ABSTRACT
This chapter explores existential and experiential learning issues that confront the coach and client at every stage in their coaching conversation, as well as the impact of psychological research in these areas. Rollo May (1983:49) describes existentialism as the "unique and specific portrayal of the psychological predicament of contemporary Western man". Within the coaching conversation, the coach is not necessarily looking for the psychological paradigm, but listening more to what underpins language and linguistic patterns. Coaching guidelines could advocate: reflection, developing insight and awareness, setting goals, using language appropriately, making choices and taking action. The assumption of personal responsibility has a parallel with coaching. It plays a major part in any business coaching conversation: what is, and what will be, the commitment and responsibility that the executive will undertake as a step towards achieving goals.
