How to Get the Most Out of Your Health Coaching

Identify and Set Clear Goals

Before starting your health coaching journey, take some time to reflect on what you want to achieve. Whether it’s improving your nutrition, increasing physical activity, managing stress, or achieving a specific health outcome, having clear and specific goals will help you and your coach create a focused plan.

Be Ready to Share

Honesty is crucial in any coaching relationship. Be open about your current habits, challenges, and any concerns you may have. Your health coach is there to support you, not judge you. Sharing accurate information will enable your coach to tailor their advice and strategies to your unique needs.

Stay on Track

Consistency is key to achieving lasting results. Attend all scheduled coaching sessions and actively take part in the process. Follow through on the action steps and recommendations provided by your coach. Remember, change takes time, and staying committed to the process will yield the best results.

Stay in Touch

Effective communication is essential for a successful coaching relationship. Keep your coach informed about your progress, any obstacles you encounter, and any adjustments you need to make. Regular check-ins, whether through in-person meetings, phone calls, or emails, will help you stay on track and make necessary adjustments to your plan.

Use Your Time Effectively

Come to each coaching session prepared. Review your progress since the last session, note any challenges or successes, and think about any questions or topics you want to discuss. Being prepared will make your sessions more productive and ensure you get the most out of your time with your coach.

Embrace Accountability

One of the significant benefits of health coaching services is the accountability they provide. Embrace this aspect of the coaching relationship and use it to stay motivated. Knowing that someone is there to support you and hold you accountable can be a powerful motivator to stay on track with your goals.

Don’t Just Collect Resources, Use Them

Health coaches often provide various resources, such as handouts, recipes, workout plans, and wellness tips. Make sure to utilize these resources to enhance your journey. Organize them in a way that is easily accessible, whether digitally or in a physical folder, so you can refer to them whenever needed.

Patience

Change doesn’t happen overnight. Be patient with yourself and the process. Understand that there may be setbacks along the way, and that’s okay. Flexibility is essential; be willing to adjust your plan as needed based on your progress and any new insights you gain.

Savor Your Victories

Acknowledge and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small they may seem. Celebrating your successes will boost your motivation and reinforce positive behaviors. Share your wins with your coach, and let them celebrate with you.

Stay Positive

Maintaining a positive attitude is crucial for success. Focus on the progress you’re making rather than dwelling on any setbacks. A positive mindset will help you stay motivated and resilient throughout your health coaching journey.

Conclusion

A health coach is a valuable ally on your journey to wellness. To maximize that support, you need to do more than just show up. You’ll want to define your goals clearly, share your experiences honestly, and stay committed to the process. Keep in contact with your coach so you both stay aligned. Be accountable and be receptive to your coach’s voice. Don’t just collect resources, use them. Be patient; change takes time. And don’t forget to acknowledge and celebrate every success, big or small. Keeping a positive outlook will sustain your momentum. When you approach coaching this way, you’ll see real, lasting progress in your health and well-being.

Author

Brittany Kowalski
Brittany Kowalski was one of the very first Nationally Board-Certified Health and Wellness Coaches in the country and earned her original certification through the University of Delaware’s Graduate program.While sports medicine was her first passion, she became drawn to preventative approaches with her patients and threw herself into learning ways to help motivate people to manage and prevent chronic diseases. Her diverse experiences as a health promotion specialist including diabetes lifestyle coaching, mental health initiatives, and even laughter therapy programs, have allowed her to walk beside and help guide people on their wellness journeys. Over her career, she has been sought out as an expert in the field of Health Coaching including speaking opportunities for the American Diabetes Association, the Medical Affairs Professionals Global Conference, Rutgers University, American College of Preventative Medicine, and the National Wellness Conference.In addition to her work as a clinician, she has also helped to initiate health coaching programs in various large-scale hospitals across the nation with focuses on cardiometabolic, pulmonary, bariatric, and physical therapy.

Brittany Kowalski Director of Client Solutions

Brittany Kowalski was one of the very first Nationally Board-Certified Health and Wellness Coaches in the country and earned her original certification through the University of Delaware’s Graduate program.While sports medicine was her first passion, she became drawn to preventative approaches with her patients and threw herself into learning ways to help motivate people to manage and prevent chronic diseases. Her diverse experiences as a health promotion specialist including diabetes lifestyle coaching, mental health initiatives, and even laughter therapy programs, have allowed her to walk beside and help guide people on their wellness journeys. Over her career, she has been sought out as an expert in the field of Health Coaching including speaking opportunities for the American Diabetes Association, the Medical Affairs Professionals Global Conference, Rutgers University, American College of Preventative Medicine, and the National Wellness Conference.In addition to her work as a clinician, she has also helped to initiate health coaching programs in various large-scale hospitals across the nation with focuses on cardiometabolic, pulmonary, bariatric, and physical therapy.

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