The International Coach Federation (ICF) released the newly updated Code of Ethics (April 2025). Reading through them, I was struck by the depth and direction of the changes that continue to invite deeper exploration regarding the meaning of code itself and within me.
Among the many updates, the one that stands out most today is one of the four ICF Values, Humanity. The words reflect a core driver of how we show up as coaches and in our lives.
Humanity is now framed not just as kindness, but as a call to imperfection, reflection, humility, and authentic connection, and now includes:
• Embracing imperfection as a bridge to openness and self-acceptance. In coaching, we often celebrate our clients' journeys, but how often do we allow ourselves to be seen amid our personal journey? Sharing an "I don't know" moment in a coaching session (without triggering distraction or self-doubt) can model partnership, safety, and trust.
• Knowing there is always more to learn and staying open to other perspectives. A mentor once shared that she was reminded to step back while becoming curious whenever she felt her expertise or "knowing" rising. True learning begins where assumption ends. Humility can shift a tense dynamic into a space for mutual growth.
• Creating relationships rooted in honesty, transparency, and clarity. Whether with clients or colleagues, naming the energy sensed, or a misalignment in expectations, can create repair and depth, rather than disconnection. Clear agreements are ethical and relational.
• Continuously developing self-awareness. Coaches are called to be mirrors, but the clearest mirror is one we've looked into ourselves. Ongoing reflection, learning, and feedback aren't luxuries but necessities for ethical maturity.
• Willingness to acknowledge and own mistakes. One of the most powerful moments I observed in mentoring was a coach pausing mid-session, reflecting, "I think I just made this about me. Let's come back to you." That pause? Humanity in action.
• Accepting responsibility and learning from our actions. Taking responsibility opens the door and invites us to recognize harm, not as shame, but as an opening to respond with greater alignment and care moving forward.
• Being modest about achievements. In coaching and in a world where credentials and accomplishments matter, humility and this bullet remind us that our presence, not our performance, is what creates change, letting our presence and impact speak louder than our accolades.
• Avoiding any behavior that suggests superiority. Superiority closes doors; empathy opens them. Humanity in coaching is about meeting clients as equal partners in the process, regardless of titles, identities, or life paths.
• Committing to inclusivity, dignity, self-worth, and human rights. This bold invitation and daily commitment challenge us to step beyond neutrality while advocating for spaces where all voices are valued and respected. Whether it's making our practice more accessible or questioning our blind spots, it's a daily commitment.
✨ My Final Thoughts
Humanity is no longer an optional sentiment in coaching. It's a core ethical commitment asking,
"How can we meet ourselves and others with grace and growth?"
With presence and possibility,
Marilyn ox
✨If you would like to explore further:
✔️ ICF Ethics Updated Course: HERE
✔️ ICF Update Code of Ethics: HERE
✔️ ICF Core Competency Bootcamp, July 22, 2025: HERE
✔️ Next Live Morning Coaching, The Coach’s Mirror: August 14, 2025: HERE
🗓️ Schedule a time to Chat → HERE
