This post is also available in: Spanish

Whenever someone asks me what I do as a coach, I say acompañar. This Spanish verb is the perfect word to describe the coaching journey. Though the English “accompany” is its official translation, it is missing acompañar‘s sense of solidarity and warmth. Let’s explore the link between coaching and acompañar.

What is Acompañar?

In latino culture, we use the verb acompañar in a variety of contexts. Most of the time, we mean to walk alongside someone in solidarity so they do not feel alone. When a friend is running an undesirable errand, we may say “te acompaño” (I’ll go with you). It is still solely your friend’s errand, but you are there for the journey.

When a person’s loved one dies, we say “te acompaño en tus sentimientos” (I accompany you in your feelings). This doesn’t mean we share the griever’s feelings, it means we acknowledge their grief and are there for support.

If someone has to do something scary, like walk to their car at night, they may ask “¿Me acompañas?” (can you accompany me?). In this instance, the companion provides a sense of safety or protection.

In music, acompañar is the same as to accompany: co-creating a harmony with the protagonist.

Feeling acompañada is the opposite of feeling “alone”. I can be by myself and not feel lonely. To be acompañada is to know that someone worries about you. They show you they care.

María Elena, Entrepreneur

When someone feels acompañada (accompanied or championed), they feel nurtured, protected and sure that the other person wants the best for them.

Acompañar Exists in Many Cultures

This concept of moral support in action can be found in multiple languages. My kind friends around the world have shared the following translations:

German: begleiten, sich anschließen, mitgehen, eskortieren

Greek: synodevo

Italian: accompagnare

Korean: 함께하다 (ham-kkeh-ha-da)

Portuguese: acompanhar

Swedish: ackompanjera, åtfölja, beledsaga

Swiss: mitgah

Do you know any others?

How is Coaching like Acompañar?

People usually engage coaches when they want to grow or effect change. That can be a pretty scary or lonely road to embark on. This is especially true for social leaders who want to change the world.

When I coach a social leader like you, I walk alongside you on your journey. Yet, it is absolutely YOUR journey, not mine. I am present to champion, to listen and co-create – never to judge. I do not have my own agenda.

My goal is for you to feel acompañada and empowered on your path to success. When you need someone to lean on, I am there to help you keep going. When you feel lost, I help you find your way. I ask you powerful questions to challenge you to grow in a supportive environment. As a coach, I empathize while keeping focus on the road ahead.

My mission is to acompañar. What would the world be like if everyone felt acompañada?

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