Katie Asmus is a therapist, teacher, wilderness guide, dancer and life coach. She also leads trips that combine life coaching with outdoor adventures for the Women’s Wilderness Institute. I got a chance to spend some time in a Utah canyon with Katie, and ask her why she thinks the wilderness has power, how she motivates people to make change, and what, exactly, life coaching is.
So, what is in the life coach job description?
Really, it’s different for everyone. My personal goal in working with people is to help them trust their own inner wisdom. I try to open people’s minds and hearts to the possibility that they can have what they want, or there is more in life that they aren’t doing. I think it’s important to hold a space where people can explore what is beyond what they currently know of believe is possible.
How do you coach people through big life changes?
There are stages that are common. First is identifying where you are, a goal or value clarification. Then comes the answering question and awareness phase. That could be stepping into what you want more fully, working with the barriers and the fears that come up, or spending more time doing or talking about things that bring people passion. The last part is having an accountability plan, and being really clear and specific about the next steps.
Why do you think being in the wilderness is conducive to helping people deal with change?
I think being in the wilderness, because of the slow pace and because you’re removed from technology and pollution, makes us relax more and let go, we’re literally more open and connected to what is true to us. The natural world is a mirror of everything that we’re dealing with, whether it’s change or blocks or letting go, it’s all happening around us especially when we’re open and looking for it. The adventure piece, like backpacking, for people who have never done it before gives them a feeling of success, confidence and accomplishment.
What is your favorite thing about what you do?
I love relationship with people and I love hearing their stories and also seeing them opening to other options and realizing possibilities. Often, it’s seemingly small shifts that have a life impact for people.
Check out the Women’s Wilderness Institute.
