The Hidden Pressures of Modern Life — And Why Coaching Is Becoming So Valuable

Curious to understand how people around me view coaching, I sent a short questionnaire to 60 friends. I wanted to know what areas of life they currently struggle with, what challenges they face, and whether they’d consider coaching — individually or in groups, online or in person.

I was delighted to hear back from 32 friends who took a moment to share their experiences.

That in itself already told me something important — how incredibly busy and stretched people feel these days. Even when we want to take part in something positive, it can feel like there’s simply no time or energy left.

And that, as it turns out, is part of the story.

When I looked at the responses, one theme stood out clearly: stress and work–life balance.

• 65% said this was their biggest challenge.

• 32% mentioned career growth or transitions.

• 26% said confidence and self-belief.

• Others talked about relationships, communication, and finances.

While everyone’s situation was unique, a common thread ran through the responses — the feeling of trying to balance too many roles and expectations, and the desire for a bit more peace, purpose, and clarity.

The Challenges Behind the Numbers

Some of the words people used really stayed with me:

“Letting go and asking for help.” “Managing energy.” “Balancing a high-demanding career and family.” “Not sabotaging my efforts.” “I’d like to do something different but I don’t know what.” “Imposter syndrome.” “Finding time for myself.” " What to do next "

Reading through them, I could feel how much pressure so many people carry quietly. Coaching can help lighten that load — not by adding more to-do lists, but by creating the space to pause, think, and reset.

When I asked whether people would consider joining a coaching session, the responses showed a mix of curiosity and reflection. Around 29% said yes and 45% said maybe to a group coaching session, while for one-to-one coaching, 23% said yes and 50% said maybe. Only about a quarter of respondents said no to either option. 

To me, this suggests that many people are genuinely interested in personal development but want to understand more about what coaching involves and how it could support them personally. When it came to the format, 58% preferred online sessions and 42% preferred in-person — a sign that convenience and flexibility play a big role in how people want to engage, while still valuing real connection and support.

This little survey reminded me that coaching isn’t just about goals or performance — it’s about people. About real lives, with real pressures, dreams, and doubts.

If you’ve ever wondered what coaching might feel like, know that it’s not about being told what to do. It’s about having a space that’s completely yours — where you can talk openly, reflect, and uncover your own answers.

You don’t need to have it all figured out at the

start. Sometimes, you just need a conversation that helps you breathe, think, and reconnect with yourself.