Want to really change how you think? Try this coaching tip from ACT
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Want to shift your thinking? Read on for a technique on distancing rather than changing a thought. Let me tell you how.
Changing how you think involves a shift. However, that shift might not be in the thought itself but the way that you relate to that particular thought (or feeling, inner sensation, memory, dream...)
This idea of shifting the way we relate to thoughts is one of the ideas under Acceptance & Commitment Coaching; an approach that we cover on our?ICF Accredited Coaching Diploma.
This means that our focus is not on changing the thought itself but the way that I view it, how rigidly I hold a thought… in essence, my relationship to that thought (or feeling!).
Now this might sound a bit philosophical, but let’s take an example to put it in practice.
Imagine that you have to do something that is going to challenge you a bit. Perhaps go to a party by yourself where you don’t know a lot of people. Of course, we are all different and some of us might not think twice about this. In fact some might be energised!
But, for the sake of this example, imagine this would be a tricky scenario for you. It might cause you to overthink, ruminate, and let thoughts such as?‘I won’t know anyone!’?or?‘What if I won’t know what to say!’?take up a lot of space in your mind.
In Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) or Coaching we talk about how we might want to notice those thoughts but instead of putting our energy in changing them we focus more on deciding how close or far we hold those thoughts, feelings, memories…
This means that you might notice these thoughts appearing but instead of focusing on changing them you lightly push them away. It’s not avoidance – you’re actively accepting to not focus on those thoughts.
This technique strengthens your psychological flexibility – a state characterised by being in harmony with who you are, what’s happening in your life whilst limiting rigid thinking.
Sounds intriguing right? Give it a try. See if you can spot a thought that you hold really tight. And just give it a bit of room to breathe. See how you feel after. It might surprise you!
How do I become a Professional, Accredited Coach?
The world of coaching can be a confusing one. With different accreditations, training pathways and niches (e.g. life, career, executive etc.) you can get a bit lost doing your research!
To help you navigate this we have created a guide to help you understand the coaching profession and whether it’s a career path that you wish to pursue.
What does a Coach do?
Coaches typically either work for themselves or as contractors for bigger businesses.?Usually a Coach would spend their day working 1-1 with people holding coaching sessions and carrying out any additional tasks to help their business running. This is key if the Coach is working for themselves (e.g. marketing, social media).
How is Life Coaching different to other Types of Coaching?
In essence, coaching is coaching (unless we are talking sports and fitness coaching, which is a different field really). When we talk about life coaching we usually refer to individuals who support others in creating personal goals,enabling holistic and transformational change. That said, executive, career, or other coaches would also do the same! A coach ultimately is a coach.
Who can become a Life Coach?
Technically anyone can. Although we would suggest that this is something that you need to be passionate about! Ideally Life Coaches are people who thrive working with people, especially in a 1-1 capacity. Individuals who are open to feedback, reflective and open to supervision.
What is an ICF Accredited Life Coach?
The ICF is the largest global awarding body for coaches. The ICF provide training programmes (via providers such as Become), competency frameworks and accreditation pathways. Once accredited, ICF Coaches gain professional recognition for their practice through three credentials: ACC, PCC and MCC (MCC being the highest).
How do I become a Life Coach?
There are a number of key steps to consider including your training and mentoring. Download our Guide to find out more.?
On this free workshop you will find out more about what coaching is and isn’t, our integrative approach and ways to become a great coach.?You will also have the opportunity to hear from previous Alumni of the ICF Accredited Diploma in Integrative Coaching and find out more about our delivery approach and teaching standards.
By attending you will learn more and leave with a clear overview of: