"A coach is someone who comes alongside to help others find their focus--and you can be that someone in the lives of others," say the authors of this how-to book for coaches and would-be coaches. If you have a passion to help others become all they can be, particularly in ministry settings, this book was written with you in mind.

Some things coaching is not, according to the authors:

* Coaching is not about giving advice. People already know what they need to work on. It's about support. They want to know they don't have to navigate the difficulties of life on their own.

* Coaching is not a matter of authority. In some cases, a coach may be more experienced in an particular area than the person being coached, but not always. Sometimes a peer coaching relationship works best. Sometimes we just need an outside set of eyes and ears to give us a sense of perspective.

* Coaching isn't about being an expert. It's not about listening to the coach; it's about helping others learn to listen to God for themselves.

By putting into practice the basic coaching skills outlined in this book, you can have a significant impact on the lives of others and on the work God has called you to do.


Robert E. Logan is the executive director of CoachNet International Ministries and provides training, consulting, coaching, and resources to over 40 denominations. Sherilyn Carlton is an experienced life and leadership coach through her business Destination Coaching.