by Melisa Alaba,

One of the most misunderstood growing professions today is that of a Life Coach. We see Life Coaches on reality shows and talk shows helping folks figure their stuff out? We are prone to wonder how a Life Coach can help me.  Which one do I choose? These are questions I often get in my inbox or on my twitter feed. Today, I would like to offer some clarity on how to select a Life Coach and what they offer.

The main objective of most Life Coaches is to get you to overcome an obstacle that has held you back, hold you accountable for your actions, and see you excel at living the life you desired. Beyond the training and certifications, they have their own personal experiences that shape them uniquely from other personal development coaches in the field.   Life Coaches help their clients navigate major life transitions that may have them stuck.

Here are few things to consider when choosing a Life Coach:

1. Examine the Life Coach’s personal philosophy and values. Do you find that it resonates with you? Do you hold the same ideas or wish to embody these principles? I believe this is important because trust is needed in the relationship. A good Life Coach will push you to do things you have longed to demonstrate, but have been too scared to attempt.
2. Expertise Matters. Research your perspective Life Coach’s specialty and the results they have achieved.  If you are seeking balance in your home and work life, seek someone who specializes in spiritual alignment and work life balance, rather than a career coach who may only generalize in this area.
3. Expect to work. A good Life Coach will give you weekly assignments with the expectation of completion, unlike therapy, mentoring and consulting where talking and reflective listening is one of the principles. Life Coaching is about checking in and taking massive action.
4. Feel the coach out. Life Coaching is a big investment which in many cases leads to a great payoff of personal achievement and breakthroughs that will shift your life. Take the time to read your prospective coach’s books, blog, and watch their videos. This will allow you to understand more about how they work and what they offer.
5. Get Referrals. Do you have colleagues or friend that have used a coach that they rave about?  Ask them about their experiences to gain an understanding of what that Life Coach may be like.
6. Go for it. Life is about taking chances. So jump in and get started. We can always find an excuse as to why we will not try something new.  Allow today be the day that you go for it.

As a Life Coach, I believe that we ultimately have the answer to all of life’s big questions in us. It is my job to guide you in understanding how to access that information by getting in touch with your spirit.  You were designed for greatness…so start living your best life today.

BMWK-  I want to hear from you. What experiences have you had with working with a Life Coach?

Melisa Alaba is a Life Coach, Speaker and the Author of Live Out Loud, 52 Ways to Reawaken Your Spirit and Live a Life of Purpose. Melisa can be found walking on a trail or celebrating her birthday (every day) with a piece of chocolate. You can connect with her at www.melisaalaba.com