Yellowstone Valley Woman Magazine February/March 2010 : Page 41
troubled movie stars and the hope of down-and-out celebrities. It’s a constant theme for self-help talk shows. Stars like Oprah, Jennifer Aniston and Demi Moore have all reportedly A used a life coach. It seems so “Hollywood”, but right here in Billings, life coaches are helping ordinary women fi nd their unique purpose, reach their goals and find joy, peace and contentment in their lives. “Having a life coach is like having a personal trainer, except instead of physical fi tness, the coach is helping you get to your best you from the inside out,” says Shelley Hayes, one of several life coaches practicing in Billings. So, why would you need a life coach? Th ese professionals offer support in reaching career and personal goals as well as tackling life’s diffi cult transitions. Although the use of a life coach is gaining in popularity, few people know exactly what it is. Sometimes, it’s easier to tell people what life coaching is by telling them what it isn’t. Unlike psychotherapy or counseling, which is past focused, life coaching is present and future focused. It’s putting your dreams into action. Clients are expected to do what Shelley calls “fi eldwork,” putting to practice what they’re learning during the coaching sessions. “Coaching is bringing the answer out of somebody, not giving advice, but helping guide people along to fi nd their own answers,” Shelley says. “So many people just don’t know how to listen to themselves.” A good life coach listens and asks powerful, thought-evoking questions. “It’s a professional relationship,” says Evey LaMont, another Billings life coach. “But it’s like talking to a close friend who has some expertise and 41 t fi rst glance, life coaching seems like a luxury for Professionals For Over 45 Years Insurance Work is Our Specialty HOURS: 8am-5pm Mon - Fri FREE ESTIMATES 1845 Lampman Drive • Billings Hank Gabel, Owner 406.652.1440
