Holding a safe space

What does ‘holding a safe space’ mean? I was asked this question by someone new to coaching.

It is the space that we hold for our coachees which enables them to feel safe to open up, to be vulnerable and be their authentic selves. A space where feelings, emotions and thoughts can expressed without the fear of  being judged.

Some ways in which a coach can help to facilitate this safe space is by:

•  being fully present
•  being non judgemental
• putting aside our egos and need to control what is in the space
• listening deeply with an open heart and compassion
• providing space and silence for thinking and reflection
• offering unconditional support and allowing experiences, emotions, feelings to surface

Holding the space takes time to develop and master. Coming into a coaching session with a clean clear uncluttered head takes practice. Some ways which works for me, include:

• Practicing mindful breathing before a session. I often invite the coachee to do this with me if they seem stressed or flustered
• Short meditation for 3-5 minutes: I make use of apps such as Stop, Breathe Think; Headspace; Insight timer
• Go for a short walk preferably outside
•  Write down what’s going on in my head and consciously closing my ‘Notebook of thoughts’
•  Use the above for journaling
• Allow others to hold the space for me – for self care and well being

What would you add and how do you declutter the mind before a #coaching session?