ICF Core Competency 2: Embodies a Coaching Mindset

A coaching mindset is the fertile soil where growth begins.

When you think about soil, “exciting” may not be the first word that comes to mind. Dirt looks plain, even dull. But dig a little deeper, and you find an entire universe: roots threading through darkness, fungi whispering nutrients from one plant to another, billions of microorganisms trading energy and sustaining life. It’s invisible magic—quiet, essential, astonishing.

Coaching works the same way. Active listening, powerful questioning, goal setting—those are the branches we all see. But the hidden foundation? That’s the coaching mindset. Without it, the branches weaken. With it, they thrive in ways that are vibrant, resilient, and surprising.

That’s why the International Coaching Federation (ICF) highlights Embodies a Coaching Mindset as Core Competency #2. Because it’s not just about using techniques; it’s about cultivating the unseen richness that makes those techniques transformative.

So what exactly is this mindset, and how do you keep it alive and fertile?

In this article, we’ll unearth what it means to embody a coaching mindset, how it shows up in real sessions, and practices to keep your soil brimming with life. 🌱

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