Ready For Your First Coaching Session? Here's How to Prepare
If you're about to have your first coaching session—congratulations!
You’ve taken a big step toward growth, clarity, and meaningful change. But you might also be wondering: “What exactly am I supposed to do before my first session?”
“Should I come with goals? A problem? Or just show up and wing it?” You’re not alone. Many first-time coaching clients feel the same way. The truth is, a little preparation can go a long way. It helps you get clarity faster, go deeper sooner, and walk away feeling like, “Wow, that was powerful.”
Here are 7 simple tips to help you prepare and make your first session a success:
1. Get Clear on Why You Said Yes
What made you say yes to coaching in the first place? Was it something you want to change in your life? A goal you’re tired of putting off? A feeling that you’re meant for more? You don’t need to have all the answers. But take a few minutes to write down why you're here. Your reason will give your coach a starting point—and it will keep you grounded when the work gets real.
2. Come with One Focus Area
Coaching isn’t therapy. It’s not about talking for hours.
It’s about progress. Pick one area of your life or mindset you’d love to make better. Maybe it’s:
- Your confidence
- A toxic habit you want to break
- Your ability to follow through
- A dream you’ve been sitting on
Start with one thing. That’s how momentum begins.
3. Be Honest—With Yourself and Your Coach
Your coach isn’t here to judge you. They’re here to help you win.
The more open and real you are, the faster your breakthrough comes. So if you’re confused, say so. If you're scared or stuck or unsure, own it.
This is a safe space for your truth.
4. Bring a Notebook or Journal
Whether it’s on your phone or in a notebook, come ready to take notes.
You might hear a powerful insight, a breakthrough question, or an “aha!” moment you don’t want to forget. Also, writing things down helps you process them more deeply.
5. Give Yourself a Quiet Space (and Show Up on Time)
Coaching requires focus.
If you're distracted, multitasking, or in a noisy space, it’s harder to get value from the session. Find a quiet spot, turn off notifications, and give yourself the gift of being fully present.
6. Don’t Try to Impress—This Isn’t a Performance
Your coach doesn’t need you to “have it all together.”
You don’t need to sound smart, act strong, or pretend everything is fine. You’re here to grow, not perform. Come as you are. That’s more than enough.
7. Trust the Process
You might feel a little awkward at first. That’s okay.
You may not walk away with all the answers. That’s okay too. But if you show up open, honest, and ready to take even one small step forward, your life will start to shift.
Final Thought: You're Worth The Investment
Coaching isn’t about fixing you—it’s about helping you access the best version of you.
And just by showing up, you’re already ahead of most people who never take that first step. So breathe. Show up. Be real.
And let your first session be the beginning of something powerful.
