As a PCC, you’ve probably heard people say that the MCC credentialing process is difficult to pass. Only 4% of ICF-certified coaches worldwide reach MCC level, so how can I tell you it was easy for me?
I’m not claiming to be exceptional, nor am I diminishing anyone else’s challenges or achievements on their MCC coaching journey. What made the process feel easier for me wasn’t the path itself, but the realization that I had, in many ways, been preparing for it unconsciously since the very beginning of my coaching journey.
So, what were the elements that made my MCC journey feel easy?
1. A wholehearted passion for coaching
By the time I took my MCC exam, I was wholeheartedly in love with both the art and science of coaching. I found freedom and creativity in the process while deepening my understanding of the techniques, models and competencies. I didn’t see coaching as a backup career, but as the work that would give my life purpose. If you feel the same way, your journey from PCC to MCC will feel more exhilarating than exhausting. Your passion for coaching will fire you up and keep you motivated through challenges.
2. Investing in the best coaching training
I sought out the best coaching schools and training programmes, led by MCC supervisors and mentors, long before I started preparing for my MCC credential. In doing so, I surrounded myself with people modelling the MCC mindset who showed me what coaching could look like at the highest level. Almost without realising it, I was integrating and embodying coaching by observing and mirroring that way of being.
3. Working with MCC coaches and mentors
Being coached by MCCs was a transformative experience. I could genuinely feel that I had in front of me someone who deeply trusted me and my abilities — who consistently invited me to turn inward for my own answers and stay connected to my values. They reflected my worth back to me, challenged me with care, and gently pushed me beyond the edge of my comfort zone. Through that process, my self-awareness, trust, and presence grew stronger than ever.
From them, I learned (and I am still learning) how to show up authentically, intentionally and confidently. I became more aware, looked at my feelings of uncertainty, and got stronger in trusting myself.
4. I saw the coaching as the reward, not the credential
From the start, I approached my MCC journey as an exciting opportunity to explore who I was and who I was becoming as a coach. Adopting this mindset meant that, even if I hadn’t passed the exam, I would have found deep value in the learning process itself. Focusing on growing into the best coach I could be, rather than on the outcome, kept me present and curious throughout the journey. That perspective allowed my learning to deepen and my personal growth to expand. For me, learning has always been its own reward.
So, is the MCC credential easy?
Looking back, my "easy" path to MCC was the result of years of intentional choices, quality relationships, and my personal commitment to high standards. By putting strong foundations in place, I was free to discover how fun, inspiring and creative coaching can really be.
Stepping up from PCC to MCC is a shift from knowing the core competencies to embodying them. It’s learning a new way of being.
Learning to trust yourself is central to this transformation. So often it’s confidence, not competence, that stands in the way of us achieving our goals.
Are you ready to begin your MCC journey?
Find out more about my Level 3 ICF-accredited course here – download the brochure for more information, or book a discovery call with me.
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