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Setting Transformative Goals with Coaching Principles

The start of anything, a new year, a new year of your life, a significant change is a time filled with hope and possibility. Many of us set resolutions, only to find ourselves falling short a little bit later. As coaches, we know that true transformation comes not from vague promises but from "a view of the horizon plus a view of the next step". A vision and structured, meaningful observations and actions. Let’s explore how coaching principles can help you and your clients make the most of their seasons of change to create sustainable, impactful development.

Reflecting on the Past

Before setting goals, take time to reflect on the past. In coaching, we often emphasize the power of acknowledging strengths and successes. Use questions like:

• What were your most significant achievements?
• What challenges did you overcome, and what did you learn from them?
• How have you grown personally and professionally?

These reflections help create a foundation of confidence and clarity, ensuring that future goals are grounded in a sense of capability and progress.

Resolutions vs. Transformative Goals

Resolutions often fail because they are too broad or lack actionable steps. Coaching principles shift the focus from vague aspirations to well-defined goals that align with an individual’s values and vision.

For example:

• Resolution: “I want to be healthier.”
• Observation: "Suppose I am healthier - what will I notice that I am doing? What will other people notice? Ah - I will move more..."
• Transformative Goal: “I will go for a 30-minute walk three times a week and prepare home-cooked meals five days a week.”

Encourage clients to note their observations around the "new them", break their goals into small, manageable steps to build momentum and confidence.

Visioning the Future

One of the most powerful coaching exercises for the new year is future visioning. Guide your clients through a visualization of their ideal self a year from now. Ask questions such as:

• What does your ideal day look like?
• How do you feel emotionally, physically, and mentally?
• What accomplishments are you most proud of?

This process helps clients connect emotionally to their goals, making them more motivated to take action.

Overcoming Obstacles

Transformation is rarely a straight path. Coaches play a crucial role in helping clients anticipate and navigate challenges. Here are a few strategies:

1. Identify potential barriers: What might get in the way of achieving this goal?
2. Build resilience: How can you prepare for setbacks and stay committed?
3. Celebrate small wins: Recognize progress along the way to maintain motivation.

Sustaining Momentum

The initial excitement often fades as time progresses. Help your clients stay on track with these techniques:

• Regular check-ins: Schedule periodic reviews to assess progress and adjust plans as needed.
• Accountability partnerships: Encourage clients to share their goals with someone who can support and encourage them.
• Focus on the “why”: Revisit the deeper purpose behind their goals to reignite motivation.‍
• Change the goal: Sometimes what you thought you wanted does not end up being what you wanted after all. Don't feel like you have to stay committed to something that you actually don't want.

For Coaches: Setting Your Own Goals

For coaches, shifts also provide an opportunity to reflect on their practice. Consider questions like:

• How have I grown as a coach?
• What new skills  would enhance my work?
• How can I better support my clients in 2024?

Setting your own transformative goals not only enriches your coaching but also models the principles you bring to your clients.

Closing Thoughts

New times offer a natural opportunity to reset and refocus. By applying coaching principles, you can help your clients (and yourself!) set goals that inspire, empower, and transform. Remember, sustainable change is built on observations of change, small, consistent actions and a deep connection to purpose.

If you want to talk about your changes, goals and opportunities, why not come to one our free meetup and exchanges?

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