<![CDATA[Virtual Health Coaches - Blogs for Coaches]]>Fri, 12 Jun 2026 01:25:12 -0400Weebly<![CDATA[Year-End Business Review for Coaches: Simple, Clear, Done]]>Tue, 11 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMThttps://www.virtualhealthcoaches.com/coaches/year-end-business-review-for-coaches-simple-clear-doneWritten by: Claudia Haller NBC-HWC
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I know- it’s only November, and your to-do-list for the year has quite a few items that need to be crossed off, but this is the best time to talk about reflection, so that December can be about planning for the new year.

Before you dive into new goals or shiny offers for next year, take a breath and look back. A good business review isn’t about spreadsheets and stress. It’s about clarity.

Here’s how to make it simple:
1. Celebrate the wins first.
Coaches tend to skip this part. But before you fix what didn’t work, acknowledge what did.
Ask yourself:
  • What am I proud of this year?
  • What felt easier than last year - and why?
  • What client moments reminded me why I love this work?
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2. Identify what drained you.
What did you dread doing? Where did you lose energy, time, or joy?
Maybe it’s an offer that no longer fits or a system that constantly breaks. Recognize it, release it, and make space for better alignment.

3. Look at your numbers (without judgment).
No guilt, no shame - just data.
How many clients did you support? What offers brought the most satisfaction (financially and emotionally)?  What’s your client renewal rate?

4. Reflect on your growth.
What new skills, certifications, or experiences shaped you as a coach this year? Even the messy lessons count, especially those.

5. Capture the insights.
End with one takeaway per category: Wins, Challenges, Systems, Clients, Personal Growth. That’s your Year-End Review, done and dusted.

Remember: 
Reflection creates clarity - and clarity fuels better decisions for the year ahead.

Imagine a space where coaches share strategies, client wins, and real conversations about building sustainable coaching careers. That’s what we’re creating at Virtual Health Coaches- come join us.
]]><![CDATA[Visibility and Connection: Building Your Coaching Business the Authentic Way]]>Thu, 09 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMThttps://www.virtualhealthcoaches.com/coaches/visibility-and-connection-building-your-coaching-business-the-authentic-wayWritten by: Claudia Haller NBC-HWC
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​Most coaches I talk to agree on one thing: it’s not the coaching itself that’s hard, it’s putting ourselves out there. Visibility feels uncomfortable. Self-promotion feels awkward. Social media feels overwhelming. And yet, the truth is, what we have to offer is deeply needed.

The first mindset shift? Believing that your coaching can change someone’s life. Andrea Nordling says it best: “Believe in you, believe in your people, believe in your offer, and believe in what’s possible.” I loved this so much I wrote it on a sticky note and put it on my computer as a daily reminder. It helps me shift my focus back to what matters when visibility feels scary.
When you carry that belief, visibility stops being about shouting louder. It becomes about showing up where the right people are and letting them know you can help.

In fact, sometimes visibility is as simple as listening. Active listening, really paying attention to the people around you, not just potential clients, opens the door to connection. And sometimes all it takes is four words: I can help you. That in itself is a sales conversation, rooted in service, not strategy.

From September’s Reset to October’s Growth
Last month, our focus was Back to (Better) Business: Structure, Systems, and Sustainability. I hope you took time to lay down those foundations. If not, go back to September’s article where you will find practical tips you can still use. And of course, our Coaching Community is here for you. If you are not a member yet, you can join us here. These monthly themes are not one-and-done; they build on each other as we grow together.

Now it’s time to shift. With systems in place, we can open the doors, step into the world, and invite people in.

Visibility Is Not Vanity Metrics
It’s easy to fall into the trap of chasing likes, followers, and views. But those numbers don’t always translate into clients.
What actually matters?
  • Consistency: small, steady actions that people can count on.
  • Clarity: being clear about what you do and how you help.
  • Connection: showing up as a human, not just as an expert.
That is what builds trust.

