5 Key Takeaways from Launching My Wellness Coaching Program

Recently, I created a 3-month holistic wellness coaching program designed to encompass all aspects of health, including those we often overlook or avoid. Before offering this program to clients, the researcher in me wanted to ensure that the foundation was solid +  allow time for reflection + revision to make the program more approachable, holistic + inclusive.

Here are some lessons I learned during this process. These insights are relevant not only to the coaching industry but also to working with teams + others in professional + sometimes personal settings.

1: Not everyone is your perfect client, and you are not everyone’s perfect coach.

Coaches are human + so are clients. Like any other relationship, it's not always a perfect match for various reasons. Perhaps the client's goals don't align with the coach's expertise or methodologies. Maybe the client isn’t ready to fully engage in the work. This reminded me to know my strengths + to turn down opportunities that won’t provide the best outcome for both parties. For those seeking a coach, take the time to find the right fit.

2: Always have a Plan B + a Plan C. 

I initially designed my program to leverage the visual benefits of video conferencing through collaborative whiteboards. However, I quickly realized that this isn’t everyone's preferred way of working and can exclude those using smaller screens, like mobile phones. While some activities benefit from this setup, I made adjustments for various situations, including providing handouts/PDFs, having clients use analog materials they already have on hand, or simply talking things through.

3: Be prepared for uncomfortable conversations.

Getting intimate with someone’s health can be uncomfortable. Perhaps the topic isn’t something usually considered to be health-related, such as finances, or may evoke trauma. As a coach I was reminded to address these topics kindly. I also leveraged my UX research skills to read cues, knowing when to prompt or when silence was needed.

4: Coaching is best when it’s a symbiotic relationship.

My clients gained new tools and opportunities to explore + I also learned something new from each client. Sometimes it was an app, book, podcast, or even a new approach to a topic. I was on a discovery path just as much as my clients.

5: Lived experiences create empathy + compassion.

I’ve often struggled with imposter syndrome, questioning why someone would choose me as their coach when I don’t fit the stereotypical image of perfect health. The last few years have been challenging, requiring adjustments in how I work + focus. However, these experiences have given me compassion + empathy. I adhere to my own holistic image of health, which is imperfect + doesn’t conform to traditional stereotypes. That’s what I want to give to my clients.

This journey has been transformative. I’m currently in the final stages of revising my program + extending it to 4 months to ensure that my clients + I have time to explore wellness deeply + intimately. I remind myself daily that the program doesn’t have to be perfect. As long as it’s a reflection of what I have to offer + how I can best work with others, it will be what is needed in this world.