The feeling of wanting to be “somebody” is a common one, a powerful, often unspoken drive that propels us forward. As a coach, you see this ambition every day—the client who wants a big promotion, the entrepreneur who dreams of a thriving business, the artist who yearns for recognition. This desire is a fantastic starting point, a raw fuel for action. But the simple truth, echoed in the phrase, “I always wanted to be somebody, but now I realise I should have been more specific,” is that without specificity, that fuel can burn out, leaving us with a feeling of being lost rather than found. It’s the difference between a vague wish and a concrete goal. A vague wish is a beautiful idea, but a concrete goal is a detailed map, and it’s your job to help your clients draw that map.
This is where the real power of coaching comes in. It’s not just about helping clients achieve their goals; it’s about helping them define them in the first place. When you hear a client express a desire to be “somebody,” it’s your cue to dig deeper. Ask them, what does “somebody” look like for them? What are they doing, what impact are they making, and what specific steps are they taking to get there? By helping them get more specific, you’re not just giving them a clearer target; you’re helping them align their values, their passions, and their actions. This process turns a nebulous dream into a tangible plan, moving them from a state of general ambition to one of focused purpose.
The journey from “somebody” to “that specific person” is transformative. It’s the shift from a passive hope to an active, intentional pursuit. Encourage your clients to embrace the power of specific goals. Help them move beyond the general desire for success and define what success truly means to them, in a way that is personal and actionable. This clarity reduces overwhelm, builds confidence, and channels their efforts most effectively. Ultimately, coaching is about helping clients realize that the most impactful and fulfilling version of themselves isn’t a vague “somebody,” but a specific, well-defined individual with a clear purpose and a path to achieve it.
Have a wonderful week.
Luc Dermul
CEO & Founder of The Coach Valley & Life Coach