Health Coaches Academy
Top Tips from Students
As you begin your exciting journey into health coaching, we know how valuable it is to hear from those who've been in your shoes. That's why we asked some of our current HCA students to share their top tips for success - insights they wish they'd known when starting out.
​
From staying organised and time blocking to making the most out of your learning experience, here's what they had to say:
"Plan, plan, plan"
Getting an accountability buddy can be really helpful, and I suggest having a clear structure, so you don’t end up just chatting. Agree on a time limit, e.g. 30 minutes. Allow 10 minutes each, one just listening and the other stating what they are struggling with, and 5 minutes each to respond.
​
You may well get Imposter Syndrome, and that is perfectly normal, but don’t let it consume you and stop you from doing the practice coaching sessions. Everyone, including the mentors, had to start from the beginning, and it’s mainly through the “doing” that you will gain your belief and confidence. Trust that you are doing your best and will get better.
​
Plan, plan, plan. Mark those webinars and student sessions into your diary sooner rather than later to block out that time. Factor in your study time, and it’s not a perfect science, so be realistic with your availability. And if life gets in the way occasionally, don’t beat yourself up (or someone else). Enjoy, have fun, be proud of yourself, and acknowledge your progress and every single win. You are changing yourself and the world for the better!
Michelle
"Print some course materials"
Print some course materials, which is an excellent way to escape the screen. Then, chunk out time each week.
​
Also, don’t take on too many volunteers. Remember that it’s not a degree, so you don’t need to go overboard on your assignments, which some have struggled with. So, remember the word count and keep your answer on point. I hope that helps.
Laura
"Imagine the end vision"
Forget what you know and what you think you know about health and wellness. Go into this course with a new and open mindset.
Practise what you learn to see that the knowledge you have gained really works in your own life. Be kind to yourself. There will be days when you feel nervous, anxious, frustrated, and even like giving up. Press on and asking for help is not a weakness. You learn so much from fellow students and from the ladies at Student Support. I speak from my experience in this regard. Just imagine the end vision of accomplishment, pride and having your own business changing the world one person at a time. You’ve got this!
Mechelle
"Prepare and motivate yourself"
Prepare and motivate yourself.
Beautiful notepads, pens, lever arch files. Check your start date and time block your diary. Really think about when you could study but be prepared to be flexible as life happens. Make sure your PC is updated, and your printer works!
And enjoy the course as it’s amazing!
Rebekah
"Time block and stick to the training modules"
So, my top tips would be: -
Take some time to get really familiar with the Academy early on, because it’s brilliant, but initially you need to navigate where everything is and what it all means.
Time block and stick the training modules and assignments in sequence. The structure is superb, so trust the process as it’s all laid out for you so that you are presented with exactly what you are supposed to do, and when.
Reach out whenever you are unsure of anything.
​
Connect with your cohort as soon as possible. Don’t be shy because people like it if you reach out independently and connect!
Do your reflections as soon as you attend the live events so that you feel confident you are up to date. I got some books and some audio books. I am currently revisiting the first audiobook. I listened to the audiobook in the car on my many travels to see my parents or on the way to the hospital to visit my dad and it was a great way of fitting in some learning and staying present with my daily life during a time where my routine was changeable. Trust you’ll still manage when life doesn’t run in a smooth line.
​
Find ways which will work for you and trust in the journey. Embrace the coaching practice as we’re all learners so let go of thinking you need to be an expert straight away.
Most of all, enjoy!
Niki
"Do try to attend the 3-day In Person Live Event….it can change your life!"
Jo
"PRIORITISE FUN and SELF-CARE!"
Philippa
"Keep a daily reflection diary"
Try to be really present during the calls (core support, connect and support calls, etc) and listen and learn at every opportunity because this all adds up to making you an amazing coach over time.
Participate and give of yourself and you will get so much (more) out of it yourself as well. And keep a daily reflection diary (to jot down one or two lines – this only takes a minute but is well worth it).