3 Ways to Capitalize on the Next Wave in Positive Psychology

Applied Positive Psychology Coaching (APPC) is an emerging field and is the next wave in Positive Psychology Coaching. This new integrated approach to APPC combines the scientific fields of Positive Psychology and Coaching Psychology with evidence-based coaching methods, techniques, tools and practices.   

In the first part of this two-part series, we outlined the case for this new integrated approach to Positive Psychology Coaching. In Part 1: Adopting a New Integrated Approach to Positive Psychology Coaching, we discussed the enhanced benefits of APPC for the science of coaching, as well as for helping coaches develop further knowledge, skills and tools while experiencing personal growth and building a sustainable coaching practice. 

In Part 2, we focus on the additional benefits of APPC in terms of your coaching practice, personal growth and development and, ultimately, your impact. For coaches who want to expand their knowledge, add to their professional toolkit, or who have an interest in Positive Psychology, evidence-based coaching or the science of human flourishing and wellbeing, APPC can be a unique modality that you may want to incorporate into your coaching practice. Similarly, if you have received formal training in the individual fields of Positive Psychology or Coaching Psychology, you can also learn how to practically bring them together in an integrated way in coaching conversations through APPC. 

Coaches, leaders, therapists, managers and entrepreneurs can capitalize on this next wave in Positive Psychology Coaching through APPC in three ways: 

1. Enhance your credibility through scientific knowledge and evidence-based approaches.

In addition to the experience and results you already bring to your clients and teams, a deeper knowledge of the science and evidence-based tools of Applied Positive Psychology Coaching will only heighten your credibility and impact.  

The scientific field of APPC has its roots in both positive psychology and coaching psychology. This approach combines the science and practice of both fields of psychology, then integrates them with evidence-based coaching tools, techniques and approaches, such as cognitive behavioral coaching (CBC), solution-focused coaching (SFC), Acceptance and Commitment Coaching (ACC), and many other methodologies. 

APPC closes the knowledge and application gap between Positive Psychology and Coaching Psychology, and gives guidance on how to apply both of these effectively – and in an integrated way – within coaching conversations. 

2. Be at the forefront of formal training and application.  

The most effective formal training in APPC is backed by science and facilitated by seasoned experts, scholars, researchers and practitioners. This means coaches and practitioners can be confident they are using strategies and techniques that are scientifically validated. 

Formal training begins with learning the foundational theories and best practices (see  the first point above), but the next step is a significant part of truly and holistically adopting this new integrated approach: actual hands-on practical experience.  

Once you are comfortable in your knowledge of the evidence-based tools and practices, you can (and will want to) incorporate them into your coaching conversations. The best kind of training you can invest in at this stage is finding a training program that is at the forefront of formal training and practice of APPC, one that also provides access to seasoned mentors and coaches for you to discuss your progress and results as you chart along your journey to adopt Applied Positive Psychology Coaching. 

Better yet, finding a coach that also has training and experience in Applied Positive Psychology Coaching can help you identify your own coaching strengths and weaknesses as they pertain to your adoption of Applied Positive Psychology Coaching. It is through these conversations and reflections that you can continually adapt your methods and techniques, and confidently apply evidence-based APPC practices.   

3. Build and develop a sustainable business.

Learning more about APPC – especially through formal training  to become a certified Applied Positive Psychology Coach – can help you build and grow a more sustainable coaching business. 

Becoming a certified Applied Positive Psychology Coach now while the wave is still building will set you apart from other coaching practitioners – thereby increasing your current and future marketability. 

As this trend continues, your early adoption will develop into accumulated experience, and your confidence can grow alongside your practice. The more confidence you build in your own robust skill set and ability to put APPC into practice, the easier it will be to gain new clients, grow your coaching business, and further your coaching conversations. This sustainable growth benefits both you and your clients. 

These are just three of many ways that APPC can enhance your existing toolkit of coaching strategies and techniques. Gaining the foundational knowledge for APPC, especially through formal training and coaching, can make your coaching practice more sustainable, taking your impact to the next level … and beyond. 

©  Meriflor Toneatto