AI coaching is coaching in which artificial intelligence guides the process: it leads you through short lessons, sets tasks for your everyday life, reminds you to follow through and responds when you get stuck. The content and the method come from experienced coaches. The AI makes sure you can use them anytime and at your own pace.
This article explains the definition, process and limits. For an overview of the topic, see the guide Digital Coaching and AI Coaching.
How does AI coaching work?
AI coaching works in short, building units that you actually complete. A typical lesson in the AI Coaching App is 30 to 90 seconds of video, rarely longer than 15 minutes. Each unit covers one topic and includes a task or question for you.
- Getting started: The first lesson is free. It shows you what you get, who the coach is, and takes you straight into the topic.
- Tasks and exercises: explanations, assignments, demonstrated exercises, meditations, short stories, quiz questions or daily routines.
- Prompts in everyday life: The app reminds you and helps you follow through, even in between or at night.
- Documentation: Results and progress are recorded so you can see what is changing.
- Help when problems arise: If something doesn’t work, you can get support right away instead of waiting for the next appointment.
- Wrap-up: The topic is properly concluded, your success is consolidated and you are pointed to further coaching programs.
How is AI coaching different from ChatGPT?
A general chatbot answers questions; AI coaching guides a process of change. In the app, the lessons follow a proven coaching method: they are dosed so that they neither bore nor overwhelm, and they build on one another. The system also closes the motivation cycle of task, action, success and self-confidence – something an open chat does not create on its own.
Which topics is AI coaching suited for?
AI coaching is suited for topics where regular follow-through makes the difference. These include mental strength and energy, focus and concentration, habits, reaching goals and procrastination. Example: the coaching program Gaining Mental Strength with the accompanying guide How to Build Mental Strength.
What can’t AI coaching do?
AI coaching does not replace therapy or a medical diagnosis. For depression, anxiety disorders, trauma or other illnesses, you need professional help. In-depth personal analysis drawing on experience and intuition also remains the strength of a human coach. If a system cannot adequately understand your concern, a personal appointment is the better choice.
Frequently asked questions about AI coaching
What is the difference between AI coaching and digital coaching?
Digital coaching is the umbrella term for coaching via app, video or software. AI coaching is the form in which AI guides the process, the prompts and the support.
Can AI replace a human coach?
Not completely. It complements a coach with implementation, reminders and availability.
Is AI coaching anonymous?
You use the app on your own, without an appointment and without someone sitting across from you. For many people, that lowers the barrier.
How much does AI coaching cost?
Getting started in the AI Coaching App is free and without obligation.
Try it out: start the coaching program “Gaining Mental Strength” for free in the app.
About the author
Christoph Ulrich Mayer is an engineer, management consultant, coach and author. He has been coaching since 2002 and developed the AI Coaching App.
