Through television and magazines, Oprah was our life coach way before most of us even knew what a life coach was. 

She inspires, guides, and motivates millions, still. The icon has worked with a life coach- Martha Beck since the early 2000s.

“For over 15 years, I have looked to Martha Beck for her wisdom, and marveled at how she helps people through crises in their lives with such grace, insight, and humor”, Oprah said. 

In her article, Oprah explains how a life coach is someone who can help you identify strengths and weaknesses and overcome obstacles holding you back. 

What does a Life coach do?

Much like a sports coach, a life coach helps you identify a goal in your life and then works with you to develop a plan of action to achieve that goal. 

“Life coaching focuses on what’s happening right now, what a person wants next, and how that gap can be bridged.”

Coaching is about helping people recognize barriers that keep getting in their way, aiding them in finding motivation, and identifying any resistance to change. 

Life coach is a broad term—one can also find business coaches, executive coaches, leadership coaches, and health coaches, but a life coach is typically most helpful when you’re thinking about your overall future.

A common misconception, however, is that life coaches provide advice and share with you cliched adages and proverbs. That’s not the case. 

A coach is not your preachy friend.  A coach is a thinking partner, and you are the expert/boss. 

“Life coaching focuses on what’s happening right now, what a person wants next, and how that gap can be bridged”

The important thing to keep in mind is that a life coach won’t address clinical issues. A great life coach will know the boundaries of coaching and will refer you to a therapist if and when clinical work is needed.