Coaching isn’t just about asking the right questions—it’s about breaking deep-seated mindsets that hold people back. In a recent episode of the Delenta Activate Podcast, master coach and author Clare Norman shared valuable insights into how coaching can help leaders shift their thinking, unlock their potential, and thrive in today’s fast-paced business world.
A successful leader isn’t necessarily the one with all the answers, but rather the one who empowers others to think critically and solve problems independently. According to research by the International Coaching Federation (ICF), 86% of companies report that they recouped their investment in coaching, and 70% saw improved work performance (source: ICF, 2023). This makes mindset coaching a crucial element for leadership success.
Many leaders struggle with change because they are trapped in old beliefs formed from childhood experiences, past workplaces, and societal expectations. According to Clare, these ingrained beliefs—such as "I must always have the answers" or "I can't interrupt"—can limit growth, decision-making abilities, and overall leadership effectiveness.
Scientific research reveals that 95% of our thoughts and decisions are made by our subconscious mind, driven by deeply ingrained habits and beliefs (source: National Science Foundation). That’s why helping leaders shift their mindset is a critical part of coaching. Breaking these old patterns enables individuals to take control of their decisions and create a more dynamic, solution-oriented workplace.
Traditionally, leaders are expected to have all the answers. However, Clare argues that the best leaders don’t give solutions—they create environments where their teams can think critically and innovate independently. Coaching encourages leaders to transition from a problem-solving mindset to one that fosters empowerment and collaboration.
A study by McKinsey & Company found that organizations with strong coaching cultures see a 20% increase in employee engagement and overall performance (source: McKinsey, 2023). This is because coaching enhances self-awareness and problem-solving skills, allowing employees to take ownership of their growth and contribute more effectively to organizational success.
One of the most important insights Clare shared is the need for psychological safety in coaching and leadership. Leaders who feel safe to express their thoughts, admit mistakes, and take calculated risks are more likely to adapt and grow.
Google’s Project Aristotle found that psychological safety is the #1 factor in high-performing teams (source: Harvard Business Review). When leaders cultivate an open and trusting environment, employees feel more comfortable sharing ideas and working collaboratively toward solutions.
Coaches play a crucial role in this process by modeling active listening, creating a judgment-free space, and helping leaders reframe limiting beliefs. By fostering psychological safety, coaches can help organizations build more resilient and adaptable teams.
One of the most powerful coaching shifts Clare discusses is transitioning from "I must understand everything" to "I don’t need to understand, as long as the thinker does."
Instead of trying to control or diagnose every situation, coaches can guide leaders toward trusting their own ability to find solutions. This subtle yet powerful shift creates a culture of empowerment, where employees feel confident in their decision-making and leadership skills. According to Gallup, businesses with engaged employees outperform their competitors by 147% in earnings per share (source: Gallup, 2023). This demonstrates the value of fostering a growth mindset and encouraging leaders to take a coaching approach in their leadership style.
Great coaches continually invest in their own growth to better serve their clients. Clare recommends mentor coaching and supervision as two key tools for professional development.
By engaging in these reflective practices, coaches can enhance their ability to create transformational experiences for their clients, ensuring long-term success and impact.
Clare’s book, The Transformational Coach: Free Your Thinking and Breakthrough to Coaching Mastery, is a must-read for anyone looking to deepen their coaching practice and drive meaningful change in leadership development. As workplaces continue to evolve, coaching is becoming an essential tool for leadership transformation, enabling individuals to break old patterns, develop a growth mindset, and create lasting change.
At Delenta, we understand the power of coaching and its impact on leadership and personal development. Our all-in-one coaching platform is designed to help coaches streamline their business, engage more effectively with clients, and grow their impact. With tools for session scheduling, client management, and seamless communication, Delenta makes it easier for coaches to focus on what truly matters—helping their clients achieve transformational growth.
Discover how Delenta can elevate your coaching practice by signing up for a free trial today at www.delenta.com!
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