FAQ

Why ‘Beyond Excuses’?

I am so glad you asked!  I have noticed how frequently when something does not get done, an excuse is often lurking in the shadows justifying this.  Excuses are important to acknowledge because they are rich with clues.  You are not alone!  We all have and use them.  There is value in realizing how excuses can be so insidious that they can go undetected.  Right now, even before we meet, you can begin to change the path you are walking simply by recognizing when you use them!  It is that easy.
During our coaching time, you can expect to probe those excuses and to become familiar with them.  Then, we will go beyond excuses to explore solutions and choices that will better serve you and your life.

What is coaching?

Essentially, coaching is a purposeful conversation that matters.  It goes beyond a social chat to being guided by questions that will make you pause and think.  It is a life-changing experience!
The nuts and bolts version:
The foundation of professional coaching has its roots in  psychology, education, consulting, sports coaching, philosophy, friendship and spirituality.
Coaching is a conversation and an interaction allowing the client to feel empowered to:
  • Lead themselves in all walks of life
  • Become more self-aware
  • Self-correct
  • Have the confidence to design their own path or direction
The approach to professional coaching honours:
  • You as the expert on your life
  • An agenda which is uniquely yours (not the coach’s) and designed by you
  • A mutual alliance designed to build structure and expectations to the relationship
  • Forward momentum created by learning and action to move you towards your chosen goal
Your journey of personal discovery happens in a safe, non-judgemental environment, whereby trust and confidentiality are paramount.  These circumstances are at the heart of learning for transformational change.

What does a coaching session look like?

It all begins with an ‘intake session’.  This is where we get to know each other, tend to some housekeeping, and suss out what is top of mind.  Sessions that follow are done over the phone or via  computer. Every session begins with your agenda, that guides our hour together.  A prep form is provided for the client, which is helpful for the next session; it also helps with monitoring progress.  The prep form also serves as a timesaver since there are times when you come to your session blank.  That is where the intake session can also provide clues on a direction.
The goal for every session is to leave with new awareness, learning and ideas.  Also, you will know which steps to take.

What is NOT coaching?

Coaching is NOT a replacement for therapy or counselling.
Coaching CAN run concurrently with therapy / counselling, but it can never replace either.
Coaching is not counselling, consulting, or mentoring.

What coaching methodology is used by me?

I have been educated and am skilled in the following:
  • Outcome Coaching
  • Performance Coaching
  • Process Coaching
Your input, learning style and personality determine the most effective approach for you.
A teaching component is blended into sessions to enrich the learning and understanding of yourself and others.  You will be equipped with the ability to self-correct and self-generate for long-term excellence.  Achieving peak performance and maximum results from the coaching relationship requires time and commitment from the client.  A typical timeline is 3 – 9 months.

How do I know coaching is credible?

Beyond ExcusesTM Professional Coaching Services is aligned with and supports the guidelines determined by the International Coaching Federation (ICF) and the Center for Credentialing & Education (CCE).  Both organizations are committed to an enforceable code of ethics and continuing education.
The ICF is the Gold Standard for the preserving the integrity of the coaching profession around the world.  It is the largest non-profit professional association worldwide comprised of personal and business coaches, with more than 12,000 members and over 132 chapters in 34 countries.
The CCE verifies coaches have met professional coaching competency standards that solidify the knowledge, skills, and abilities expected from professional coaches.

How do I know that a coach is credible?

The ICF provides a directory of credentialed coaches that can verify a coach has met at least minimal qualifications..  That means that those listed have completed approved coach education and have agreed to abide by an enforceable code of ethics.