Where to Focus Your Energy
You don’t have to be everywhere. In fact, you probably should not be.
Choose one or two platforms where your ideal clients actually spend time. And when you show up, speak their language. As educated coaches, we know the “coach speak,” but clients don’t use that language in their everyday lives. They do not say, “I need support with behavior change strategies.” They say, “I am exhausted, I can’t keep up, and I just want to feel like myself again.”

Your clients likely do not care about the latest industry buzz words. They just want to feel heard and taken care of. Effective communication will enable you to build stronger relationships, to better understand your clients’ needs, and of course, to leave them feeling happier with the experience you give them.

This means using language that makes sense to them, paying attention to tone, and (probably most important) showing empathy! But it all starts with active listening.
The only way to learn their words is to listen. What are your people saying? What is keeping them up at night?

Reflect their language back to them, and they will feel understood.

Connection Over Transaction
Visibility is more about creating genuine relationships than simply being seen. Share your values, your stories, your behind-the-scenes moments. Let people connect with you, not just your expertise.

And always remember to engage: respond to comments, ask questions, collaborate with others. Most of all, show up with a mindset of service. When your intention is to help, it comes back around. Connection is the bridge to conversion, but it starts with being of service first.

Action Steps for Coaches
To keep it simple, choose one visibility habit and one connection habit:
  • Visibility habit: Post once a week, send a monthly newsletter, or share one story that shows who you are.
  • Connection habit: Comment thoughtfully on five posts each week or reach out to one colleague for a genuine conversation.
Track your two habits for 30 days. Small, repeatable actions lead to big results.

A Reflection for You
Visibility and connection are not quick hacks. They are long-game strategies that compound over time.

Ask yourself: Am I showing up where it matters most, in a way that feels authentic to me?

If the answer is yes, keep going. If the answer is no, choose one small step and begin today.

Further Reading & Inspiration
If you want to go deeper into building visibility and genuine connections, here are a few resources worth exploring:
Works Cited:
Brown, Brene. Daring Greatly : How the Courage to Be Vulnerable Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead. 2017.

“Communication Skills for Customer Service and Why They’re Important - Glion.” Glion, 15 May 2025, www.glion.edu/magazine/communication-skills-customer-service.

Miller, Donald. Building a StoryBrand 2. 0 Clarify Your Message so Customers Will Listen. 2025.
Nordling, Andrea. The Profitable Nutritionist. “Wellness Business Coaching With Andrea Nordling.” The Profitable Nutritionist®, 7 May 2025, theprofitablenutritionist.com.

Porterfield, Amy. The Online Marketing Made Easy Podcast. Digital Marketing Podcast, www.amyporterfield.com/digital-marketing-podcast.
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Schaefer, Mark. Known: The Handbook for Building and Unleashing Your Personal Brand in the Digital Age. 2017.
]]><![CDATA[Back to (Better) Business: Structure, Systems, and Sustainability]]>Tue, 16 Sep 2025 04:00:00 GMThttps://www.virtualhealthcoaches.com/coaches/back-to-better-business-structure-systems-and-sustainabilityWritten by: Claudia Haller NBC-HWC
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September has a way of bringing fresh energy. After a season of slower rhythms, family time, and a bit of looseness in schedules, many of us feel ready to get back to business. For coaches, this is the perfect moment to pause, take stock, and build momentum before the last quarter of the year.

This month, our theme is Back to (Better) Business, and it centers around three powerful areas: structure, systems, and sustainability. These are not glamorous, but they are the backbone of a coaching practice that thrives without draining you.

Structure: Refining Your Coaching Offers
A clear offer creates clarity, not just for clients, but also for you as a coach. When you know exactly what you are offering and why, confidence follows. September is a good time to review your coaching packages. Do they reflect the transformation you want clients to experience? Are they easy to explain? Are you excited to deliver them? Sometimes even a small change in structure, like adjusting the number of sessions or reframing the way you describe the outcome, can make a significant difference in how your offers are received.

