9 key reasons why workplace wellbeing benefits from external coaching input

1. Wellbeing is unique for each individual

At Improveon we have defined wellbeing and developed our CANBE model to provide a strategic framework for measuring and improving wellbeing. However within this framework we also understand that wellbeing is unique to each individual. To provide an example: Each person will have unique values, beliefs, character strengths and personality but everyone will benefit from gaining a greater understanding of these things to help them create meaning and purpose in their lives.
Coaching, with its focus on asking questions and following the coachee(s) agenda is the ideal approach for recognising this individuality in each person’s wellbeing. It also adapts brilliantly to different learning styles and aids motivation when people can see that the outputs are directly relevant to their job.

2. Wellbeing is about the whole person

Wellbeing, including mental, emotional, physical, spiritual, social, cultural,  environmental and economic elements, is about all aspects of a persons life. When it comes to discussing sensitive issues external coaching can offer individuals greater confidentiality and objectivity than an internal coaching programme. The coaching approach is also flexible enough to deal with all of these different elements.

3. Wellbeing is about dealing with change and being resilient

The ability to learn and adapt is an essential skill. Coaching helps individuals become more resilient through focusing on their successes, exploring all of their options, developing support networks and planning optimistically on how to overcome obstacles.

4. Wellbeing is a longer term state

You don’t just go on a training programme and get more immediate wellbeing. Wellbeing takes time to develop and can fluctuate depending on a persons attitude, circumstances and environment. Coaching is a longer term intervention and recognises that real change takes time. In this way it can be an extremely useful support to other interventions, like training, to embed personal development.

5. Wellbeing is about achievement

Accomplishing things makes us feel good and builds confidence. Coaching is a goal focused solution that helps individuals, teams and organisations get where they want to be quicker than if they’d been working alone.

6. Wellbeing is about growth

Doing the same thing day after day without any opportunities for learning and growth means we stagnate. Stretching outside our comfort zone helps us move forward and experience new things. Coaching encourages us to set stretch goals and grow through new experiences which is good for wellbeing.

7. Wellbeing is about having a good support network

The strength of our social network is perhaps one of the biggest contributors to our wellbeing. A coach can be a strong pillar of support amongst that social network. For leaders, who may feel isolated at the top, external coaching can provide excellent objective and confidential support.

8. Wellbeing is about ‘we’ as well as ‘me’

Our wellbeing is inextricably connected to the wellbeing of those around us and the planet on which we live. Coaching, using a systemic approach, can help individuals, teams and organisations think more clearly about these connections and ways of building a more balanced approach. Coaching can be delivered to individuals, managers, teams and leaders to help achieve change at all levels throughout an organisation.

9. Wellbeing is about enriching lives

Through better managing our thoughts, feelings and behaviours we can lead more enriching lives and help others do the same. In fact, helping others improves our wellbeing and theirs! Coaching helps us explore and change our thoughts, feelings and behaviours to enrich our lives and the lives of others. This could include things like overcoming negative beliefs, managing our feelings better or changing our limiting behaviours.

The coaching itself may also encourage the ‘coachee’ to become more of a coach to those around them. Developing a coaching culture, which implies deeper listening and questioning, also encourages better conversations that lead to greater creativity, empathy and ultimately results.

If you’d like to find out more about how external coaching can help you develop greater personal, team or organisational wellbeing contact David for a no obligation discussion.

Free resources

Explore these (mainly free) wellbeing resources now to see if there are any that can help you with your wellbeing. You’ll find apps, books, tools, videos and more.