Lifecoaching

Life coaching is a professional service that helps individuals identify personal or professional goals and develop strategies to achieve them. Coaches focus on present and future outcomes, enhancing self-awareness, motivation, and accountability, often through structured conversations and action plans.

It is distinct from psychotherapy, which addresses mental health issues, and from mentoring or consulting, which may involve more direct guidance or expertise. Lifecoaching commonly addresses areas such as career transition, relationships, health, and life balance.

Modern life coaching arose from the personal development movement in the late 20th century. Professional bodies such as the International Coaching Federation and the European Mentoring and Coaching Council provide ethics codes and credentialing, though licensing is not universal.

Practice typically involves one-on-one sessions, sometimes groups, lasting 30–60 minutes. Techniques include inquiry, active listening, goal setting, SMART objectives, action planning, and accountability check-ins. Confidentiality and clear engagement contracts are common.

Regulation and credentials vary by country. There is no single licensed standard for lifecoaching. Training programs and certifications exist, and practitioners may belong to professional associations that promote ethics and continuous education.

Evidence on effectiveness is mixed; some studies report improved goal attainment and well-being, while critics caution about variable quality and potential overpromising. Clients should assess qualifications, ethics, and scope before engaging.