Systems: Organizing Client Tools and Workflows
Behind every great coaching experience is a system that runs smoothly. Onboarding, scheduling, session notes, follow-ups, and communication can either feel scattered or seamless. This month, take a closer look at your workflows. Are your tools helping you save time or creating more work? Do your clients feel supported and cared for through the process? A little effort to simplify and streamline now can create a sense of ease for both you and your clients all year long.
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YOU DO NOT RISE TO THE LEVEL OF YOUR GOALS.
YOU FALL TO THE LEVEL OF YOUR SYSTEMS - JAMES CLEAR
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Sustainability: Marketing and Goal-Setting That Lasts
Marketing is not about pushing yourself to do everything at once. It is about finding the rhythm you can sustain. Instead of trying to be everywhere, choose one or two channels where you can show up consistently. Pair that with marketing habits you enjoy, whether it is writing, video, or conversations. As you build that rhythm, focus on setting realistic fall goals. Not the kind of goals that add pressure and fizzle out by October, but meaningful ones that create steady growth.

Using September as a Launchpad
Think of September as a launchpad into Q4. The energy and clarity you invest now in your offers, systems, and habits will carry you through the end of the year with more focus and less stress.

Community Connection
This month inside the community we will explore these topics through polls, discussions, and Q and A posts. You can also lean on resources like the Coaching Directory for visibility and the Content Planner Tool for consistency. These tools are designed to help you strengthen the backbone of your business and free you up to do what you love most: coaching. (These resources are available for our Inner Circle members only)

Recommended Resources for Going Back to Better Business
If you would like to dive deeper into this month’s theme, here are a few helpful tools and resources:

BooksPodcastsTools
👉 Where do you feel most ready to strengthen your business this fall: offers, systems, or marketing habits?

If you are a board-certified or board-eligible health and wellness coach, we would love to have you inside the Virtual Health Coaches Community to join the discussion. It is a space to connect with peers, share insights, and get support as you grow your practice. Click here to join us.
]]><![CDATA[Coaching Clients Through Stress: Tools for Healing and Resilience]]>Tue, 01 Apr 2025 04:00:00 GMThttps://www.virtualhealthcoaches.com/coaches/coaching-clients-through-stress-tools-for-healing-and-resilienceWritten by: Claudia Haller NBC-HWC
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As beautiful as life is, it sure does have some difficult moments. Nothing lightens the load like having a hand to hold, or to pull us up, as we navigate those stressful times. At some point or another, we all experience this side of things, leaning on others to get us through. But as health and wellness coaches, we often get to stand on the other side, to be that support beam that is just what our clients need in a particularly challenging time of their lives.

What an honor it is to be able to step into that role, to provide that helpful hand, and to guide our clients through it all! From work challenges to family dynamics, the weight of stress can quickly overwhelm, leaving our clients feeling stuck and uncertain about how to manage it all. But as coaches, we have powerful tools at our disposal to help our clients navigate these moments and foster healthier responses to stress.

Stress Management: A Key Skill for Wellness
First, it's important to understand that stress isn’t just a feeling; it has real, measurable effects on the body and mind. Chronic stress can increase inflammation, weaken the immune system, and contribute to conditions like heart disease, anxiety, and depression. As coaches, we can help our clients reduce these risks by teaching them effective stress management techniques.
 
Digging Deeper: Understanding the Root of Stress
To effectively manage stress, it’s crucial to first understand where it’s coming from. As coaches, we can guide our clients in exploring the underlying causes of their stress. Often, the stress isn’t just about the immediate pressures they face but about deeper emotional triggers that haven’t been addressed.

Encourage your clients to ask themselves: What is stressing them out most? Are they struggling to set boundaries, feeling overwhelmed by the expectations of others? Are they being triggered by the constant barrage of news, or are certain people’s comments or judgments causing them to feel inadequate or anxious? When clients take time to reflect on the root causes, they can better understand how these stressors are impacting their physical and emotional health. By identifying these sources, they can start to implement strategies like mindfulness, meditation, and journaling to address and manage them effectively.

