By Patrick Cahillane – Life, Executive & Business Coach with One Source International Coaching and Training and Founder of The One Source Personal Development Network
As a life coach, my ultimate goal is to help my clients create lasting change in their lives. Many people come to me feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or frustrated with their current situation. They may have tried to make changes in the past but failed to follow through or see results. Creating lasting change can be challenging, but it is possible with the right approach and mindset. Here are some tips on how to create lasting change with a client:
- Start with a clear goal: Before embarking on any change, it is essential to have a clear goal in mind. This goal should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. For example, instead of setting a vague goal like “I want to be healthier,” a more specific goal might be “I want to lose 10 pounds in the next three months by exercising four times a week and eating a balanced diet.”
- Identify obstacles: Once you have a clear goal, it’s important to identify any obstacles that might stand in the way of achieving it. These obstacles could be external, such as a lack of time or resources, or internal, such as limiting beliefs or fears. By identifying these obstacles, you can come up with strategies to overcome them and stay on track.
- Create a plan: A plan is essential for creating lasting change. This plan should include specific actions you will take to achieve your goal, as well as a timeline for when you will take them. It’s also important to identify potential roadblocks and come up with strategies to overcome them.
- Build habits: Habits are the foundation of lasting change. By making small changes and sticking to them consistently, you can build new habits that will support your goal. For example, if your goal is to exercise more, start by committing to 10 minutes of exercise each day. Once you have built this habit, you can gradually increase the time and intensity of your workouts.
- Stay accountable: Accountability is essential for creating lasting change. By sharing your goals and progress with a coach or accountability partner, you can stay motivated and on track. It’s also important to track your progress and celebrate small wins along the way.
- Embrace setbacks: Setbacks are a natural part of the change process. Instead of seeing them as failures, view them as opportunities to learn and grow. By reframing setbacks in this way, you can stay motivated and continue moving forward.
Creating lasting change takes time, effort, and commitment, but it is possible with the right approach. As a life coach, I work with my clients to identify their goals, overcome obstacles, and build habits that support lasting change. With the right mindset and support, anyone can create the life they desire.