Defining Leadership Blog by Dyson Leadership

Why Every Leader Needs a Coach! Including You

January 13, 2026•4 min read

Why Every Leader Needs a Coach! Including You

Here’s a leadership truth that might surprise you:

The best leaders don’t go it alone.
They seek counsel.
They welcome feedback.
They invite challenge.
They work with a coach.

Coaching isn’t just for people who are struggling; it’s for leaders who are growing. And if you’re serious about growing this year, one of the best investments you can make is partnering with a leadership coach.

Here is the thing before I go into this. I will never try to convince you to stay with me as a coach. Here is why. A good coach wants you to succeed with the right coach. Coaching costs, yes. However, if the coach is the right fit, they will want you to succeed and for you to get the value back for your investment. That is what coaching should be seen as. An investment.

What Coaching Is (and What It’s Not)

Let’s clear this up:

Coaching is not therapy… It’s a future-focused and action-oriented conversation.
Coaching is not consulting… You are not just handed answers or told what to do. You are guided to uncover answers, solutions, and ideas.
Coaching is not just for beginners… Don’t get me wrong, it is amazing for beginners. However, many top-level executives and ministry leaders work with coaches because it’s easy to become stuck, and coaches get you unstuck.

At its core, coaching is a trusted relationship designed to help you move forward with clarity, purpose, and accountability. One of my mentors, Valerie Burton, always talks about being stuck and helping people get unstuck. That is how I view coaching. Getting you unstuck.

5 Reasons Every Leader Needs a Coach

1. You Don’t Know What You Don’t Know

Yes, this phrase. Even experienced leaders have blind spots. A coach helps you identify the patterns, habits, or perspectives that might be holding you back. Think about blind spots. They are blind spots because you can’t see them! A coach can help you explore your thoughts and ideas to help uncover blind spots, too!

Clarity begins with awareness.

2. You Need a Safe Space to Process and Think

Leadership should not feel lonely. A coach provides a confidential space to talk through challenges, explore options, and process emotions without judgment or an agenda. I always sign a confidentiality agreement with my clients so that they know what we discuss is private and it’s a safe space to explore ideas.

Coaching provides margin for deep thinking.

3. You’re Capable of More Than You Realize

A great coach sees your potential and won’t let you settle. They ask questions that challenge assumptions, stretch your perspective, and it will help lead you to leadership growth. They help you see the bigger picture and your bigger purpose.

Coaching isn’t about comfort; it’s about growth. Your growth.

4. You Need Accountability That’s Actually Supportive

Accountability isn’t punishment; everyone sees it as such a negative. Accountability should be looked at as a partnership. A coach helps you set meaningful goals, track progress, and stay focused all without guilt or shame. A good coach wants to see you succeed.

This kind of support empowers you to follow through and keep momentum.