Just remember to always stay within the scope of your practice. Sometimes a client’s situation may fall outside of your area of expertise; don’t be afraid to refer them to another type of professional, like a therapist, when appropriate.

Mindfulness and meditation go hand-in-hand with one another and are two of the most beneficial practices we can introduce. Mindfulness is “the practice of being fully present and aware of your current experience, without overreacting or getting lost in thoughts”). This is often achieved through meditation, which is a skill that involves focusing your attention to cultivate mindfulness and a sense of calm.
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Learn more about the many different kinds of meditation here!
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The Science Behind Mindfulness and Meditation
Research shows that mindfulness not only reduces stress but also increases emotional regulation, improves sleep, and enhances cognitive function. This practice, along with meditation, encourages clients to tune into the present moment, break the cycle of overthinking, and create a sense of calm amidst chaos.

Scientific studies back up the power of mindfulness. For instance, a Harvard research team led by Sara Lazar, found that mindfulness meditation can actually change the structure of the brain. Study participants took part in eight weeks of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR). Findings included increased cortical thickness in the hippocampus (the area of the brain responsible for learning and memory) as well as parts of the brain that deal with emotional regulation and self-referential processing (how we process information about ourselves). Not only that, but mindfulness meditation causes decreases in areas of the brain responsible for fear, anxiety, and stress.

By teaching your clients how to incorporate mindfulness into their daily routines, whether through breathing exercises or mindful movement, you are empowering them to reduce stress and improve their well-being.

We often think of yoga in conjunction with mindfulness and meditation. Yoga is its own separate practice, with many components that go beyond mindfulness, including physical poses that improve flexibility, strength, and balance. While yoga and mindfulness can be practiced independently, we often find them woven together. Yoga integrates breathwork, mind-body connection, and focus. As a whole, well-rounded practice, yoga often includes components of meditation. In fact, yoga classes typically end with a meditation posture, called Savasana (and if you’ve never taken a yoga class, trust me…go for the Savasana)!
Yoga is known for its significant ability to alleviate stress. Studies show that it can reduce depressive symptoms, balance the nervous system, reduce inflammation, and maintain neurotransmitters.
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Havening: A Powerful Technique for Emotional Healing
Mindfulness and meditation aren't the only techniques that can help clients manage stress. Havening, a neuro-therapy that involves sensory input, specifically physical touch combined with visualization, has proven to be incredibly effective in helping clients release emotional trauma and manage stress. This technique was transformative for my mentor, who faced intense emotional trauma.

For anyone who remembers the 9/11 attacks on the United States, the memory is most likely a traumatic one, whether you witnessed the terrible impact on the TV screen or experienced it firsthand. My mentor escaped from Tower 1 that day. She also happened to be pregnant at the time. Bringing new life into the world amidst such tragedy compounds the fear and sadness that we were all certainly feeling.  Years later, she found herself in the terrifying position of being trapped, caught up in a train crash. The trauma from both events became so intertwined with her core memories, sense of self, and her life as a whole, that it often left her feeling paralyzed. A driven, type-A woman, she had always prided herself on her strength and resilience. Yet, the mere sight of a deep blue sky, reminiscent of the same sky on that tragic September 11th morning, would trigger panic attacks.

Havening helped her heal. Through this technique, she was able to rewire her brain's response to these traumatic memories, gradually releasing the grip they had on her. Her healing process was nothing short of miraculous, and it allowed her to reclaim her life. Havening didn’t just change her personally; it transformed her into an incredible mentor who was able to use her experiences for good. She has since been able to guide me and many other individuals who have been lucky enough to benefit from her inspiring growth.

