What Coaching Principle is at Risk?
A client shares a decision the coach personally disagrees with.
Free of Judgement
A client accomplished a step but still seems unsure of themselves.
Celebration (and/or Acknowledgment)
I will save $200 each month for the next six months.
Cash flow, budget, bank access
A coach asks a client, “What feels most important for us to focus on today?”
Coaching (Client-led, choice)
“I don’t even know where to start.”
“That makes sense — what feels most pressing right now?”
“Would it help to talk through what’s feeling heavy?”
A coach asks permission before offering a suggestion.
Aligned
Client gives short, closed responses.
Powerful Questions
I will apply for five jobs by Friday.
Time / energy capacity
Resume
A coach says, “You should really apply for SNAP before your hours increase.”
Not coaching (directing, outcome-driven)
“Just tell me what to do.”
“I can share options, and we can decide together — how does that sound?”
A client focuses only on what they “can’t do.”
Strengths-Based
A coach wants to share a resource or suggestion.
Asking Permission
I will attend a financial workshop every Saturday in March.
Availability (work schedule, childcare, transportation)
A coach shares two possible options and asks which feels more doable right now.
Coaching (partnership + autonomy)
“I’ve tried this before and it didn’t work.”
Reflect emotion + explore learning
A coach comes into the meeting with a clear idea of what should be worked on.
Client-Driven
A client just shared something emotional and pauses.
Reflective Listening
I will reduce my expenses by $300 per month.
Where reductions can realistically come from
A coach fills out paperwork during the meeting so the member doesn’t have to worry about it.
Depends (intent vs impact — discuss dignity + autonomy)
“I don’t have time for X right now.”
Validate + ask permission to revisit later
A client asks for a lot of direction early on.
Scaffolded (risk of over- or under-support)
A client keeps jumping between topics and you’re losing track of the main goal.
Holding the Focus
I will take on a second job starting next month.
Impact on existing responsibilities
A coach pushes through a goal discussion even though the client seems overwhelmed.
Not coaching (ignoring emotional cues, pace mismatch)
“I’m scared I’ll lose my benefits if I make more money.”
Name concern + invite exploration (no fixing)