The term “life coach” has only recently gained popularity in the modern world, but the concept of seeking guidance and support for personal development has been around for centuries.
The roots of the word “coach” come from the Hungarian town of Kocs, where horse-drawn carriages called “kocsi szekér” were first developed in the 15th century. The word eventually made its way into English, and by the 17th century, “coach” referred to a private tutor or mentor who provided instruction and guidance.
The term “life coaching” can be traced back to the 1940s, when psychologist John Whitmore developed a coaching method called “GROW” (Goals, Reality, Options, Will) to help individuals achieve their goals and overcome personal challenges. In the 1980s, Thomas Leonard, a pioneer in the field of personal coaching, began using the term “life coaching” to describe his work with clients.
The meaning of the term “life coaching” has evolved over time to encompass a wide range of services, including helping individuals set and achieve goals, overcome challenges, and improve their overall well-being. Today, life coaches work with clients on a variety of issues, including career development, relationships, and personal growth.