It's important to note that becoming a Havening Practitioner requires specific training and certification. If you are interested in learning more about this technique and how it can be incorporated into your coaching practice, you can find more information here. For coaches who are not yet certified in Havening, don’t worry! There are plenty of other techniques you can incorporate into your practice to help your clients.
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 The Benefits of Journaling for Stress Management
Journaling is another powerful tool for stress management that is easy to integrate into your clients’ daily routines. The simple act of putting thoughts and feelings onto paper helps clear the mind, reduce mental clutter, and bring clarity to overwhelming emotions.

Studies have shown that journaling can lower cortisol levels, the body's primary stress hormone, which reduces stress and promotes emotional resilience. In one such study, by Frontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience, individuals were asked to write about a past failure, before being exposed to a new stressor. As it turned out, those who wrote about their past failures exhibited lessened stress responses compared with those who did not. This was determined by collecting cheek swab samples and testing cortisol levels in the participants. Presumably, exposure to a stressful experience should increase cortisol levels…but it was significantly lower in those who partook in expressive writing beforehand! The takeaway here is that journaling reduces your cortisol response to new stressors. Write about the past, and stress less about the future!

Studies also show that expressive writing promotes emotional strength by enhancing certain pathways within the brain, specifically those responsible for memory and cognitive control. According to the Child Mind Institute, the brain is like a network of interconnected pathways. “The more you use a particular pathway, the stronger it becomes. Journaling is like exercising the brain’s emotional regulation ‘muscles.’” In other words, journaling helps to build long-term mental and emotional resilience.
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Journaling can also help clients process difficult emotions, track patterns in their thoughts and behaviors, and find solutions to ongoing challenges. For clients struggling with stress, anxiety, or trauma, journaling can be a therapeutic outlet for releasing pent-up feelings and gaining a sense of control over their experiences.

Encourage your clients to start with small, daily journaling practices, whether it’s a few lines in the morning to set their intentions or an evening reflection on the day’s events. Journaling helps clients create a space for self-expression and self-awareness, which are critical elements for long-term stress management.
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Incorporating Stress Management into Your Coaching Practice
As coaches, we can support our clients by helping them find stress management strategies that resonate with them. If you’re not certified in Havening or looking to add more tools to your toolbox, mindfulness, meditation, and yoga are fantastic alternatives. These practices can easily be woven into your coaching sessions, helping clients reduce stress, increase resilience, and promote well-being. You don’t need another certification to make a significant impact, just a few tools that can bring immediate value to your clients' daily routines.

Whether it’s mindfulness techniques like focused breathing, meditation for calming the mind, yoga to release physical tension, or journaling to process emotions, these tools can be incredibly effective in supporting your clients' stress management journey. When clients learn to recognize and reduce stress, they experience a greater sense of well-being, clarity, and control, key factors in living a healthy, vibrant life.

Stress Management as a Lifelong Practice
Helping clients manage stress is not just about easing their burdens; it’s about equipping them with lifelong practices that will help them thrive. By incorporating mindfulness, meditation, yoga, journaling, and Havening into your coaching practice, you provide clients with powerful tools for overcoming stress, healing from emotional trauma, and building lasting resilience.

If you’re interested in learning more about my mentor’s inspiring journey and how Havening can support your clients, you can read her full story here, or reach out to me for more information. 

Here is a peek at what you’ll find on her website:
I first learned about Havening when Dr. Ron Ruden asked me to be a demo for his first Havening training in NYC in 2013. He knew I had escaped from Tower I on 9/11 (while I was pregnant) and thought Havening me would be a compelling demonstration of the power of Havening. I had never heard of Havening before, but I found myself in front of a room full of trainees telling my story. As I began to relay my experience, I was flooded with emotions I didn't even realize still existed! But, at the end of the short Havening session, my 9/11 experience felt very far away. I was shocked, surprised, and euphoric - I couldn't believe how much lighter I felt from under an hour of Havening!  Needless to say, I was more than intrigued by how quickly and profoundly the Havening Techniques changed how I viewed my 9/11 experience.

https://www.metamorphosishavening.com/
 
Claudia is an NBC-HWC Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach, the owner of Vibrant Health by Claudia LLC  and Virtual Health Coaches LLC. She studied Health and Wellness Coaching at the Institute for Integrative Nutrition where she also completed courses in Gut Health, Hormone Health, and Advanced Coaching. She is a Havening TechniquesⓇ Certified Practitioner and certified 21-Day Sugar Detox Coach as well as a co-author of three Amazon Bestsellers “The Ultimate Guide to Creating Your Soul Aligned Business”,  “The Ultimate Guide to Becoming a Successful Soul Professional” and “The Ultimate Guide To Leaving Your Legacy.”

