Mentor, motivation trainer, "life coach": in recent years, we often encounter these names both on social networks and in our daily lives. They promise people the best leadership, conflict resolution, company representation, and superior intelligence. Persons who were once known only as psychologists or trainers now appear under different titles and address a broad audience.
So why has interest in these individuals increased so much?
Medianews.az citing "Khazar TV" reports that human resources specialist Aytən Shikhəliyeva said the widespread growth of these fields in the country is due to increasing internal voids in people and a growing need for support.
"Statistics show that from the beginning of 2023 until now, the rate at which people receive mentoring has increased by 15%. 'Coaching' helps more people clarify their potential and find solutions to their problems. What does a 'coach' do on this path? They identify the target the person wants to reach from their current position and help that person achieve the goal. Mentors are experts in a particular field. A professional in any field who wants to progress or develop in that area guides others based on their own experience. Professional motivators should connect people with their internal strength and try to encourage them for the long term," she noted.
A. Shikhəliyeva emphasized that to become a professional in fields such as mentor, motivation trainer, or "life coach," one must be educated at internationally accredited schools.
"It is very important that those studying in this field have practical experience so they can apply the theoretical knowledge they receive in practice. Many people we see on social networks, who work in this field and call themselves 'life coaches' or mentors, have not studied in this field; they learn through short courses that are not based on fundamental values or standards. These people often have a more negative impact on others than promoting their development."
Psychologist Gülnar Orucova stated that modern life is fast-paced, stressful, and competitive. For this reason, many people do not know what to do, how to find motivation, or how to improve themselves, and they need such people:
"Well-known members of society share their success stories, and people derive motivation from them. Sometimes these people act as motivators themselves. Some truly receive professional education and participate in special programs. Others get involved in this field without education to make money. There are trainings that lack scientific basis and do not lead to any results. These include 'Access Bars' and 'Theta Healing' trainings. People attend these trainings and present themselves in society as 'life coaches' or even psychologists."