I have been fortunate to flourish as a coach during the pioneering days of self-development. It was a dynamic time when my finances, depth of work, value provided, and network expanded each year. I accomplished this by consistently conveying my message, clarifying my offerings, maintaining integrity, and remaining accessible.
Back then, people took more personal responsibility, communicated respectfully, and supported those of integrity. If clients weren’t satisfied and no severe boundaries were breached, they’d simply find another coach without resorting to negative public reviews or lawsuits. There was a stronger sense of accountability and an understanding that sometimes, personalities don’t mesh, or the expertise isn’t there.
The coaching landscape today is different, reflecting the broader societal shift towards recognizing trauma and mental health. A decade ago, if coaching didn’t suit someone’s needs due to trauma, the professional response was to refer them elsewhere, or they’d quietly move on without backlash. Now, referring someone might be taken personally, like a romantic rejection, rather than seeing it as a call for alignment.
Today’s divisive views on politics, medical choices, gender, and misinformation mark a significant shift. Trust in experts is waning, but the need for real support is growing. The coaching industry is evolving, a change I view positively. Coaches who prioritize genuine value and integrity will stand out. True coaches, motivated by purpose rather than profit or popularity, will endure.
This is one of the reasons why I’m excited about my upcoming books, which will double as certification programs for coaches. They’ll provide insights often missed by those without a background in clinical psychology or neurobiology. My goal is to empower coaches to serve today’s intricate clientele and guide newcomers in self-development to choose wisely and set firm boundaries before engaging a coach.