After exploring a range of goals in multiple areas, it makes sense to choose which to focus on first. A coach supports the client by asking questions so they consider what is important, practical, and realistic. Through strategizing, the client chooses the goals they will focus on first.
Moving forward in the process of creating a strategy, the coach asks the client about barriers and how to move past each. The coach takes the time to list all barriers so that the client is prepared with their strategy to continue moving forward when something happens.
The coach asks about available and resources desired to move forward. Resources include skills, tools, people, and logistics. By listing resources available, the client is empowered to tap the resources and feels confident about the possibilities. By exploring resources desired, the strategy includes acquiring what it takes to make it happen effectively.
The coach partners with the client to create a strategy by asking for specific, measurable action steps to achieve the goals. The coach asks the client when they will complete each action step.
After the initial, broad exploration, a coaching session focuses on two to six goals (depending on complexity.) The action steps are primarily planned for the time between coaching sessions. The coach will ask the client how they are doing, what is working, what is not working, and to create the next list of action steps.
With the coach as a strategy partner, the client is developing a skill for exploring, choosing top priorities, planning specific action steps, evaluating progress, and continuing the forward focus.
