp, direct questions that pull them from drowning in their feelings to swimming toward a solution. You’re not there to coddle—you’re there to help them get back in control and channel that emotional energy into action. This approach hits hard with empathy while focusing on forward momentum. Three words | Mind Shift Change ??
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When a coachee is overwhelmed with emotions, create a safe space for them to express freely, allowing release of pent-up stress. Seek permission to explore the root cause, e.g., “What do you think is behind this emotion?” Gain approval before sharing your observations. Acknowledge their feelings, helping them validate and process emotions without bias or judgment. Reassure them that confidentiality and privacy are your priority, fostering trust and emotional safety throughout the session.