There is a myth that coaching doesn’t suit creatives. Maybe this is because of a misconception that the coaching process seems too structured or rigid, not aligning with the fluid and spontaneous nature of creative work. I get it—creatives value their independent, unique perspectives and perhaps there’s a concern that coaching might push them to conform to standard practices or norms, resulting in muting their originality. So much of our world stifles the imaginative thinking and risk-taking needed for creativity to flourish. However, what I know as a leadership and development coach for creative professionals is that coaching can actually be profoundly creative. Whether you’re looking to change careers, begin a new project, or step into a leadership role, coaching can support your growth in alignment with the creative qualities and traits you hold dear.
I was initially drawn to coaching because of my background as a creative. I wanted to learn how to flourish in my non-linear career, untangle the complexity of my limiting beliefs and experience transformative growth inside a world that likely wasn’t built for me. I learned that in coaching, like in the creative process, experimenting to see what emerges from trying something new is crucial, and reflection and learning from action can be fruitful. I learned that coaching embraces uncertainty, and like creativity, which thrives in the unknown, it allows me to navigate ambiguity and push boundaries without needing immediate answers.
I also saw that coaching gave me space to center my vision and authentic expression, rather than doing what I thought others expected of me or needing to conform to traditional standards of success. This is a radical act! I found that as much as coaching is about walking a path of growth and discovery, it is also about unlearning the systems and structures that held me in place. Shedding these limiting beliefs and norms became an important part of coaching. Years later in my own coaching practice, I continue to see the astounding connection between my clients’ creative strengths and the coaching tools that help them live and work more freely as themselves.
Coaching has an incredible future within the creative industries. When coaching involves a dynamic interplay of encouraging experimentation, embracing uncertainty and centering vision, it’s transformative. It’s a natural fit if you’re seeking to embrace the distinctive aspects of yourself that set you apart. The result? Courage, confidence and resilience to move boldly in the direction you long to go.