Understanding Coachability Through the Four Types of Lotuses in Buddhism

” Coaching is not for everyone; it’s for those ready to be coached. When the coachee is ready, the coach will appear. “

Atip Muangsuwan
CEO Coach and Coach Supervisor

In the realm of coaching, recognizing the varying levels of coachability among individuals is pivotal. One profound way to understand this concept is through the Buddhist metaphor of the “Four Types of Lotuses.” This timeless principle beautifully illustrates how different people are open to personal and spiritual growth, and how coaches can tailor their approach to each type.

The Four Types of Lotuses

In Buddhism, people are likened to lotuses based on their ability to achieve spiritual enlightenment or nirvana. Let’s explore each type and its implications for coachability:

1. The Lotus that Fully Blooms Above Water

These individuals possess high wisdom and readily absorb coaching. Just as the lotus that blooms above water stands tall and radiant, these highly coachable individuals quickly grasp coaching concepts and principles. They require minimal intervention and can swiftly apply insights to achieve their goals. Coaches, in this scenario, facilitate self-discovery and empower these individuals to unlock their potential through thought-provoking questions and reflections.

2. The Lotus at Water Level

Lotuses at this stage have good wisdom but need some guidance to reach enlightenment. Similarly, these individuals are moderately coachable. With the coach’s support in exploring their potential, they can understand and apply coaching principles. They are on the path to growth, steadily progressing with the right encouragement. Coaches help these clients by creating a safe space for introspection and fostering their self-awareness and wisdom.

3. The Lotus Beneath the Water Surface

These lotuses have less wisdom and need continuous effort to reach enlightenment. They represent individuals who may initially struggle with coaching concepts and principles. However, with persistent effort and patience from the coach, they can gradually understand and embrace coaching. Progress may be slow, but it is possible with dedication. Coaches provide unwavering support and challenge these clients to think deeply about their values, beliefs, and goals, helping them uncover their inner resources.

4. The Lotus in the Mud

Lotuses in the mud are not receptive to coaching due to their lack of wisdom and faith. These individuals are challenging to coach as they resist and struggle to understand the coaching principles. They are less likely to achieve significant growth in this lifetime. Coaches must recognize these individuals and decide whether to invest time, energy and effort in their development. In some cases, it may be more effective to focus on clients who are more open and willing to engage in self-reflection and change.

Applying the Lotus Metaphor to Coachability

Understanding these four types of lotuses helps coaches identify the coachability of their clients. Here’s how each type compares:

1. Fully Bloomed Lotuses: Highly coachable individuals who quickly grasp coaching concepts with minimal intervention. These clients are a pleasure to work with and often yield impressive results through self-guided discovery.
2. Lotuses at Water Level: Moderately coachable individuals who require some support in exploring and discovering their potential. They show steady progress with the right encouragement and introspection.
3. Lotuses Beneath the Water Surface: Individuals who need continuous effort and patience from the coach to gradually embrace the coaching principles and process. Their progress is slow, but achievable with dedicated self-exploration and an open mind.
4. Lotuses in the Mud: Individuals who resist coaching and struggle to understand the coaching principles and process, making them challenging to coach. They may not be receptive to growth and change. They have closed and fixed mindset.

Recognizing the type of person (or lotus) you are working with enables you to tailor your approach, ensuring that you provide the appropriate level of support and challenge. This understanding helps in choosing clients who are more likely to benefit from coaching and achieve their desired outcomes.

As coaches, we must continuously adapt our approaches to meet the needs of our clients, just as a gardener nurtures different types of plants. Embracing the wisdom of the Four Types of Lotuses can lead to more effective and fulfilling coaching experiences.

If you’re coachable coaches and you’re open to coaching supervision, let’s connect and grow together!

About Atip Muangsuwan: Atip Muangsuwan is the Founder & CEO of The Best Coach International Co., Ltd. He is a CEO & UHNWI Coach, Certified Mentor & Supervisor for global executive coaches, Holistic Life Transformation Expert, Business & Life Strategist, and Corporate Facilitator/Trainer. With a proven track record of helping clients achieve their career goals and job promotions, Atip is dedicated to supporting individuals in their personal and professional growth.