Lately, I’ve been reflecting on why I became a coach. Coaching isn’t just a career for me, it’s a calling. My journey wasn’t an easy one. I was a teen mom who had to fight for every opportunity, a military spouse navigating constant change, and a professional who built a career while raising a family and moving across the country. I didn’t just read about resilience, I lived it.
That’s why it’s frustrating to see so many people calling themselves "coaches" without the education, experience, or real-world wisdom to truly guide others. I know what it feels like to need real support, not just generic advice.
Coaching: More Than Just a Buzzword
The coaching industry has exploded, with projections estimating it will reach $20 billion by 2025 (IBISWorld). While that growth speaks to how much people need guidance, it also means many people are stepping into coaching with no real expertise, just personal experiences and a social media platform.
But real coaching isn’t just about offering advice or motivation. It’s about helping people navigate real challenges with proven strategies, emotional intelligence, and deep understanding.
A true coach understands:
✔ Emotional Intelligence (EI): Helping clients work through setbacks, relationships, and professional struggles.
✔ Human Behavior & Psychology: Knowing how people think, adapt, and grow.
✔ Leadership & Business Strategy: Real experience in leading teams, making strategic decisions, and driving success.
✔ Resilience & Change Management: Helping others navigate uncertainty with confidence and purpose.
Unfortunately, many so-called coaches lack these foundations and rely on personal anecdotes rather than research-backed methods.
Why Unqualified Coaches Can Do More Harm Than Good
I remember a time early in my career when I sought out coaching myself. I struggled to balance my career goals and personal life, and I turned to a coach who promised clarity and success. Instead, I got vague mindset advice and “just believe in yourself” pep talks. No strategy. No tools. Just fluff.
I left feeling more lost than before because real problems require real solutions.
Too many people today call themselves “coaches” without the skills to truly help others. And that’s a problem.
Here’s why:
Lack of Proper Training: Many self-proclaimed coaches have no formal coaching, psychology, or leadership education.
One-Size-Fits-All Advice: True coaching is individualized, generic “mindset shifts” don’t create lasting change.
No Real-World Experience: Reading a book on leadership isn’t the same as leading teams, managing crises, or navigating change.
No Understanding of Ethics: A good coach knows when to refer a client to a specialist instead of giving misleading advice.
A great coach helps clients discover their solutions with guidance, not just empty motivation.
What to Look for in a Qualified Coach
If you’re looking for a coach to guide your career, leadership, or personal growth, ask yourself:
✔ Do they have formal education in coaching, psychology, leadership, or a related field?
✔ Do they have real-world experience relevant to what they’re coaching?
✔ Do they follow ethical coaching guidelines?
✔ Do they offer practical strategies, not just motivation?
The best coaches aren’t just passionate, they’re prepared.
The Kalm Effect: Coaching Backed by Experience & Education
I didn’t become a coach because I thought it looked easy. I became a coach because I’ve lived through challenges, earned my education, and built the skills to help others succeed.
With a Doctorate in Industrial Organizational Psychology, an MBA, and over 30 years of real-world leadership, education, and coaching experience, I help individuals and organizations navigate career growth, leadership development, and resiliency training.
I know what it’s like to feel stuck, to need direction, to crave growth but not know the next step. And I also know with the right guidance, transformation is possible.
If you’re looking for a coach who has been in the trenches, learned the strategies, and understands what it takes to grow, let’s connect.
Want real coaching that drives results? Contact me at info@thekalmeffect.com
Let's Thrive, not just Survive!
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