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  • Writer's pictureChristine Myers Certified VA

Seven Characteristics of a Successful Life Coach


male with a tablet meeting with a female facing him

Life coaches assist their clients in achieving specific and focused personal and professional goals. They are invaluable to anyone looking to make a change in their lives. A successful life coach is passionate about helping others achieve their goals and live happier, more fulfilled lives.


Whether you are just starting your coaching career or if you have been practicing for several years, developing certain characteristics will help you be a successful coach.

Here are the seven different characteristics that most successful life coaches share:

Passionate About Helping Others

A successful life coach is passionate about helping others reach their goals. They are truly dedicated to the work that they do and will go out of their way to support them

clients along the way.

Excellent Communication Skills

A life coach needs strong communication skills to build effective relationships with their clients. This means listening carefully and responding effectively, both verbally and through non-verbal communication. It also includes asking the right questions to help them clarify their thoughts and feelings and helpful relaying information back to your clients in an effective way.

Good Organization and Time-Management Skills

A successful life coach is well organized and manages their time effectively. They need to be able to juggle multiple tasks and deadlines and keep on top of their own personal and professional commitments. You will likely have many clients at once, so it's crucial that you efficiently manage all of their appointments, sessions, and reviews. Balancing multiple projects and tasks may seem challenging at first, but as you practice these skills over time, they will become second nature.

Great Problem Solvers

Additionally, a good life coach needs excellent problem-solving skills. You need to assess the obstacles and roadblocks that your clients may face and then develop solutions that address those issues.


A Positive Attitude

A successful life coach approaches their work with a positive attitude. They believe in their clients’ ability to achieve their goals and always remain optimistic and encouraging.

A Strong Work Ethic

A successful life coach is willing to put in the demanding work necessary to help clients reach their potential. As a result, life coaches are highly motivated and always looking for ways to improve their skills and knowledge.

High Emotional Intelligence

To be a successful life coach, they need to understand and manage their own emotions and their clients. They know how to create a supportive environment where their clients can feel safe exploring their feelings and working through challenges.

If considering life coaching as a business idea or already working as one, make sure you have or develop these seven characteristics. They will help you achieve success and support your clients.

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