Coaching Beyond Comfort: Why Advocacy Belongs in Our Conversations
Apr 29, 2025When the World Divides, Can Coaches Unite?
In today’s world, polarization is more than a political buzzword—it’s a pervasive perspective. Coaches are increasingly witnessing clients wrestle with identity, justice, and belonging. In the face of such complexity, can we stay neutral? Should we? Or is there a more powerful way to stand in our integrity without crossing ethical lines?
Professional coaching was born out of the idea of client-centered exploration. But in an uncertain world, being fully client-centered also means acknowledging the systems our clients live and work within. Advocacy in coaching isn’t about directing clients to a specific cause or belief—it’s about creating space where values matter.
We advocate not for positions, but for people—for their dignity, agency, and growth. When we name injustice, challenge bias, or hold space for difficult truths, we are still being coaches. In fact, we may be doing some of our most transformative work.
"Coaching is not about taking sides—it’s about standing for humanity."
I invite you take a few minutes to share your thoughts here on this question,
Where am I being called to stand—as a speaker, listener, a leader, and a catalyst?
It will bring deeper conversation to our upcoming webinar,
The Role of Advocacy in Coaching
ICF Ethics, Values and DEI in an Uncertain and Polarized World
đź“… May 13th at 2pmET
