A Coach’s True Role: A Humble Servant, Not a Dictator in disguise!

Over time, I’ve come to believe that the ultimate responsibility of a coach is to recognize this simple truth: I am a humble servant, genuinely generated by grace to be of service to another human being.

The moment you begin to coach someone, you’re offering guidance—light—in areas of their life that might be in shadow. And as the coachee begins to feel grateful and opens up more, something sacred happens. It becomes a massive responsibility to hold that vulnerability with integrity.

Unfortunately, in our world, there are many examples—both historical and modern—of guides or coaches who misuse that power. Whether it’s a Rajguru raising a king in ancient India or advisors guiding presidents today, this misuse of influence can destroy lives. That, to me, is one of the greatest sins. I’ve experienced that pain personally, and I made a vow to never walk that path.

Every time I coach someone, I remind myself—and them—that I am not their master. I am a fellow traveler, a mirror, a listener. I may offer bold insights when needed, but I will never dictate their life. In fact, I tell them plainly: “If you ever feel I’m not serving your best interest, please walk away.” That freedom is essential to any honest coaching relationship.

To stay aligned, I constantly put my own thoughts under scrutiny. One example that lives forever in my heart is from the life of Babuji, the second spiritual guide in the Heartfulness movement. He was known to bring immense inner peace to people—sometimes in just seconds. He trained others who have passed this experience on, including to me.

Despite his incredible inner power, Babuji lived in utmost simplicity. He earned just 30 rupees a month and welcomed guests into his humble home, feeding them with whatever he had. One night, at midnight, someone gently woke him and asked for a meditation sitting. He didn’t act burdened. He said, “Thank you for asking me. It is such a privilege to give you this.”

He found a quiet corner, gently stepped over sleeping bodies, and sat down to serve—joyfully, humbly.

That story stays in my heart. If I can carry even a fraction of that spirit to my grave, I will consider this life well-lived.