Life coaching has grown exponentially as a profession over the past decade with credit, in part, to the certification programs that have allowed some structure and professional standards to be set around the practice. There are coaches that don’t have training, education, or certification but use their experience to guide others to success. But the coaches who are certified have some more overall success. If you’re interested in becoming a certified lifestyle coach, read on.

How to Become a Certified Lifestyle Coach

You’re not required to become certified while working as a coach, but it can certainly help. Fewer people consider going to a coach that isn’t certified given how many options they have for services. So becoming certified seems more ideal by the day. Becoming certified also helps coaches hone their skills so that they can be more impactful with the clients they serve. Here are some ways to begin your journey as a certified lifestyle coach.

Find the Right Program

Finding the right program is an important first step in your new career as a certified lifestyle coach. There are hundreds of programs offered all around the world, and understanding which programs tackle your priorities and growing edges can make the difference in the outcome of your training. ICF-accredited coaching programs include coach skills training, ethical training, observation while supporting and coaching clients, and a comprehensive exam. These milestones can help set you apart from other coaches.

Area of Specialty

To become a certified lifestyle coach, you’ll want to dive a little deeper into the type of coaching you want to do. Perhaps you’re best at working under the health and fitness umbrella. Maybe your expertise is in major life changes, addiction, or creativity. If you’re more into guiding people toward spiritual pursuits or career goals, you’ll want to take a different approach than a coach working specifically with non-profits or small businesses. Understanding your area of specialty not only helps you target your marketing when the time comes, but it also helps you start your training off on the right foot. Browse YesGurus’ library of self-help books to get you started with new and creative ideas.

Break Down the Cost

It’s important that your pursuit of a new career is manageable for you. Understanding the costs is critical in making sure you can pull off what needs to be completed; otherwise, you might not be able to follow through, which can hurt you in the long run. To work through these finer details, it could be wise to work with a coach of your own. It’s easy these days to find coaches online, and by doing so, you can begin to understand what your future clients may experience when they start looking for your help.

Identify Your Mode of Service

Will you be working online through video chat or on the phone? Or is the kind of work you’re planning to do better done in person? Making this distinction can be helpful in marketing yourself once you finally become a certified lifestyle coach. Becoming an online lifestyle coach can provide some flexibility to your schedule and enable you to travel, while working in person with clients helps give a little extra to the work you’re able to do. Perhaps working with your own coach can give you insight into the client’s experience and what you believe works best. YesGurus can connect you with an online coach so you can begin to get a feel for it yourself.

If you’re ready to start working toward becoming a certified lifestyle coach, let YesGurus connect you with a coach today!

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