How to Coach Yourself and Others Empowering Coaching And Crisis Interventions | Page 104

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Action Planning
Counselling is a developmental process. In the beginning phase, the focus is on the development of a strong
working relationship based on a contract that describes the work to be done and the respective roles of both the
counsellor and the client. The beginning phase is also concerned with problem identification and exploration.
This work provides the foundation for clients and counsellors to define goals. So attention to detail in the
beginning phase helps prevent problems from premature action. Problem exploration leads to goal setting,
which in turn forms the foundation for action planning.
Problem Exploration -> Goals -> Action Planning
Some clients will need additional coaching and support to develop and implement systematic action plans to
avoid the New Year’s resolution syndrome.
Action planning and implementation consists of a series of steps leading to the client’s goal (or subgoal). Put
simply, action planning involves developing strategies to help clients get where they want to go.
This involves four steps:
(1) identify alternatives for action,
(2) choose an action strategy,
(3) develop and implement plans, and
(4) evaluate outcomes.
Step 1: Identify Alternatives
The first task in selecting a plan is to list alternative ideas for achieving the goals. This step serves two purposes.
First, it holds clients back from impulsive action based on the first alternative available, which may simply be a
repeat of previous unsuccessful attempts at change. Second, it helps ensure that clients have choices based on a
full range of possibilities.
When there is choice, clients can make more rational decisions. Brainstorming is one way to quickly generate a
list of possibilities. To encourage clients to generate ideas, counsellors can use leads such as these: “Let your
imagination run wild and see how many different ideas you can come up with that will help you achieve your
goals.” “Don’t worry for now about whether it’s a good idea or a bad one.” Sometimes counsellors can prompt
clients to be creative by generating a few “wild” ideas of their own.
The following interview excerpt illustrates goal-setting techniques. Prior to this dialogue, exploration and active
listening enabled the counsellor to develop a solid base of understanding. With this work apparently finished, it
seems timely to move on to goal setting.
Dialogue
Counsellor: You’ve talked about how you’re determined to change—as you put it, “now or never.” That
suggests to me that you’re ready to set a change goal.
Client: Yeah, I can’t go on living like this. Something has to happen, and soon.
Counsellor: I think it might be helpful at this point to figure out what you want to achieve, what you’d like to
change. This would give you something to work toward. What do you think?
Client: Sounds good. I think it’s time to do something. For one thing I really haven’t invested too much in my
marriage. I have to change my priorities.
Counsellor: What do you mean