The Science Behind the Four Cornerstones of Co-Active Coaching

Co-Active Coaching is a powerful, holistic approach to personal development that integrates contemporary neuroscience to foster transformative results.

I decided to train in Co-Active Coaching because of its holistic approach and the fact that it is seen as the gold standard in the industry for professional coaching development. When someone comes to me for coaching, I fully appreciate that it is no small undertaking. They are investing their time, energy and money into changing their lives for the better. My role as their coach is to serve them in the best possible way I can. I want my clients to know that the approach I take is rooted in evidence-based scientific research. Here, I delve into the science behind the four cornerstones of Co-Active Coaching, which demonstrates why this type of coaching is so effective.

1. People Are Naturally Creative, Resourceful, and Whole

I believe people are naturally creative, resourceful and whole, meaning they can and should find their own answers and do not need fixing. I carry a fundamental view that we are inherently undamaged, capable and inventive.

Scientific Basis:

• Positive Psychology: Martin Seligman’s research in positive psychology supports this belief. Focusing on individuals' strengths and inherent capabilities enhances their well-being and performance.

• Self-Determination Theory: Developed by Deci and Ryan, this theory suggests that people have intrinsic psychological needs for autonomy, competence, and relatedness, which drive their growth and fulfilment.

• Neuroplasticity: The brain’s capacity to form new neural connections reinforces the idea that individuals can develop and enhance their capabilities over time. This supports the notion that people are inherently resourceful and capable of growth.

2. Dance in This Moment

The second cornerstone is dance in this moment, which means that I respond to my clients in the present moment and ensure I stay connected to them and where the conversation (or dance) needs to go - all whilst holding a focus and intention for the client’s forward movement, learning and agenda. There is evidence according to research by HeartMath Institute that the presence of a coach has a profound effect on the client. When the coach is present, flexible and open, they bring a more coherent energetic field which positively impacts the client bringing them a greater sense of calm and efficacy. Numerous studies have shown that paying mindful attention to what is happening in the moment develops integrative fibres in the brain which increases empathy, focus, and the ability to recover from stress (Siegel 2010). The place I coach from, with its unique energy, plays a crucial role in this dance. It’s not just what I say or how I listen, but also where I am and how the energy of that place flows through me to influence each session.  

Scientific Basis:

• Mindfulness and Presence: Mindfulness practices improve empathy, emotional regulation, and resilience. Being present and fully engaged with clients creates a supportive and attuned environment (Siegel, 2010).

• HeartMath Institute Research: Studies by the HeartMath Institute show that a coach’s coherent energetic field, achieved through mindfulness, can positively influence the client’s physiological state, promoting calm and efficacy.

• Mirror Neurons: These neurons play a crucial role in empathy and understanding others’ emotions and actions. A coach’s presence and attunement can activate mirror neurons, fostering a deeper connection and mutual understanding.

3. Focus on the Whole Person

By focusing on the whole person (third cornerstone) I am trained to work with the entire heart, mind, body and spirit of my client. So what this means is that rather than just focusing on each problem a person might bring to coaching, I look to understand their entire being. By focusing past the surface-level issue or challenge, I invite the client to explore both thoughts and feelings and give voice to gut reactions. This approach helps to integrate the left and right hemispheres of the brain which opens up new solutions and creativity.

Scientific Basis:

• Holistic Integration: The biopsychosocial model considers biological, psychological, and social factors in understanding health and behaviour. A holistic approach aligns with this model.

• Hemispheric Integration: Engaging both the analytical (left brain) and creative (right brain) aspects enhances problem-solving and creativity by enabling clients to access a broader range of cognitive resources.

• Emotional Intelligence: Daniel Goleman’s work on emotional intelligence highlights the importance of understanding and integrating emotions to improve interpersonal relationships and decision-making.

4. Evoke Transformation

Finally, my job as a coach is to evoke transformation in my clients which is why it’s the fourth cornerstone of Co-Active Coaching. I am committed to helping my clients create lasting, sustainable change. There is significant scientific proof for the idea that the brain demonstrates ‘neuroplasticity’ which means that the more we do something, the more we can rewire our brains and our thoughts. The more the pathway is used, the stronger it becomes. What you focus on, really does grow. The default of our brain is to go with pathways that are already developed, which is why it’s much harder to make changes in our lives without focused, supported and intentional effort. This is why working with a coach is so helpful!

Scientific Basis:

• Neuroplasticity: The concept of neuroplasticity underlines that the brain can change and adapt in response to new experiences and learning. Repeated actions strengthen neural pathways, making new behaviours more automatic.

• Behavioural Change Models: Prochaska and DiClemente’s Stages of Change model highlights the processes involved in making lasting changes, including the need for support and intentional effort.

• Focus and Attention: Research shows that what we focus on grows stronger in our brains. Consistent focus on positive goals and behaviours reinforces new neural pathways, making desired changes more likely to occur.

Conclusion

Co-Active Coaching is a highly effective approach supported by contemporary neuroscience and psychological theories. By leveraging intrinsic human capabilities, maintaining presence, addressing the whole person, and facilitating neuroplasticity, Co-Active Coaching provides a robust framework for achieving profound and lasting change.

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