Great coaches are not just skilled tacticians, motivators, or strategists—they are leaders themselves who uphold high standards, speak the truth, and do what is right, even at personal risk. This also applies to their willingness to risk getting fired by their client because they refuse to ignore or step over anything that compromises their clients' progression towards their highest potential. They understand that true transformation requires confronting the unspoken things that hold clients back such as fear, self-doubt, and the comfort of mediocrity.

Many clients hesitate to take risks because they fear failure, judgment, or even success itself. They worry about looking foolish or handling the responsibilities that come with achievement. Others impose self-limiting beliefs on themselves, convinced they are not smart enough, talented enough, or worthy of success. These mental roadblocks prevent them from even trying. Furthermore, toxic relationships, unsupportive environments, and negative work cultures drain energy and kill motivation. Surrounding oneself with the right people is crucial for growth.

However, talent alone is not enough. Success demands strong habits, daily commitment, and consistent effort—even when motivation wanes. Growth requires discomfort, yet many remain in their comfort zones because change feels uncertain. This fear of the unknown prevents them from reaching their full potential. Setbacks are inevitable, but those who achieve great things for themselves and others see failure as feedback, not defeat. They take ownership of their journey, refusing to blame others, wait for perfect conditions, or seek constant validation. High achievers take full responsibility for their growth and results.

The Role of Hard Truths in Coaching

Overcoming these barriers requires awareness, and sometimes, that awareness comes through hard truths. A coach’s job is not to be agreeable but to be honest. Delivering hard truths means providing feedback that may be difficult to hear but is essential for growth. It is not about being harsh for the sake of it—it is about challenging individuals to rise to their potential by holding them accountable to their own goals and commitments, even when the truth is uncomfortable. Hard truths, when delivered effectively, come from a place of belief in a person’s ability to improve, making it a powerful tool for transformation.

Top Ten Things to Keep in Mind When Delivering Hard Truths

1. Establish Trust and Safety First

Hard truths are best received in a relationship built on trust and respect. Before delivering tough feedback, ensure your client knows you genuinely care about their growth and success. Create a safe space where they feel supported and understood.

2. Set the Expectation Early

At the start of the coaching relationship, make it clear that honesty is a core part of the process. Explain that you will not step over anything important and will challenge them when necessary because you believe in their potential.

3. Get Permission to Challenge

Before delivering tough feedback, ask: "Can I be brutally honest with you right now?" This primes the client and makes them more receptive rather than defensive.

4. Speak with Clarity and Directness

Be clear, concise, and specific—avoid sugarcoating or over-explaining. Instead of saying, "You aren’t working hard enough to achieve your goals," say: "I’m not seeing the level of commitment it’s going to take for you to succeed," or "Your actions don’t align with the goals you have set for yourself."

5. Balance Toughness with Belief

Deliver the truth with conviction, but also remind the client of their strengths. For example:
"Right now, it sounds as if you’re making excuses instead of taking action. But I know you have what it takes to push past this. I’ve seen you do it in other situations."

6. Use Data or Patterns, Not Opinions

Frame feedback around facts and behaviors rather than personal judgments. Instead of "You’re only half committed," say: "Over the last month, you’ve skipped three sessions and haven’t followed through on your commitments. What’s going on?"

7. Make It About Growth, Not Punishment

Remind them that tough feedback is not about tearing them down but calling them up to a higher level. Example: "I wouldn’t be having this conversation with you if I didn’t believe you could achieve more."

8. Follow Up with Exploration

After delivering the hard truth, shift to what they can do about it. Partner with them to create a game plan for improvement.

9. Hold Your Ground

Some clients may resist or get defensive. Stay firm but compassionate. If they push back, remind them: "I’m not saying this to be harsh—I’m saying it because I care about your success.”

10. Reinforce Progress & Encourage Action

Once they start making changes, acknowledge their growth. This builds confidence and shows that tough feedback leads to transformation. When done right, hard truths are not about criticism; they are about empowerment. A great coach challenges but never discourages, pushes but never breaks—and that’s what leads to real breakthroughs.

The Legacy of Fearless Coaches

History is filled with examples of coaches who refused to overlook hard truths and, in doing so, changed the game. These coaches were not always the most popular in the moment, but they earned deep respect in the long run. Their willingness to take risks set them apart and cemented their legacy.

A coach who is afraid of being fired by their clients will always play it safe. They will avoid difficult conversations, tolerate subpar performance, and ultimately leave their clients unchanged. A coach who isn’t willing to risk in general will find it difficult to ask the same of their clients. But a coach who embraces the risk of standing firm and delivering hard truths will have clients that transform and also impact those around them. They may not always be comfortable or secure in their position, but they will always be respected, remembered, and ultimately successful.

Conclusion

A coach willing to risk being fired for the right reasons is a coach who truly cares about their clients, their mission, and the principles they stand for. They refuse to compromise on excellence, deny reality, or let fear dictate their decisions. In doing so, they inspire cultures of accountability and leave behind a lasting impact. These are the coaches who make a real difference, and these are the coaches the world needs more of.

by Amy Ruppert Donovan, MCC