Why New Coaches Struggle and How a Mentor Can Make all the Difference

Starting out as a new coach can be both exciting and overwhelming. You’ve just invested in your training, you’re passionate about helping others, and you’re dreaming of a fulfilling career doing meaningful work. But then reality sets in. You’re not quite sure how to structure your sessions, you're second-guessing yourself constantly, and impostor syndrome creeps in. Sound familiar?

This is a common experience for many new coaches. The truth is, coaching is more than just having great conversations; it's about building a skillset, navigating human complexity, holding emotional space, and running a business all at once. It’s no wonder so many new coaches hit a wall of self-doubt and confusion, especially in the first year.

Without support, this is often where new coaches lose momentum. They might stop offering sessions, delay putting themselves out there, or constantly tweak their niche without ever really getting started. Many even abandon coaching altogether, not because they weren’t capable, but because they lacked guidance during the most vulnerable stage of the journey.

This is where having a mentor can make all the difference.

A mentor is someone who’s walked the path ahead of you. They understand the doubts, the awkward first sessions, the wobbly confidence, and the growing pains of putting your work into the world. They don’t just offer encouragement, they offer perspective, practical tools, and grounded insight that can shortcut your learning curve by years.

With a mentor, you have the opportunity to process your client sessions, reflect on areas for growth, and receive feedback in a safe and constructive manner. You’re no longer stuck in your own head wondering, “Am I doing this right?” Instead, you gain clarity on how to refine your approach, build trust in your unique style, and stay connected to your “why.”

Mentoring for new coaches also provides accountability! Not in a pressure-filled way, but in a steady, supportive rhythm that helps you keep going when things get hard. When you’re mentored, you’re less likely to give up when you feel unsure, and more likely to see your skills and confidence deepen over time.

The early stages of becoming a coach are a time of immense transformation, not just professionally but personally. You're not just learning how to help others; you're also learning how to hold space for yourself. Having someone by your side during that process can be the difference between burnout and breakthrough.

So, if you're a new coach who feels stuck, lost, or unsure if you’re cut out for this work, know that you're not alone. Every great coach was once in your shoes. And every great coach grows faster, deeper, and more sustainably when they’re supported.

Ready to feel supported as you grow into the coach you want to be? If you’re a student coach or newly qualified coach craving guidance, encouragement, and grounded feedback, mentoring might be exactly what you need. Let’s connect on a free call to explore where you’re at, what you need, and whether this support feels like the right fit for you.

Mentoring for new coaches

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