5 Key Traits Every Successful Teen Life Coach Should Have

As a coach who loves working with teens (and has been working with teens for the past 20 years) I've learned a thing or two about what it takes to really make an impact in their lives. It's not just about having a bunch of fancy techniques or a long list of credentials (though those can help), it's about who you are and how you connect with these amazing young individuals.

Through my journey as a teen empowerment coach, mentor, speaker and author I’ve discovered that certain traits can make all the difference in building successful, transformative relationships with teens. Let’s dive into what I consider the top five traits every successful teen life coach should have. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been at this for a while, reflecting on these traits might give you some fresh insights into your own coaching style. So, grab a cup of your favorite drink, and let's chat about what makes a truly great teen life coach!

Empathy

Alright, let's talk about empathy. This is a big one! Empathy is all about understanding and really feeling what your teen clients are going through. It's like putting yourself in their shoes and seeing the world from their eyes. And trust me, teens have a knack for sensing whether you're genuinely empathetic or just going through the motions.

Empathy is super important because it helps you build trust with your clients. When they feel understood and validated, they're more likely to open up and share what's really on their minds. This is where the magic happens in coaching – when teens feel safe enough to express their true thoughts and feelings.

So how do you show empathy? Listen – and I mean really listen. Not just to their words, but to their emotions and body language too. Acknowledge their feelings, even if they're different from your own. A simple “I can see why that would be upsetting” can go a long way.

Remember, teens are often dealing with a lot of internal and external pressures, from school stress to figuring out who they are. Showing that you get it, even if you're not in their shoes right now, is powerful. It bridges gaps and creates a connection that's essential for effective coaching.

So, keep empathy at the heart of your coaching practice. It's the key to meaningful conversations and can truly make a difference in a young person's life.

Patience

Moving on to patience – this one's a game-changer. When you’re working with teens, patience isn’t just a virtue; it’s a necessity. Remember, adolescence is a roller coaster of emotions and changes. One day your client might make huge leaps forward, and the next, they might seem to take a few steps back. That’s totally normal.

Being patient means giving your clients space and time to grow at their own pace. It's about understanding that every teen is on a unique journey and that meaningful change often takes time. It can be tempting to want quick results, especially when you see so much potential in them. But trust me, respecting their process and timeline makes all the difference.

How can you practice patience in your coaching? First, manage your own expectations. Celebrate small wins and recognize that progress isn’t always linear. Sometimes, just showing up and being consistent is a huge step for a teen.

Also, be ready to repeat yourself and revisit topics. What might seem like a basic concept to you could be a complex challenge for them. Be their steady guide, no matter how many times it takes for a lesson to stick.

Patience also means staying calm and composed, even when things get tough. Teens can be experts at pushing boundaries – it’s part of how they learn about the world. Keep your cool, and remember, it's all part of their growth process.

In short, patience shows your teen clients that you believe in them and their ability to overcome challenges, even if it takes a little longer. And that kind of support? That's what can truly inspire a teen to keep striving and growing.

Adaptability

Next up is adaptability, a trait that's as important as it is dynamic. Here’s the deal: no two teens are the same, and a one-size-fits-all approach just doesn’t cut it. Being adaptable means you’re ready to switch up your game plan to match the unique needs and personalities of each teen you coach.

Adaptability in coaching is like being a chameleon – you adjust your style, the topics you focus on, even the way you communicate, based on who you’re working with. For instance, some teens might respond better to direct and straightforward advice, while others need more gentle guidance and encouragement.

Here's how you can put adaptability into action: First, be a keen observer. Pay attention to how your client reacts to different approaches. Do they open up more when you’re using humor, or do they prefer a more serious tone? Be ready to shift gears accordingly.

Also, embrace new ideas and methods. The world teens live in is constantly changing, and so are they. Stay open to new trends, interests, and communication platforms. Ever tried using a popular app or social media platform as part of your coaching? It could be a hit!

Remember, being adaptable doesn’t mean you’re changing who you are as a coach. It means you’re flexible and creative enough to find the best ways to connect with and support each unique teen. It’s about making every coaching session as effective as it can be, and trust me, your clients will notice and appreciate it.

Communication Skills

Now, let's chat about communication skills. This is more than just talking and listening – it’s about connecting with your teen clients in a way that resonates with them. Good communication can break down walls, build trust, and open the door to meaningful change.

First thing’s first: it’s crucial to speak their language. And I don't mean using teen slang (actually, it’s usually better if you don’t!). It’s about communicating in a way that’s relatable and understandable for them. Avoid coaching jargon or complex terms. Keep it simple, clear, and straight to the point.

Active listening is another big part of this. It’s about really hearing what they’re saying – and what they’re not saying. Pay attention to their words, tone, and body language. Show that you’re genuinely interested in their thoughts and feelings by giving feedback that reflects what they’ve shared. This kind of listening can make teens feel valued and understood.

Don’t forget the power of questions. Ask open-ended questions that encourage them to think and express themselves. Questions like “How did that make you feel?” or “What do you think you could do differently next time?” help teens reflect and engage in deeper conversation.

Lastly, remember that good communication is a two-way street. Be clear about your own messages and intentions, and encourage your clients to be open with you. This transparency builds trust and sets the foundation for a successful coaching relationship.

So, keep honing those communication skills. They’re key to connecting with your clients and guiding them through their personal journeys.

Genuine Passion for Helping Teens

Lastly, let’s talk about having a genuine passion for helping teens – it's the fuel that powers everything in teen life coaching. This isn't just a job; it's a commitment to positively impacting young lives at a critical time.

When you're passionate about what you do, it shows. It comes through in your energy, your dedication, and your approach. Teens can tell when someone genuinely cares about their well-being and growth, and that authenticity makes all the difference. It builds trust and creates a deeper connection.

But passion goes beyond just enjoying your work. It's about being invested in the issues and challenges teens face today. It means staying curious and continuously learning – whether it’s about new teen trends, developments in psychology, or effective coaching methods.

This passion also drives you to go the extra mile. It's what keeps you patient, adaptable, and committed, even when things get tough. And trust me, in teen coaching, there will be tough moments. But your genuine desire to make a difference is what will help you and your clients get through them.

So, keep that passion alive. Nurture it through ongoing learning, self-reflection, and connecting with other professionals in the field. Remember, your passion for helping teens is not just good for your clients; it’s what makes your coaching journey fulfilling and truly rewarding.

There you have it – the top five traits every successful teen life coach should have. Empathy, patience, adaptability, communication skills, and a genuine passion for helping teens. These traits are key in building meaningful, impactful relationships with your clients. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to deepen your coaching practice, reflecting on and developing these traits can take your coaching to the next level. Remember, great teen life coaching is about more than strategies and techniques – it's about connecting with your clients and supporting them on their journey to adulthood. Keep these traits in mind, and you'll be well on your way to making a significant difference in the lives of teens.

👉🏼 And, if you are looking to expand your offerings or launch your very own coaching program, check out our done-for-you 6 week Coaching Kit!

Want more in-depth strategies and insights on building your dream teen coaching business, program or side hustle? Download our full guide, “The Ultimate Guide to Starting a Teen Life Coaching Business in 2024.” 

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