People often ask me, “Why would someone want a coach?” When I’m at a neighborhood party, and I share that I’m an executive coach, I’m hit with, “Isn’t that just like therapy? What would someone like me get out of it?”

I most often share the amazing feeling of support that one gets from a coach – the unequaled listening, the behind-the-scenes cheerleading, the knowledge that you have someone on your side who believes you can accomplish what you want to accomplish. I also share the concept of using guilt in a positive way – if I promise my coach I’ll do something, I more than likely do it (even if it’s just before we connect).  I talk about the power of having someone hold a mirror up to you that reflects how well your actions match your intentions and goals, asks you questions you don’t want to answer, and calls you to action (or inaction) when you’re most likely to continue as before. But there is one positive, often indirect, benefit from coaching that can’t be overlooked, especially at this time of year.

Before each of my clients’ coaching sessions I ask them to fill out a prep form. And right at the top of the form, where no one can miss it, is a chance to list every accomplishment, big and small, since the last session. In fact, the questions posed before the list are, “What have I accomplished?  What are my wins?” 

The benefits of reflecting on, and answering, these questions are huge. So often we go through life doing – without realizing all that we have done. And when you are forced to think this through and even physically list out all that you’ve done, there is often a gasp of astonishment and a sense of pride. We run through life taking care of the next thing in front of us, and often miss the opportunity to really acknowledge all of the steps we’ve taken, people we’ve connected with, goals we’ve accomplished and choices we should be proud of.

So, as the year comes to an end, I encourage you to start your list. Answer the questions: What have I accomplished? What are my wins? List the big, and the small. The things you did for others, and the things you did for yourself. List them, own them, and celebrate them.  This will give you an even stronger start for 2012.

Happy New Year!