Coaching Exercises
Focused practice sessions to build specific ICF competencies. Each exercise teaches you HOW, not just WHERE to improve.
🎯Maintains Presence
The Power of Silence
5 minPractice holding silence after the client speaks. Most coaches rush to fill gaps. Learn to let silence do the work.
After client says: 'I just don't know what to do anymore'
✓... (3 seconds of silence) ... 'Stay with that feeling for a moment. What comes up for you?'
Staying Present with Strong Emotions
5 minPractice staying grounded when the client expresses frustration, sadness, or anger instead of trying to fix it.
Client says: 'I'm so angry at my boss, I could scream!'
✓'I can hear how frustrated you are. What's underneath that anger?'
👂Listens Actively
Reflective Listening
5 minPractice reflecting back what the client says in your own words to show you truly heard them.
Client says: 'I keep taking on more work because I'm afraid they'll think I'm not committed'
✓'So there's a fear that saying no would be seen as lack of commitment. Is that right?'
Hearing What's Not Said
5 minPractice noticing what the client avoids, minimizes, or dances around.
Client talks about work stress but never mentions their partner
✓'I notice you've shared a lot about work. I'm curious — how is this affecting things at home?'
💡Evokes Awareness
Powerful Questions
5 minPractice asking open-ended questions that create new thinking instead of confirming what you already suspect.
Client is stuck in a decision
✓'What would you do if you knew you couldn't fail?'
Challenging Assumptions
5 minPractice gently challenging the client's limiting beliefs without being confrontational.
Client says: 'I could never speak up in those meetings'
✓'Never? Has there been a time when you did speak up somewhere?'