7 Ways to Overcome Being an Introvert and Crush Your Coaching Goals
If you are an introvert and wondering if you have what it takes to be a life coach, stop. You have a whole toolkit of superpowers that you probably didn’t even realize you had.
We know that introvertedness lies on a spectrum and no one single definition can possibly encompass all introverts. There is a false narrative that implies that introverts struggle with roles in leadership, and that life coaching and introvertedness are an unlikely pairing. This couldn’t be further from the truth. The characteristics that you think might hold you back are most likely the very same ones that are going to help you succeed in your life-coaching career.
Cultivate Those Listening Skills
You may not be the loudest one in the room, but you’re probably the most observant and, most likely, an excellent listener. Guess what? Being an exceptional listener is without question, the most important skill to have as a coach. You are going to be a sounding board for your clients. They are going to bring all of their concerns, hang-ups, and perceived obstacles to you, and it’s up to you to listen intently to hear what they’re saying and, more importantly, what they’re not saying.
Dive Off the Deep End
A good life coach will encourage clients to get introspective and self-reflect. A great life coach will swan dive into their client’s life and start flipping rocks to see what’s beneath. As an introvert, you spend a great deal of time reflecting on how you make your way through the world. You thrive on meaningful discussion and you’re not afraid to ask the heavy questions. Introverts often get accused of being “over-thinkers,” but it’s often just that they’re taking the time to explore an issue from various angles.
Create and Hold Space for Your Clients
How often do you think your clients feel like they are safe? Safe to express themselves? Safe to discuss difficult subjects like fear, failure or even success? Introverts are good at keeping the world at bay, and limiting the number of influences on their life. Introverts prefer quiet, calmer environments. This is an excellent coaching style. Your clients are coming to you because they’re likely at a crossroads in their life. They need to make some hard decisions, and cultivate a path to achieve their dreams. The space you make for them to navigate this journey is going to become the foundation of your client and coach relationship.
Capitalize on Your One-on-One Skills
While some life coaches may conduct their work in a group setting, that’s not necessarily a preferred way for clients. Group settings overwhelm and wear out the average introvert, meaning they’re unable to capitalize on their potential. An introverted life coach is ideal for any client who just wants that person-to-person mentorship and guidance.
Revel in the Details, it’s a Strength!
Has anyone ever commented on your obsession with detail? It often means you’re able to pick up on subtle body language and cryptic messaging, and note any avoidance behaviour. Because introverts aren’t usually the ones setting the stage or tone, they’re able to sit back, focus and observe behaviours people don’t even know they’re exhibiting. Embrace being detail-oriented and know that it’s going to make you a more effective life coach than most.
Alone Time Doesn’t Make You Antisocial - It’s Your Time to Recharge
Introverts tend to avoid large gatherings, prefer smaller and more intimate gatherings, and enjoy spending time on their own. Enjoying time to yourself doesn’t make you antisocial; it means you are enough company for yourself. As an introverted life coach, this time on your own means you can recharge, practice self-care and give yourself the space to be mindful about your coaching strategies.
Your Distaste for Small Talk is a Major Strength
Most extroverts are masterful at small talk. They often feel that gaps in conversation need to be filled with constant chatter. The problem with this is when you’re always talking, you’re not listening. And more to the point, small talk can give a client permission to perpetuate an impenetrable veneer. Introverts don’t like to waste time with irrelevant details and idle chat. When they open their mouths to speak, it’s for a purpose. Small talk has its place, and is indeed an artform, but when clients are trying to get to the root of their issues so they can make leaps and bounds in their careers and life, being able to get to the heart of things is another one of those superpowers.
Introverts have the potential to be some of the most successful and sought-after coaches. Their heightened listening skills, penchant for empathy, commitment to calm and safe spaces, and courage to dive headfirst into a client’s obstacles mean all they have to do is accept who they are, and keep on crushing those coaching goals.
About Our Guest Expert
Kristie Santana is a life coach, educator, and entrepreneur with 15 years of experience in the coaching field. Her latest passion project, Life Coach Path, is an online blog and educational resource meant for aspiring coaches looking to get certified and kickstart their careers helping others achieve their goals. She is also the founder of the National Coach Academy based in New York.
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