✨ Coach Spotlight: Kavita

Kavita is a Leadership Coach based in South Africa.

What motivated you to become a coach?

Coaching gives me a deep sense of fulfilment. I partnered with a coach a couple of years ago and found the experience to be both enriching and eye-opening. It was then that I realised that I could use my qualities of listening, grounded presence and empathetic nature to help others in a similar space. I have contributed to empowering various people in my life, supporting their growth by encouraging them to take advantage of their strengths. In this, I discovered my own purpose of coaching leaders to become authentic and conscious beings. 

What was one of your biggest learnings while training to become a coach?

Bill O'Brien said: “The success of an intervention depends on the interior condition of the intervener.” This involves instilling an internal sense of stillness and the ability to regulate any emotions. I learned that by being fully present, I can create a safe space for the client to think, spend time in reflection and experience profound moments.  This facilitates an increase in awareness, resulting in progressive shifts towards the goals. 

What do you typically talk about with a prospective client during a free discovery session?

This session is built around the excitement of meeting the prospective client and the possibility of being able to make a positive impact in that client’s life.  The discovery session is merely an opportunity for us to learn about each other and assess whether our partnership will be a good fit. I begin by sharing information about my background, experience and personal coaching journey. This is followed by explaining the coaching process and some of our roles and responsibilities as the coach and client.  I am fascinated to hear what has inspired clients to seek out a coach, what they would like to attain from the sessions and how committed they are to the process. 

What do you think prevents more professionals from seeking out their own coach?

Some professionals don’t seek out a coach purely because they do not have the time to commit to the process. Even though virtual coaching can save travel time, the coaching process usually extends beyond the hour.  After the session has ended, the client is likely to reflect on the conversation, complete various actions or activities committed to during the session and take the difficult steps to move towards the desired reality. Some professionals choose to wait for the “right time” or when they are “less busy”.

What has surprised you about working with clients during the past several years?

I coach organisational leaders at various levels. What surprised me the most is that some leaders at the highest levels still grapple with insecurity, imposter syndrome and self-doubt. Although they portray an image of being in control, the gremlins continue to lurk inside.  This impacts upon their self-confidence and other leadership skills. It made me realise that learning about the self is a lifelong process and that we are all simply human, perfectly imperfect.