When people find out that I’m a life coach, especially when they learn I’m certified, they usually light up with excitement.

They express how amazing it would be to do something similar, to have a career where they can make a difference and gain more freedom in their lives.

But just as quickly as their faces brighten, I see them dim.

I hear things like,

“I could never do that,”

or

“I’m a mess myself—how could I help others?”

These fears are common, but love, let me tell you—they are completely unfounded.

If you’ve ever found yourself thinking that you’re not cut out to be a life coach, I want to walk you through some important points that I wish I knew when I first started this journey. Here are some key takeaways that helped me, and I hope they’ll help you too.

Want to dive deeper into becoming a life coach?

Join My Free Workshop!

If you’re curious about becoming a coach, I’ve got an amazing opportunity for you. I’m hosting a FREE two-day workshop called So You Want to Be a Coach from October 20th to 21st, and I would love for you to join me.

In this live, interactive workshop, we’ll explore what it truly means to be a coach, who makes a great coach, and dive into practical coaching tools you can use immediately. We'll also address common fears, doubts, and challenges within the coaching industry. By the end, you'll have clarity on whether coaching is right for you, along with actionable tools to begin your journey.

If this sounds like something you need, head to wholeheartedcertification.com/workshop to register.

1. You Don’t Need to Have It All Figured Out

One of the biggest myths about life coaching is that you have to have your entire life together before you can help someone else.

The truth is, none of us have it all figured out—not even the most experienced coaches you may admire.

Personal growth is a lifelong journey, and it’s messy. But guess what? That’s exactly what makes you relatable. People don’t need a coach who’s perfect. They need someone who’s real, who’s been through the struggles and come out the other side with lessons to share. Your messiness, your humanness, is what will make you an incredible coach.

I often reflect on this quote by Adrienne Maree Brown,

“If you tell a story without the mess and failures, the iterations, I don't trust the success and lessons.”

This resonates so deeply with me. It’s through our vulnerability, our willingness to share our missteps, that we create real connections. And connection is at the heart of what makes a great coach.

2. There’s No “Perfect” Mold for a Coach

Many people picture coaches as extroverted, charismatic individuals who seem to have life on lock. But that’s not the reality.

Coaches come from all walks of life, with different personalities, experiences, and backgrounds. Some of the best coaches I know are introverted, and some are wildly extroverted. Some are deeply intuitive, while others take a more practical, logical approach.

The diversity in coaching styles is what makes this profession so powerful. We need coaches who reflect the diversity of the people they serve.

When I first started, I had this idea that because I didn’t fit the stereotypical image of a coach, I couldn’t do this work. I was wrong. I came to realize that we need more diverse voices in the coaching world, and that’s exactly why I created my certification program.

There’s no one-size-fits-all in coaching—your unique style and life experience are what make you valuable.

3. You Already Have What It Takes

The biggest barrier I see for people is self-doubt.

They say, “I don’t have the right background,” or “I’m not skilled enough.” But let me tell you, the only two things you really need to be a successful coach are a desire to be of service and a passion for doing this work. Everything else—tools, techniques, and methods—you can learn along the way. You don’t need a psychology degree or years of experience in a particular field. Your lived experience, your compassion, and your willingness to help others are more than enough.

When I first started, I had no formal background in coaching. I was just someone who wanted to make an impact and help people transform their lives. I was terrified at first, but I trusted that desire. Now, almost a decade into this journey, I see that it’s that very passion and commitment that have made me the coach I am today.

4. Your Path Doesn’t Have to Be Linear

Finally, it’s important to understand that most coaches didn’t set out to become coaches.

Many of us came to this work after living full, varied lives in different careers and roles. Whether you’re coming from a corporate job, teaching, or even being a stay-at-home parent, those experiences are what shape you into a coach who can relate to and serve a wide range of people.

The life you’ve lived up until now, with all its twists, turns, and challenges, has prepared you to do this work. You don’t need a perfect, linear career path.

You just need to trust that everything you’ve been through has led you to this point, and that you’re ready to take the next step.

As we wrap up this exploration of coaching, it’s clear that the journey to becoming a coach is both exciting and transformative.

Whether you're considering a coaching career or simply looking to enhance your skills, this workshop will provide you with the insights and tools you need to move forward with confidence. Remember, every great coach started with a spark of curiosity and the courage to face their fears.

Join me in my live, interactive workshop on October 20-21 to uncover your potential, connect with like-minded individuals, and take the first step toward a fulfilling coaching journey.

We can’t wait to see you there! For more details and to secure your spot, visit wholeheartedcertification.com/workshop

Want to dive deeper through more journal prompts?

If you want to be in the know and get each Mindset Monday straight to your inbox complete with journal prompts to take you even further, get on my email list.

About your host, Shirin Eskandani