To schedule a time for a free information call click here or join her Vibrant Health Power Community - a free Facebook Group - here. 
 
Sources:
Become a Certified Practitioner. www.havening.org/about-havening/become-a-certified-practitioner.
 
DiMenichi, Brynne C., et al. “Writing About Past Failures Attenuates Cortisol Responses and Sustained Attention Deficits Following Psychosocial Stress.” Frontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience, vol. 12, Mar. 2018, https://doi.org/10.3389/fnbeh.2018.00045.
 
Haller, Claudia. “Multiple Paths, One Destination: A Comparative Look at Meditation Practices — Vibrant Health by Claudia.” Vibrant Health by Claudia, 19 Mar. 2024, www.vibranthealthbyclaudia.com/blog/multiple-paths-one-destination-a-comparative-look-at-meditation-practices?rq=mindfulness.
 
Hölzel, Britta K., et al. “Mindfulness Practice Leads to Increases in Regional Brain Gray Matter Density.” Psychiatry Research Neuroimaging, vol. 191, no. 1, Nov. 2010, pp. 36–43. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pscychresns.2010.08.006.
 
Mazzarisi, Alex. “Beyond the Mood Boost: How Journaling Rewires Your Brain for Resilience.” Child Mind Institute, 13 Mar. 2025, childmind.org/blog/how-journaling-rewires-your-brain-for-resilience.
 
“Metamorphosis Havening.” theMetamorphosisBlog, www.metamorphosishavening.com.
 
Walton, Alice G., PhD. “7 Ways Meditation Can Actually Change the Brain.” Forbes, 9 Feb. 2015, www.forbes.com/sites/alicegwalton/2015/02/09/7-ways-meditation-can-actually-change-the-brain.
 
“What Is Mindfulness?” Mindful, 14 Mar. 2025, www.mindful.org/what-is-mindfulness.

Claudia Haller is a certified practitioner of Havening Techniques. Havening Techniques is a registered trademark of Ronald Ruden, 15 East 91st Street, New York.
]]><![CDATA[How to Create an Effective Action Plan for Client Success: A Practical Guide for Coaches]]>Tue, 04 Mar 2025 05:00:00 GMThttps://www.virtualhealthcoaches.com/coaches/how-to-create-an-effective-action-plan-for-client-success-a-practical-guide-for-coachesWritten by: Claudia Haller NBC-HWC
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Creating an action plan for client success is more than just setting goals and tracking progress. It’s about crafting a personalized, practical roadmap that aligns with your client’s strengths, personality, and pace. When creating an action plan for your client, it’s easy to get lost in the weeds of detailed strategies. For the understanding of your client, it is crucial to keep it simple, relatable, and achievable.

1. Clarify the End Goal
Start by helping your client get crystal clear on their end goal. This isn’t just about setting a vague “I want to be healthier” type of goal. It’s about defining what health really means to them. Does it mean more energy? Better mental clarity? Less stress? How will achieving this goal feel to them? How would life be different?

Be intentional in asking your client exactly what this would look and feel for them. For example, it could be that your client has a big event coming up and wants to be able to feel comfortable in their formal attire on the dance floor and in photographs. It could also be that your client just wants to feel comfortable going to the grocery store without thinking twice about what to wear! Whatever it is, get specific. Clarifying the end goal is extremely helpful because it provides something definitive and tangible to work toward.
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If your client is struggling to come up with something to move towards, you can use the SMART goal framework to help them create a specific, measurable, and time-bound target. The clearer they can picture their success, the more motivated they’ll be.

