Experts on Life: Are Women of Color Missing Out?

The power of life coaching is beyond measure! Coaching is increasingly becoming the new “get your life in order” strategy for many people and women in particular. So, what’s so magical or appealing about coaching, and who seems to be taking advantage of it? According to various reports on life coaching it came on the scene about 25 years ago and in the last 10 years has been an explosive field. I still get a lot of questions about coaching and people are curious about how coaching works. But my question is, “are women of color taking advantage of the wonderful experience of coaching?”

Historically, African American women have “avoided” situations where they have to “tell their business” to anyone outside of the family. Based on my personal and professional experiences I would feel confident saying Latina, Asian and Native American women share this same sentiment. There is something unsettling about sitting in a room sharing your deepest thoughts and life issues with a “stranger.” In my life journey, I’ve realized one thing for sure, most women of color still struggle with any activites related to counseling. Why is that?

As a counselor and coach I know the value of the work. I also know once women take the first courageous step and settle into the process they too realize the wonderful benefits of engaging with an objective person about how to live a better life. When we look closely at mainstream media we see various coaches and experts on life. I have to stop and think about how many of those experts or coaches are people of color and does that have any bearing on who women of color deem who they perceive to be experts on life. If there were more “experts of color” in the media would that make a difference?

So I pose a question for you. Do you think women of color are seeking coaching across the nation? If not, I wonder why this is the case. Ok, here’s another question. If they are not seeking such services at the same rate as white women, why not?

The lives of women of color are not perfect. We have life challenges and obstacles to overcome just like anyone else. Most importantly, I know deep in my soul that women of color want to live their best lives too! So, I would love to hear your insight on this issue. If you are a life coach of color who are your predominant clients? If you are a woman of color do you know the value of life coaching? If you have not considered counseling or coaching to help you become your best self, why?

Let’s demystify this issue!

By Catrice Jackson