It's about progress, not perfection

I recently read an article by Margaret Moore who founded the Coaching Psychology Institute. "What it Takes to Change" is yet another way of helping your clients if they get stuck. Imagine the influence you will have once you implement part of, if not all of, this approach as well as Motivational Interviewing. When coaching, remember not all people respond to the same stimulus. It's up to you to figure it out...that's why they pay you the big bucks!!

What it takes to change--have your clients think about these:
1. What's working NOW for my health and well being?
Meaning: Try not to be negative all the time. There has got to be some good happening as well.

2. What's my vision for change?
Meaning: Establish what and WHO they want to be when healthy. Remind them to RECALL that vision when they are tempted, when moments of decision will decide their fate.

3. Why does the change matter to me?
Meaning: Find the DEEPEST motivation they have for achieving their goal...why?

4. What strengths can I bring to the change process?
Meaning: What talent can they bring from another facet of life to help with THIS goal of health?

5. What are my greatest challenges, and how can I overcome them?
Meaning: Pick out not only the challenges, but go ahead NOW and discover ways to combat those, and beat those. What resources and people can they draws upon to help them overcome?

6. What are my first priorities for change and improvement?
Meaning: Make the list...what to do to reach their goal. What are they willing to work with for the next 2-3 months? )I once had a client say "I don't cook, clean, or leave work during the day--now make me healthier...")

7. How ready, confident, and committed am I to take the first steps?
Meaning: If they are confident they can reach their goal, it's time to move forward. If not, scaling back their goal is probably a good idea.

8. What will I do next week?
Meaning: Changes that last make baby steps...always have SMART goals in mind.

Below is a video I made to introduce UNC Cycling to the upcoming season of training 2 years ago.