How Health Coaches Can Keep Clients Motivated Through the Winter Months
Winter poses a unique challenge for health coaches in keeping clients motivated as the colder, darker days can make it harder to keep up with healthy routines. Clients may find it difficult to stay active, eat healthily, and manage stress during the winter season. As health coaches, it is important to address these challenges mindfully and aid the client in maintaining consistency. By providing personalized support, relevant strategies, and an empathetic ear, health coaches can help clients navigate seasonal obstacles, ensuring they stay on track with their health goals. Achieving goals despite these challenges will foster a sense of accomplishment and increased self-efficacy that clients will take with them beyond the winter months.
If you are a health coach meeting with clients this winter, here are some tips to keep in mind: 
Practice Empathy and Positivity
Make sure to give your client space to share their emotions, and take time to listen and understand their situation. Affirm their feelings and let them know that you are there for them. Keep a positive tone and don’t allow the participant to get stuck in a cycle of negativity. Encourage them to remember what they are grateful for despite the challenges they face.
Schedule Regular Check-ins
Some individuals may need more check-ins than usual during this time, especially if they are expressing feelings of loneliness or struggling to engage in normal social activities. Encourage your client to meet with you more often and make yourself available for this.
Promote Healthy Choices
Remind your participant that sticking to healthy habits can reduce negative seasonal emotions. Work with the client to find solutions- for example, if they feel unmotivated to go out to the gym in the dark, share some home bodyweight workouts they can try, or encourage them to try a new form of exercise at home such as jumping rope, dancing, or following a workout video.
Celebrate Accomplishments
During each health coaching session, celebrate their progress, no matter how small, and emphasize the importance of these victories. Doing so can help shift their perspective and boost their motivation.
Encourage Self-Care
Remind the client of the importance of self-care for their physical and mental well-being. Encourage them to take time each day to do something they enjoy, such as a hobby or relaxing activity.
Set Realistic Goals
Certain goals may feel overwhelming to the client at this time. Encourage them to stick to a routine that feels manageable. Achieving small, short-term goals can help the client feel accomplished and motivated to do more.
Be Ready with Resources
Come prepared to each health coaching session with resources your clients may find useful. Providing them with sources such as healthy recipes, meditation videos, or positive podcasts from reputable sources may be the boost your client needs and will ensure all resources they use are legitimate.
Encourage Additional Support
Some individuals you’re coaching may need additional help outside of coaching. If needed, refer your client to a mental health professional for further support, particularly if they are concerned about Seasonal Affective Disorder.
By utilizing these strategies, coaches will be prepared to meet their clients’ needs and keep them consistent with their goals throughout the winter months. Always keep in mind that each client is unique and that active listening is key in providing tailored support and ensuring success for each individual.
References:
Does Health Coaching Improve Client Wellness? What The Research Says | AFPA
Seasonal Affective Disorder | Johns Hopkins Medicine
