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ICF Coaching Futures Report 2026

Envisioning Coaching's Next Horizon

This report does not predict a single future. Instead, it explores multiple scenarios shaping access to coaching worldwide. Grounded in global insights, foresight methods, and creative storytelling, we invite you to imagine what coaching could become and how today’s actions influence what comes next.

The future is not fixed. Help shape it.

I have a feeling that

as economic uncertainty rises and more coaches flood the market, many will struggle to sustain their businesses. I think the future belongs to coaches who don’t provide ‘cookie-cutter solutions’ but deliver strategic insight, deep emotional intelligence, and lasting change.

Beverley GlazerCanada
I have a feeling that

the future of coaching will call us back to deep, soulful human connection — the only force that truly moves us as social beings. We’re drifting away, chasing things, titles, and status symbols, becoming emptier inside, and as we lose connection with ourselves, we also lose depth in how we treat others. In business, this shows up as serious talent, retention, and engagement challenges. Coaching must restore dignity, ethics, and authentic human warmth everywhere.

Naila SelimovićSlovenia
I am noticing that

Coaching is becoming an integral part of an organization Talent Development agenda. Not only critical and high performing talent but even a low performing employee in an organization can get greatly benefitted through coaching intervention in achieving their desired goals.

SARVESHIndia
I am noticing that

competencies, while helpful to start with, become less relevant as we gather experience. Relational skills and collective work begin to matter more. Being able to bring the proper focus, mindset, and attention to match the coachee’s needs at any given moment is essential. Learning is less effective in silos and more transformational in collaboration with peers.

Harry MinasUnited Kingdom
I am curious about

I read about how some companies in Europe are using storytelling as part of their leadership coaching. I wonder if we will see more coaching methods to combine traditional practices with modern techniques?

HanaJapan

What’s your hunch about the future of coaching?

We want to hear from you! Tell us your hunch and explore others from around the world.

How to get the most out of our website:

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Learn about futures thinking and how to apply it to coaching

2

Explore emerging trends and tools shaping the future of coaching

3

Share your hunch about the future of coaching and explore other hunches from around the world

Ecosystem-centered Coaching: Futures Thinking for Real-World Impact

In this 4-part series, discover how futures thinking can empower you to navigate the evolving role of coaching within interconnected ecosystems. Through our four-phase framework—Observe, Envision, Anticipate, Act— you will learn how to prepare for the future of ecosystem-centered practices, integrate AI and new technologies, and embrace ethical, holistic approaches that create real-world impact for you, your clients, and your communities.

Apply the futures thinking loop to coaching

Futures Thinking fosters a mindset that embraces change, encourages innovation, and empowers action toward desired futures.

Apply the futures thinking loop to coaching

Futures Thinking fosters a mindset that embraces change, encourages innovation, and empowers action toward desired futures.

Top Articles

Dive into this month’s top trending articles on the future of coaching

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Discover free articles featuring key insights on the future of coaching and its impact in the realms of well-being, work, education, and planetary ecology from worldwide thought leaders.

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