For young adults (16 – 24 year olds), life can seem confusing, demanding, and overwhelming. These feelings can translate into lack of motivation, low self-confidence, and a desire for guidance that is often in conflict with the need for independence. As a concerned older adult, watching young people go through this stage can be frustrating, especially when they appear to ignore or disregard your advice and hard-earned wisdom!
For some young people and families, coaching can be a great solution to this dilemma. Youth work with an older adult who cares about them, but brings a more objective perspective to their situation. For concerned families and friends, a coach can help bridge the communication gap by working with all the parties to facilitate dialogue and create accountability structures.
Coaching sessions focus on creating goals and laying out the steps necessary to accomplish those goals. I support young people in using their strengths and interests to determine their next steps in life, designing their own system of accountability, and developing decision-making processes and tools that work for them.
Whether they are interested in college, a career, or just aren’t sure, coaching is a way to demonstrate your support and understanding. We all work together to create a contract of accountability and then meet occasionally to track progress. I and the young adult work together more frequently to develop tools, build communication skills, and work on goal-setting and personal accountability.
The end result is a plan created by the
young person and their supporting network that defines goals, responsibilities,
and accountability for action. For young people, making their own decisions
and take charge of their lives can be a daunting task. Support them and
take some of the pressure off yourself – contact
Marie today!
