HOW COACHING WORKS

Coaching Q&A

I can guide you through:
Self-sabotage | Resistance | Fear of failure & success | Limbo | Shame | Self-compassion | Boundaries | Emotional regulation | Vulnerability | Courage | Resilience | Communication | Habits | Future Self vision & action plan
Sheri Bell life coach
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Sheri A. Bell, Certified Life Coach | Author | Sage
Mindset | Communication | Relationships | Future Self Planning

What's your coaching philosophy, Sheri?

My basic coaching philosophy is two-fold: “It all begins in our mind” and “Without courageous action (even baby steps), we stay stuck.” Success smiles on those who are curious, committed, and courageous! I believe that mindset is the key to freedom. As Wayne Dyer noted, “Thought makes it so.” Our thoughts become our beliefs, which create our reality. What has shaped your self-identity? What has shaped your perspective of life? What old, outdated, unhelpful programming do you need to toss aside? Clarity and action are critical to expanding your self-identity, to then custom-design a life you REALLY enjoy. 

What's the first step in coaching together?

As coaching guru Tony Robbins noted, nothing makes us feel more alive than experiencing growth and expanding our personal power.

So first we’ll hold a 40-minute (max) complimentary consult, to see if we’re a good fit. You need to jive with the personality and coaching style of your coach! You’ll share where you are, and where you want to be, and what you think is “caging” you. You’ll confirm that you’re ready to commit your time, energy, and budget. Your mind will likely try to talk you out of doing this work, because your brain is hardwired to keep you “safe.” Coaching may not feel safe, at least initially. But to quote Nike, “Just do it.” Or, as I like to say, “Decide to tell your brain, ‘You’re not the boss, I am!'” Then prove that YOU hold the power!

I love working with individuals who are excited about the coaching process. People who are courageous and curious, receptive to gaining clarity, and creating an action plan they work to change their futures. 

What's the value of our coaching together, Sheri?

Coaching is part science, part psychology, and a wondrous dash of the mysterious. What you put in, you’ll get out. I bring you my practiced ability to deeply listen, hold space, reflect, and ask probing questions that gain you “A-ha” moments. I’ll serve as your mirror, guide, butt-kicker, and cheerleader. You may not yet appreciate the GIFT of partnering with a coach who is 100% committed to YOUR growth and success. We truly become partners in this journey you undertake to become your desired Future Self. I ask only three requirements: Be open-minded, be willing to dive deep to get to the root of your issue/s, and commit to taking focused action. And decide to enjoy the process. Your attitude matters!

NOTE: If you feel stuck in emotional wounds, trauma, phobias, or depression, please first partner with a qualified, experienced therapist. BetterHelp is one option.

The goal of coaching is consistent, forward action. Coaching naturally uncovers unhealed hurt, but we won’t park there. You can choose to work simultaneously with a therapist and life coach, if you feel doing so best supports you in your goal to move forward. We will maintain the confidentiality of each space.

So you coach privately & with BetterUp?

Yes! BetterUp is a world-class online coaching platform that embraces a “whole person” perspective. Companies around the globe partner with BetterUp to offer their employees coaching. You can sign up with BetterUp to coach with me, if you purchase one of their set coaching programs. Email support@betterup.zendesk.co to request me as your coach prior to purchasing your plan.

You also can coach with me directly, if you’d like a fully customized package that caters to your schedule, needs, and desired outcomes. My coaching packages typically start with a 3-month commitment, but we can start with a few sessions for you to “try out” coaching, if you’re not yet all-in. Schedule a complimentary Zoom consult with me to explore your questions and discuss options. 

Can coaching fix me or my issue in one session?

Coaching is designed to do one thing really well: Gain you clarity, which typically takes time. Coaches, by the way, don’t view their clients as broken. We’re all messy; we all have stuff we need to work on. Frankly, that’s just part of being human. I personally believe that my clients hold the power to “fix” themselves. Coaching just helps them to do so — and typically way faster than they can do on their own. An objective viewpoint is helpful when we’re stuck in our own perspective and habits, and need accountability.

Though it’s really tempting, coaches shouldn’t readily give advice or tell their clients what to do. Rather, we partner with our clients to help them to decide what they want to work on and change. 

Are you certified in coaching?

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I hold an ACC (Associate Certified Coach) certification with the International Coaching Federation (ICF). I also have completed coaching programs with BetterUp, Virtual Coach, and Positive Intelligence®. I am working toward the required 500 coaching hours to gain my PCC (Professional Certified Coach) from the ICF. I am continually investing in my skills to become a world-class coach. 

Do you coach from a spiritual perspective?

I am a coach who happens to be a Christian. I share my values where invited, but I honor the spiritual beliefs and practices of my clients, just as they honor mine. Coaching requires mutual respect.

Can you help me stay on target?

Yes. We’ll use SMART goals, your personal “Why,” and self-audit and accountability tools to keep you focused on forward movement. You need a clear vision of your Future Self to get there.

NOTE: If you are looking for an  accountability partner, please share the support you want and need by scheduling your complimentary consult with me. Accountability speeds progress!

Do you support any causes, Sheri?

Yes! A portion of your coaching sessions financially bless Mercy Ships, a non-profit organization that operates two hospital ships providing free, corrective life-changing surgeries to the poor in Africa. These children and adults, previously shunned by family and community because of cleft lips, bowed legs, disfiguring tumors, and bleeding disorders, gain acceptance and the opportunity to build BIG, flourishing lives. YAY!!
I can guide you through:
Self-sabotage | Resistance | Fear of failure & success | Limbo | Shame | Self-compassion | Boundaries | Emotional regulation | Vulnerability | Courage | Resilience | Communication | Habits | Future Self vision & action plan