Need to focus? Get coaching!

04/01/08 07:48 Filed in: Coaching basics | Focus | Inquire
I like daily conversation. It flows freely, covers a range of topics, is not too focused, and is relaxing. How about you?

But when I want to achieve a goal, I need a focused conversation. I need a conversation focuses me on:
  1. Talking about a goal, instead of a topic.
  2. Talking only about my goal, instead of talking about a range of topics.
  3. Brainstorming options for taking action on my goal, instead of shooting the breeze.
  4. Developing SMART actions I’ll take to achieve my goal, instead of tossing around ideas.
Coaching conversations help me do these 4 things. In a coaching conversation:
  1. A coach asks, “What’s your goal?” He listens to my response and asks additional questions to help me clarify my goal, to bring it into focus.
  2. A coach asks, “What’s going on?” to help focus on the current status of my goal. And if I start to get off topic, he helps me get back on track.
  3. A coach asks, “What are your options?” He encourages me to brainstorm 5 or more options. As a result of focusing on developing a range of options, I can see more clearly how I can move forward on my goal.
  4. A coach asks, “What 2-3 SMART actions will you take?” This helps me focus on achieving my goal. After all, to achieve a goal, I have to do something.
To what extent would a coaching conversation help you focus on achieving your goal?