How to Become Better at Coaching

And what truly separates a good coach from a transformative one

Ever wondered what separates a good coach from a truly transformative one?

I remember my first months as a coach - eager, passionate, and (let’s be honest) often completely overwhelmed by all the advice out there and the pressure I put on myself.

Back then, I thought being a great coach meant knowing all the answers - or, worse, solving my clients’ problems. Spoiler alert: I was so wrong.

Coaching isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about holding space, asking powerful questions, and helping clients find their own clarity. Coaching is a service - and it’s an art you master over time, one session, one client, and one insight at a time.

And while I know brilliant coaches who’ve never done a formal certification, I’ve learned that working deeply with people always has many layers. That’s why going through structured training or mentorship can elevate your skill set exponentially.

After over five years of coaching clients and training more than 100 coaches in our Body • Mind • Heart Coaching Certification, I’ve noticed the same questions come up again and again.

Let’s explore them together. 

1. What’s the most important skill to develop as a new coach?

Without a doubt: the art of listening.
Deep, present, non-judgmental listening.

Listening to what’s said - and, often more importantly, to what’s left unsaid.

Coaching is never about you and your belief systems. It’s about your client's.
When you truly hear them, you can ask better questions, reflect insights more powerfully, and create the kind of safety that invites transformation.

If I had to define coaching in one sentence, it would be this:

Coaching is the art of changing perspective.

And that starts with curiosity - about your client’s story, your own mind, and the beliefs shaping your worldview.

2. How do I define my unique coaching message?

Start by reflecting on your own journey and the transformation you want to create for others.

Your story, values, and lived experiences are the roots of your brand - and your message. The moments you once felt ashamed of are often the very ones that will connect you most deeply with your ideal clients.

Clarity doesn’t come from overthinking; it comes from doing.
Share your message, refine it, evolve as you grow.

And if you ever need help defining your message - that’s one of my favorite things to do with my clients.

3. What if I feel like an imposter or doubt my abilities?

Welcome to the club - every coach has been there.

Imposter feelings are a sign that you’re expanding into something new. Instead of resisting them, get curious. Ask what they’re trying to show you, and where you are holding yourself back.

Remember: feeling ready is an illusion.
Confidence doesn’t come first - it’s built through action.

The biggest growth moments in my business came from saying “yes” to things that scared me. Every time you stretch beyond your comfort zone, your capacity expands.

That’s also why working with your own coach is so powerful - they help you see your blind spots and remind you of your brilliance when you can’t.

4. How can I grow my coaching business without burning out?

Here’s the truth most new coaches underestimate:
You’re not just learning to coach - you’re also learning to run a business.

Coaching and marketing require completely different skills, yet both are essential to your success.

Sustainable growth starts with clear boundaries and energy management. Create a schedule that nourishes you, prioritize high-impact activities, and say “no” to what doesn’t align with your goals - especially in your first 12–24 months.

Your well-being is your business strategy.
The better you care for your body, mind, and energy, the more effortlessly you’ll show up for your clients and business.

5. What’s the best way to keep improving as a coach?

Stay curious. Keep learning. Always.

Every client, every session, is an opportunity to grow. Seek feedback, celebrate progress, and stay open to evolution.

I’m endlessly grateful for every mentor I’ve learned from - and I still go back to the basics often. The simplest tools are sometimes the most profound.

True mastery is built through practice, reflection, and commitment. Science says it takes about 10,000 hours to master a skill - and I’d say that’s pretty accurate.

So keep coaching. Keep learning. Keep showing up.
That’s how you become truly transformative.

Want to Take Your Coaching to the Next Level?

If your first language is German and you feel called to become a certified coach, I’d love to invite you to our Body • Mind • Heart Coach Certification - starting January 26.

This round includes something I’m especially excited about:
personal 1:1 coaching support throughout the program.

Because you can only take your clients as deep as you’ve gone yourself.

👉 Learn more about the Body • Mind • Heart Coaching Certification