Philosophical life coaching is life coaching informed through philosophy.

But what is philosophy and how can that help me?

Philosophy simply translated means “the love of wisdom”. To gain real wisdom about ourselves we need to lean into our natural capacity for reflection, reasoning and an analysis of ourselves. This the reason why combining coaching and philosophy is so powerful.

Philosophy is not, as commonly thought, all about being an academic opaque discipline; a discipline which presents questions without answers. The point of philosophy today remains the same as it always has: to answer the “big questions” that are at the heart of the human condition.

Socrates, Plato and Aristotle were the world’s first life coaches, pschoytherapists and psychologists . A central theme for them all was “what makes a good life”. They asked questions that made people think for themselves; they wanted to really understand what us flourish. The same approach is seen within the Cynics, the Stoics and the Epicureans. It also weaves its way through Eastern philosophy in the teachings of Buddha, Confucius and Lao Tzu.

Think of a philosophical life coach as you’re having your own personal philosopher to be alongside to work you what matters and why.

It can help you with:

• Understanding the limiting central story you are telling yourself and what impact that is having on your life - for example:- “I’m not good enough” “I’m a failure” “Everyone is ahead of where I am” “Why am I not fulfilled”;

• Moving through a professional or personal transition;

• Eliciting clarity on identity and self-image;

• The reason you are still people pleasing;

• Finding your meaning and purpose; and

• Understanding your values and core beliefs

It is similar to life coaching, but whereas life coaching tends to be more practical and goal driven. Philosophical coaching is grounded in ancient wisdom and teaches you to think critically and reflect deeply. It is empowering beyond the sessions because it gives you an autonomous and independent way of thinking.