I love starting to work with a new client. It’s a time of discovery, particularly about learning what they want to achieve. Once we’ve learned what their goals are, we can develop a plan of action to achieve them. While I have my own tips about goals, my way isn’t the only way.

To find the best methods for discovering and defining your goals, I’ve asked dozens of expert coaches to answer one question:

“What’s your favorite exercise for helping a client clarify their goals?”

“As a results coach, my clients’ goals are important. But I rarely use the word ‘goal’ because of the variety of associations my clients may have to the word. Instead, I refer to what the client wants as an Aspirational Result.

I created an exercise which I use at the beginning of the Self-Led Results program to help my clients choose what I call a ‘Self-Led Project,’ the project we will focus on while we work together. I assist with that choice, I have the client identify at least one change or improvement they would make in their Career/Avocation, Relationships, Well-Being, and Fun and Joy. After completing the exercise, I work with the client to help them rate how challenging it will be to achieve their aspirational result. I then encourage them to choose the one change or improvement that will make the biggest difference in their lives.”
—Bill Tierney, Results Coach, Certified IFS Practitioner

I’d love to add your expert opinion here too! Please reach out to me with your answer to the question above.