A step-wise process of intentional personality change coaching

Objectives: This article discusses why personality change appears both possible and beneficial, and provides a step-wise process of intentional personality change coaching. Design: A qualitative single sample exploratory design was employed. Method: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a panel of coaches/psychologists (experts), in order to develop coaching interventions to increase or decrease each of the 30 facets within the NEO PI-R. Further consultation with a sub-group of this panel led to the development of a step-wise process of intentional personality change coaching, designed to facilitate client chosen personality change goals. Results: A step-wise process of intentional personality change coaching was developed, and related coach training material. The step-wise process proposed that personality change coaching of individuals without major psychopathology be conducted in a coaching context. Prerequisites included client awareness of their personality, and motivation to change one or more personality facets. The step-wise process incorporated a 10-step coaching sequence to facilitate change in this context, and utilised a menu of unique change interventions for each of the 30 NEO PI-R facets. Conclusion: Personality change coaching appears both feasible and beneficial in a coaching context. The stepwise process discussed in this article informs coaching practice, and provides a foundation for empirical exploration of this potential.