When I first heard the phrase “every leader needs a coach,” I’ll admit I was sceptical. After all, I had decades of experience at global brands, an MBA from a world-class business school, and a track record of leading large marketing teams. Surely that was enough?

But here’s the reality: the higher you climb, the lonelier it gets. The expectations grow, the stakes rise, and the number of people you can truly confide in gets smaller. That’s where coaching makes the difference.

Coaching isn’t about fixing weaknesses

One of the biggest misconceptions about coaching is that it’s remedial — something you do when you’re struggling. In truth, the most ambitious, high-performing leaders I know invest in coaching precisely because they’re already good. They want to become great.

A coach gives you the perspective and clarity you can’t always find on your own. They challenge your assumptions, help you see blind spots, and push you to go further than you would on your own.

The accountability factor

Here’s something most leaders won’t admit: we all know there are areas we need to work on. Whether it’s delegating more effectively, managing conflict, or balancing priorities, we’re aware of our growth edges. But knowing and doing are very different things.

A coach holds you accountable. They make sure progress doesn’t get lost in the chaos of your inbox or the pressure of quarterly results. With the right support, the changes you keep postponing actually happen.

Beyond the boardroom

For me, coaching isn’t just about career performance. It’s about life performance. The best coaches don’t just ask how you’re leading your team, they ask how you’re leading yourself.

That’s why I now combine leadership coaching with personal well-being, because the two can’t be separated. The physical energy I’ve built doesn’t just help me perform at work — it helps me show up fully at home too, with my wife and children. And it’s not just about being present, it’s about being the kind of partner, parent, and leader who has the energy to give their best in every sphere of life.

Why ambitious leaders can’t afford to skip coaching

If you’re ambitious, coaching is not a luxury. It’s a multiplier. It accelerates growth, reduces blind spots, and builds resilience. It ensures you’re not just reacting to the demands of leadership but proactively shaping your future.

Think of it this way: elite athletes wouldn’t dream of competing without a coach. Why should ambitious business leaders be any different?

Final thoughts

Looking back, I wish I’d invested in coaching earlier in my career. It would have saved me from mistakes, accelerated my progress, and helped me balance success with well-being sooner.

If you’re serious about reaching the next level, don’t try to do it alone. Every ambitious leader needs a coach — not because they’re failing, but because they’re determined to thrive.

Why Every Ambitious Leader Needs a Coach