Make a time commitment. Most coaches work with their clients for one hour each week. Carefully examine your schedule and block out one hour each week for personal growth and development. Whenever possible, select a day when you do not have many family and work commitments. Let your family know that you are unavailable at this time.
At the beginning of each session, take about five minutes to decompress from your busy day or life. You can meditate, listen to music or sit quietly in your favorite chair. Find a room or space away from the main areas of your home. It is important to start each session with a calm, focused frame of mind.
Select one problem or issue in your life. Do not attempt to solve all your health, relationship and career problems in one sitting. Remember, you only have 60 minutes and you must use your time well. Most issues will require at least five sessions; do not try to solve your problems within a set period.
Set a timer for ten minutes. Use a journal or online personal blog to write, without stopping or editing, about any aspects of your problem or issue. For example, if you are contemplating retirement, you could write about financial concerns, changes in relationships, future travel opportunities, hobbies and leisure activities. Do not force yourself to be positive; let your feelings and emotions unravel without any censure or judgment.
Select a self-help book that addresses your problem or issue. It could be one you have already read or one that is highly recommended. Work through the book slowly, chapter by chapter, completing any suggested exercises. In most cases, you will complete one chapter during each personal coaching session. Use a separate notebook or binder to organize your notes and completed exercises.
Start subsequent sessions by reviewing previous journal entries and completed exercises. Resist the urge to add or delete any information. You are on a life journey and the path will not always be a linear one. Some weeks, you will have great insights and feel confident about your future. You may also have weeks where you write and accomplish very little.