Is it worth the risk – taking the chance on a coach

Alexis Rae Baker

Hey Lexis,

What are your thoughts on coaches? Are they worth the cost?

Thanks,

Looking in Tumwater

Dear Looking,

I believe there is the potential for value in a coach, but it ultimately comes down to whether it’s worth the risk for you. Does this person have the tools to get the results you want? Do you believe they are a good match for you?

Getting a coach is a risk, just like anything else. If things don’t go the way you want, you’ve lost something, even if it’s just time.

So, it becomes a question of “is this worth the risk for you?”

They’re a few steps I recommend you take when trying to make this determination.

1. Evaluate how much you want the result

We all have desires throughout our lives that inspire us to various degrees. You have to figure out whether that desire is strong enough to keep you moving or if it’s a fleeting desire that will evaporate when challenges arise.

2. Determine what you are, and are not, willing to do

If the coach you’re looking to work with got their results via methods you can’t stomach, chances are they won’t be a good match. Knowing your boundaries is key in this regard because it will shape the direction you travel.

3. Decide if NOT having the results you want is worth the cost 

Deciding whether something is worth the effort is one thing, but when it comes to evaluating risk, you also need to determine if you’re willing to go without the result. Assuming this person can teach you, would you regret not signing up? If this coach could save you a year of the time it would take to accomplish it on your own, would that be valuable to you? If there’s a chance you can get your desired result, are you willing to lose out on other opportunities to reach your goal?

Any way you look at it, the decision is highly personal. I believe that most opportunities can work, but only if you’re willing to work them. 

Generally, we aren’t willing to work any given opportunity all the way through. We get swept up in the dream, and then our conviction falters when the work sets in. It’s only when you find that driving force within yourself that things will truly change. If you have that driving force, though, it almost doesn’t matter which opportunity you pursue.

Coaching can certainly help you get there faster, but you are the primary determining factor in your success.

Good luck,

~Lexis

Lexis is Alexis Rae Baker. She writes from her home in Olympia.   Got a question about life, relationships, or spirit?  Visit her at lexisrae.com or write to Lexis at  Lexis@theJOLTnews.com