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Jaime Matthews Real Life Coaching hero image - coaching session introduction

What to Expect From Coaching

A supportive, judgment-free space for clarity, growth, and forward movement

A supportive, judgment-free space for clarity, growth, and forward movement

If you’ve ever felt curious about coaching but unsure what actually happens in a session, you’re not alone. Many people hesitate because they don’t want to be judged, pushed too hard, or expected to have everything figured out.

Coaching with me is about creating a safe, grounded space where you can slow down, sort through the noise, and reconnect with what matters most to you. You don’t need to show up “ready” or polished — just willing to be honest and open to growth.

This page will walk you through what coaching looks like, how to prepare, and how to get the most out of the process.

What Is a Coaching Session?

Coach listening attentively to client in supportive conversation

A coaching session is a focused, intentional conversation designed to help you gain clarity, awareness, and direction. Sessions may take place in person, over the phone, or via video — whichever format best supports you.

Coaching is a partnership. You bring your lived experience, challenges, and goals. I bring structure, curiosity, and questions that help you see things more clearly and from new perspectives.

Together, we:

  • Clarify what you’re working through

  • Identify patterns or blocks that may be holding you back

  • Explore aligned options and next steps

  • Build accountability and momentum between sessions

While each session is unique, the goal is always the same: to support meaningful, sustainable growth — on your terms.

Types of Coaching Support

While coaching sessions follow a similar structure, the focus can vary depending on your needs. Some common areas coaching supports include:

  • Life vision and personal growth

  • Leadership and confidence development

  • Career transitions and workplace challenges

  • Boundary setting and relationship dynamics

  • Business and entrepreneurial support

  • Performance, mindset, and resilience

  • Health, wellness, and balance

Many clients find their sessions naturally blend multiple areas — because real life doesn’t fit neatly into one category.

What Happens During a Coaching Session

Person journaling during self-reflection for personal growth

Most sessions last 30–60 minutes.

We typically begin by grounding into the present moment and setting an intention for the session. You might hear questions like:

  • What’s been coming up for you lately?

  • What feels most important to focus on today?

  • What would make this session feel supportive or successful?

From there, I’ll ask thoughtful, open-ended questions to help deepen awareness and explore possibilities. These questions are designed to move beyond surface-level answers and into meaningful insight.You may also be guided through simple reflection tools such as:

  • Identifying values or priorities

  • Rating the impact of a situation

  • Exploring future possibilities

  • Noticing communication or behavior patterns

My role is not to fix or rescue you — it’s to support you in accessing your own insight, strengths, and clarity.

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Person standing in open space feeling empowered and hopeful

Your Role in the Coaching Process

Coaching works best when you’re actively engaged. While I guide the process, you are the one creating the change.

To get the most out of coaching:

  • Be open to new perspectives

  • Take responsibility for your growth

  • Set honest goals, even if they feel unclear

  • Allow space for vulnerability when appropriate

  • Take action between sessions

  • Reflect on what’s working and what isn’t

  • Commit to showing up consistently and honestly

You don’t need to have all the answers — that’s what the process is for.

How to Prepare for a Coaching Session

Taking 10–15 minutes before your session can make a big difference.

Set an Intention

Before your session, consider:

  • What’s been weighing on me lately?

  • What feels challenging or stuck?

  • What progress or wins can I acknowledge?

If you’re unsure what you need, that’s okay. Clarity often emerges during the conversation.

If personal topics come up and you’re unsure how to bring them forward, you can simply say:

  • “I’ve been feeling overwhelmed and it’s affecting how I show up.”

  • “Something personal has been coming up, and I think it’s connected to what I’m experiencing.”

Preparing Your Mindset

How you show up mentally matters.

Right before your session, check in with yourself:

  • Is my mind racing? Pause and take a few slow breaths.

  • Am I feeling resistant or guarded? That may be worth exploring.

  • Am I fully present? Silence notifications and distractions.

Coaching is about discovery, not perfection. Curiosity goes a long way.

Practical Tips for Your Session

To make the most of your time:

  • Choose a session time when you won’t feel rushed

  • Find a quiet, private space

  • Have a notebook handy for insights or reflections

  • Keep previous notes or action steps accessible

Small preparations can create a more grounded, impactful experience.

How to Get the Most Value From Coaching

Coaching is an investment in yourself. You’ll get the most from it when you:

  • Share progress and challenges honestly

  • Follow through on agreed-upon steps

  • Communicate what’s working and what’s not

  • Allow yourself to grow at your own pace

Growth happens both during sessions and in the space between them.

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Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you’re curious about coaching and want to explore whether it’s the right fit, I offer a free consultation. This is simply a conversation — no pressure, no obligation.

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We’ll talk about where you are, what you’re hoping for, and whether working together feels aligned.

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👉 Schedule your free consultation
or
📧 Reach out directly at jaime@reallifecoachingllc.com

 

You don’t have to do this alone — support is available when you’re ready.

Real Life Coaching, LLC

Empowering women and couples to grow,

rebuild, and thrive.

Start your journey today - Book a free consultation

(231) 218-6696

Waterford, MI

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©2017 by Real Life Coaching LLC | All rights reserved

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