Each Saturday many people around the globe tune into “Iyanla, Fix My Life on OWN the Oprah Winfrey Network. We have a front row seat as she indulges our curiosity around life issues. The people she encounters are just like us they are dealing with love, loss, secrets and fears.
The show is helping them come face to face with what is holding them back from living the life they dream of. Iyanla is there to help and coach them into success. Here is an example of her “fixing” the rappers DMX life.
httpvh://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tWEHBCLkrx4
Is this what coaching really is or is it a form of coaching with entertainment?
If, there is anyone who has read her books and spoke with her personally it is me. I have tuned into here career before the cameras started to roll.
However, as I peruse periodically her style and what she represents, I’m a little bit disturbed and concerned. Let me first say the intention of the show is to help people and give them the resources they need to grow and develop. I believe it accomplishes this goal on some level.
httpvh://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K7AiwwNnZLQ
As a life coach here in Atlanta, I like to leave my clients emotionally whole and optimistic. Iyanla, comes on the scene as an expert in all things but one of the guidelines for coaching is you are there to give guidance, direction and insight.
It is the goal of the coach to listen, be empathetic and wait on direction from the client. Our goal is not to bully you, talk down to you or intimidate you into confession. Coaching is not about confession but rather revealing and sharing.
Iyanla is not the standard for coaching. We are not gaveling or screaming at you nor do we get in your face and God knows we do not crawl around on our knees forcing you to tear up or weep. No, we are here to be a support and a teacher to all we are entrusted to work with.
I will encourage to take a look at my video it explains what a life coach is and what is the purpose of a life coach.
