The Dark Side of Coaching: Balancing Cultural Sensitivity and Wellbeing

I recently stumbled upon this gem of an article on LinkedIn: The Dark Side of Coaching. It was short and succinct, speaking to an issue at the heart of coaching. As coaches, we are trained to always put our clients first, but in doing so, we must not lose sight of our own wellbeing and ongoing education.

Upon further reflection, I will also add a perspective that’s close to my heart – culture. I agree wholeheartedly with the article's discussion on the impact of performance or outcome-based goals on client's wellbeing. There have been occasions where I too have been guilty of the ‘eye on the prize’ mentality.

How Performance-Based Goals Affect Wellbeing: A Cultural Perspective

It's essential to understand that wellbeing is perceived through a cultural lens, meaning different cultures have varying definitions and priorities regarding wellbeing. For instance, in some cultures, collective success and harmony are valued over individual achievements. This cultural perspective influences how clients perceive their goals and the stress associated with them.

Years ago, during a supervision meeting, a fellow coach discussed a case where a Chinese client expressed concerns about taking a gap year. As an Australian, my colleague initially encouraged the idea, exploring its pros and cons. It wasn’t until a few sessions later that my colleague realised the client's worries were not personal but related to how future employers in China might negatively perceive the gap in their CV. This story highlights the importance of understanding cultural contexts in coaching.

We exist in an interconnected, rules-based world, and it is imperative that as coaches, we view our clients holistically. This means considering their cultural backgrounds and ensuring we address their overall wellbeing, not just their goals.

Why Culture Matters: Diverse Perspectives on Wellbeing and Success

1. Diverse Definitions of Success: In Western cultures, success is often measured by individual accomplishments and financial gain, whereas, in many Asian cultures, success may be more closely tied to family harmony and social status.

2. Stress and Coping Mechanisms: Different cultures have distinct ways of dealing with stress. For example, some cultures may emphasise community support and collective problem-solving, while others may prioritise personal resilience and self-reliance.

3. Health and Lifestyle Practices: Cultural backgrounds influence health practices, dietary habits, and lifestyle choices, all of which are integral to a person's overall wellbeing.

Culturally Sensitive Coaching: Enhancing Wellbeing and Success

By continuously educating ourselves and adopting a holistic, culturally sensitive approach, we can better serve our clients and maintain our own wellbeing in this demanding profession. This ensures we address the complete spectrum of our clients' needs, fostering a more supportive and comprehensive coaching experience.