The question I always ask is “What will achieving this goal mean to you? ” This question is key because goals must be energizing and values-driven to achieve results. If the goal isn’t meaningful enough, we need to dive deeper and find what the real goal should be.
Sometimes, a prospective client will want more clarification. That’s when I invite them to think about the impact of attaining this goal on different areas of their lives – personally, professionally, on their families, what their friends would say, etc. Most importantly, is how they feel inside. We are human beings, not human doings.
I’m not looking for a specific answer to the question. What I’m listening for is their energy around this goal. Is a boss ‘forcing’ coaching upon them? Did they choose a goal they think they “should” pursue?
Additionally, I tell prospective clients that when I sign on as their coach, their goals become MY goals too! I must believe that they legitimately care about this goal and that together we have a high probability of getting them to where they want to be.
Hope that helps!
Elene
