Eliciting change talk is a crucial technique in motivational interviewing that helps individuals express their own reasons for change. This approach not only empowers clients but also enhances their motivation to take action. Below are three diverse examples of eliciting change talk in a life coaching context.
A life coach is working with a client who is considering adopting a healthier lifestyle but feels overwhelmed by the changes.
The life coach might ask open-ended questions to help the client articulate their desire to change.
In this example, the coach focuses on the client’s values and goals related to health.
The coach could say, “I know that health is important to you. Can you tell me about a time when you felt your best? What was happening in your life then?”
This question encourages the client to reflect on their past experiences and the positive feelings associated with being healthy. As the client shares their story, they may identify personal motivations for change, such as wanting to have more energy for family activities or feeling more confident in social situations.
Encourage the client to elaborate on their feelings and thought processes. The coach can follow up with supportive statements like, “It sounds like being active with your family is something you really value.”
A client is contemplating a career change but is hesitant to leave their stable job. The life coach aims to help the client express their thoughts on this transition.
The coach might say, “What are some aspects of your current job that you enjoy? And what are some that you find unfulfilling?”
By asking this question, the coach invites the client to explore both the positive and negative aspects of their job. As the client discusses their feelings, they may reveal desires for growth, such as wanting to pursue their passion for art or work in a more dynamic environment.
As they articulate these thoughts, the client can begin to feel motivated to explore potential career paths that align with their interests.
Use reflective listening techniques to validate the client’s feelings. For example, “It sounds like you really enjoy the creativity in your work, but you feel stifled by the routine.” This helps the client to clarify their values and motivations.
A client struggles with procrastination and feels guilty about not completing tasks. The life coach aims to help the client identify their motivations for change.
The coach might say, “What would your life look like if you were able to overcome procrastination? Can you describe how that would feel?”
This question encourages the client to visualize a future free from procrastination. As they share their vision, they might express feelings of relief, increased productivity, and the ability to enjoy leisure time without guilt. This process can ignite the client’s intrinsic motivation to take actionable steps towards change.
Encourage the client to create a detailed vision of their future. The coach can ask follow-up questions like, “What specific activities would you like to engage in more?” This helps to reinforce the positive feelings associated with overcoming procrastination and cultivates a greater commitment to change.