September always feels like a fresh start for me.
For years, it was marked by the rhythm of going back to school.
First of all as a pupil – getting my new uniform, a new pencil case, new timetable.
Then as a student at university – starting a new semester, new courses, new lecturers.
And for a long time as a teacher- with new students, new exam classes, new challenges.
Now in my business – new planning, new goals, new clients.
Many people set their year ahead in January but September has always been my professional “New Year”.
The sense of renewal of a new school year can be one of the most powerful tools for continuous growth, both personally and professionally.
Coaching others is about helping people unlock their potential and as coaches we need to keep evolving ourselves.
Whether it’s expanding our coaching toolkit, exploring different perspectives or deepening our expertise we owe it to our clients to continue learning.
And September is the perfect time to reflect on our own growth and ask:
- What do I need to learn next?
- How can I stay curious and engaged?
- What new challenges can I take on this season?
As a Coach Mentor, I often see how coaches who embrace this mindset of ongoing learning stay ahead of the curve.
They don’t just rely on what they already know – they actively seek out new opportunities for development, whether that’s by pursuing a new qualification like an ICF Credential, working with a Coach Mentor or simply setting aside time to reflect and plan.
They turn learning into a daily habit, recognizing that it’s not just about filling gaps but about unlocking new potential.
Here are a few ways you can “go back to school” this September:
1. Set New Learning Intentions
Take a moment to think about how you want to grow this year.
Maybe there’s an area of coaching expertise you’ve been meaning to explore or you want to take your coaching skills to a higher level.
Set a clear intention and commit to making space for learning regularly.
2. Seek Out Feedback
Growth doesn’t happen in a vacuum.
Ask for feedback from coaching clients, a Coach Mentor or peer coaches that you trust.
Honest insights can point us to where our blind spots are and help us see what we need to work on.
3. Enrol in a Virtual Programme
Consider doing a new Coach Development Programme that will challenge you and support you in equal measure.
4. Surround Yourself with Learners
Learning is contagious!
Spend time with a Coach Mentor or a personal coach or peer coaches who will push you to think differently, challenge you to grow and support your development.
A group of like-minded coaches will keep you motivated and inspire you to continue your learning journey.
5. Reflect on Past Lessons
Sometimes learning is about revisiting the lessons we’ve already learned and asking ourselves, “How can I apply this now?”
September is a great time to reflect on the progress you’ve made so far and consider how past experiences have shaped you.
For me, as an ICF MCC Coach and Coach Mentor, this is a time to reflect on how I can best support other coaches in their learning journeys, while continuing my own.
Whether it’s through mentoring other coaches or diving into the latest research in coach development, I know that staying curious and constantly growing is essential to success.
Every September gives us a chance to embrace that “back to school” feeling — to open ourselves up to new possibilities, fresh ideas and continued growth.
What’s your learning intention for this season?
I’d love to hear what you’re working on!
Until next time,
with best wishes for your success,
Cath
P.S. If you want to find out more about how my 𝗖𝗼𝗮𝗰𝗵 𝗗𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗽𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗠𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗺𝗺𝗲 will take your coaching skills to the next level then click here to have a chat.