Every year, International Coaching Day is observed during International Coaching Week, which takes place in the third week of May. In 2025, International Coaching Week is scheduled for May 12–18, making International Coaching Day fall within this period. This day celebrates the transformative power of professional coaching and its impact on individuals and organizations worldwide.
History of International Coaching Day
International Coaching Day is part of International Coaching Week (ICW), an annual global celebration initiated in 1999 by Jerri Udelson, a pioneer in the coaching profession. The purpose of ICW is to raise awareness about the benefits of working with professional coaches and to acknowledge the progress made through the coaching process.
The International Coaching Federation (ICF), founded in 1995, has been instrumental in promoting International Coaching Week and International Coaching Day. ICF’s mission is to advance the coaching profession by setting high standards, providing independent certification, and building a worldwide network of trained coaching professionals. 1
Why is International Coaching Day important?
International Coaching Day serves as a reminder of the significant role coaching plays in personal and professional development. It highlights how coaching can help individuals unlock their potential, set and achieve goals, and navigate life’s challenges with greater clarity and confidence.
Moreover, this day emphasizes the value of coaching in organizational settings, where it can enhance leadership skills, improve team dynamics, and foster a culture of continuous learning and growth. By celebrating International Coaching Day, we acknowledge the positive impact coaches have on individuals and communities around the world.
- Recognizes the transformative power of coaching.
- Highlights the role of coaches in personal and professional growth.
- Promotes awareness of coaching benefits to a broader audience.
- Encourages individuals to engage with certified coaching professionals.
- Supports the development of a global coaching culture.
How to Celebrate International Coaching Day
Celebrating International Coaching Day can be both personal and communal. Individuals might reflect on their personal growth journeys and consider how coaching has played a role. It’s also an opportunity to express gratitude to coaches who have made a difference in one’s life.
Organizations and coaching professionals often host events during International Coaching Week, such as workshops, webinars, and pro bono coaching sessions. Participating in these events can provide insights into the coaching process and its benefits.
- Attend a coaching workshop or webinar.
- Engage in a pro bono coaching session.
- Share personal coaching experiences on social media.
- Thank a coach who has positively impacted your life.
- Explore coaching as a potential career path.
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