What does 'self-actualization' mean in coaching? A look at the 'who' and the 'what'

In my advanced coaching course, we're delving deep into the concept of "self-actualization" and how we can support our clients on this path.

At the professional level of coaching, there's a marked emphasis on uncovering and nurturing individuals' human potential. This involves gaining a deep understanding of who our clients are at their core and what they aspire to achieve in their lives.

In this blog, you'll learn about the meaning of self-actualization and explore the crucial distinction between the "who" and the "what." I'll also share insights into how the coaching process addresses and nurtures these two fundamental dimensions of personal development.

Let’s dive in.

Self-Realization: Embracing "The Who"

According to the International Coaching Federation (ICF), "the who" encompasses every facet that defines our unique identity.

It’s everything that makes us uniquely who we are as a person. It’s our innermost essence—our age, gender, ethnicity, culture, and nationality, as well as our worldview, beliefs, values, and approach to life. It reflects our upbringing, life experiences, preferred learning methods, and self-relationship.

I see “the who” as the mosaic of who you are at the core. Your being, not your doing. Your essence, not your accomplishments. In class, my instructor Beverly Sartain shared that in spiritual psychology, our “who” is called the "soul line" – a fitting name for the core of our existence.

So, when it comes to a coaching conversation and my approach, I like to get curious to learn about your worldview, values, and perspective. This connection forms the basis of the why driving your what. 

“The ‘What”: Our Goals, Dreams, and Ambitious

“The what” is all about our external self—our aspirations, endeavours, and accomplishments in various aspects of our lives, like school, career, finances, and social interactions.

It’s what people can see on the outside, not how we’re thinking, feeling, and being with ourselves on the inside. Described as the "goal line" in spiritual psychology, it encompasses our striving, doing, and dreams. 

In coaching, it's typical for people to focus on the "what" – their next career move, launching a business, or accumulating wealth. While these aspirations are perfectly fine, my role as a coach is to delve deeper. 

I aim to help my clients understand not just what they want to achieve, but why it matters on a deeper level and how it aligns with their true self.

Self-Actualization: Harmonizing "The Who" and "The What"

(Source: Holistic Coach Training Institute)

Self-actualization emerges from a deep understanding of our inner selves, which informs our external pursuits. Or put another way, the better we can understand our who, the easier it is to express it in what we’re doing. 

But why pursue this? 

When we’re on the path to self-actualization, we feel more creative, fulfilled, connected to our why, and resilient through ups and downs. We’re authentically living our lives and showing up in the world in a meaningful way. 

So, in a coaching conversation, I actively listen for what’s being expressed around the who and the what. If I notice one coming forward more than the other, my process is to get curious. 

And I’m curious not for my sake, but for my clients to tap into the undercurrent of their motivations and desires. 

Ultimately, my coaching approach is to harmonize the “who” and the “what together, to support your continued journey to self-actualization. 

Reach Your Full Potential With Coaching

Self-actualization is not merely about achieving external goals; it's about authentically understanding ourselves and aligning our actions with our inner truths. It's a journey of self-discovery and fulfillment that requires introspection, guidance, and commitment.

And I do want to underscore the word journey here. Self-actualization isn't a destination but a continual process of growth and alignment. By integrating your core identity with your aspirations, you can lead a deeply meaningful life. 

If you're seeking support in navigating your own path toward self-actualization, I invite you to reach out. Let's partner up, so you can enjoy the benefits of living in alignment with who you are and what dreams you want to achieve. 

References

• PCC Markers - International Coaching Federation. (2023, September 12). International Coaching Federation. Retrieved January 28, 2024, from https://coachingfederation.org/credentials-and-standards/performance-evaluations/pcc-markers

• Holistic Coach Training Institute – ICF Accredited Holistic Coach Certification Program. (n.d.). Retrieved January 28, 2024, from https://holisticcoachtraininginstitute.com/