2. Build on Their Strengths
Now, let’s get personal. One of the most effective things you can do as a coach is to dig into your client’s strengths. This isn’t just a “nice” thing to do, it’s scientifically backed. According to Coaching Psychology experts like Margaret Moore, Erika Jackson, and Bob Tschannen-Moran, tapping into a person’s strengths is essential for long-term success (Ground Zero in Lifestyle Coaching - Margaret Moore). So, ask: What part of their personality has helped them succeed in the past? Are they determined? Resilient? Creative?

When you build on your client’s natural abilities, they’ll feel more confident in their ability to stick with the plan. For example, if they’re naturally detail-oriented, they might thrive in tracking their progress daily. If they’re motivated by others, a support group could be key. Encouraging your clients to harness the gifts they have already been given will create a much more positive outlook on reaching their goals than simply focusing on the progress to be made. At the end of the day, your clients want to be known. It is your role to know them and support them exactly as they are today.

3. Break It Down into Small, Achievable Steps
Goals are great, but an action plan is all about the steps it takes to get there. Looking at the big-picture goal can be really daunting and intimidating for your clients. Help your client break their goal into small, bite-sized tasks. Make them so simple that it’s hard to fail. Start small, get the momentum going, and slowly increase the complexity as they begin to see success. 

For example, if your client wants to lose 20 pounds, the goal might seem overwhelming at first. Your client will ask, but how is that possible?! Your role is to brainstorm with the client and break the goal down into smaller steps such as meal planning for the week, getting in three 30-minute workouts, and practicing mindful eating. As we make the goals more manageable for our clients, they will feel increasingly more capable and motivated to accomplish them.
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4. Add in Accountability and Support
An action plan is never complete without accountability. As a health coach, you are signed up to be your client’s accountability buddy! The primary tool for accountability is a series of check-ins; whether weekly or bi-weekly, these are a game changer for follow-through. Check-ins can be executed as a one-on-one meeting between you and your client or can be hosted by you in a group setting.

While personal coaching is the most effective form of accountability, modern technology can come in handy as a supplementary tool. We live in a world of instant gratification, so why not use technological innovation to your client’s advantage? Apps like Streaks or Habit Tracker can be incredibly motivating. When your clients check off their daily tasks and see their progress, they get that little burst of dopamine, which helps reinforce the new habits. It’s a simple but effective way to build momentum throughout the journey.

5. Be Flexible and Adjust When Needed
An action plan is a living, breathing thing. It’s not set in stone, and neither is your client’s success. Things will come up, life will throw curveballs, and that’s okay. Encourage your client to stay flexible and adjust as needed.

One of the most important parts of coaching is guiding your clients through setbacks. Remind them that growth doesn’t happen in a straight line. If something’s not working, it’s just feedback, not failure. Every client is different. Let them tweak their plan to fit what’s working for them.

6. Celebrate the Wins
Don’t skip over the celebrations. Every milestone, whether it’s sticking to a new habit for a week, hitting a workout target, or making a healthy meal choice, deserves recognition. Celebrating these small wins helps keep your client motivated and builds their confidence for the bigger ones.

Remember, the ultimate goal isn’t perfection; it’s progress. Celebrations do not have to be pushed off until your client meets their end goal, the process is just as worthy of praise! You and your client can and should celebrate each step they take toward their goal.
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Let’s Recap!!
Creating an effective action plan isn’t about giving your clients a generic checklist, it’s about understanding who they are, what makes them spark, and guiding them to build a plan that fits their lifestyle and strengths. By leveraging modern tools, breaking down big goals into manageable steps, and offering continuous support, you can equip them to set themselves up for long-term success. 
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Action plans will never be perfect; their creation and execution are all about finding the approach that works for your client and staying committed to the process. Keep it simple, keep it personal, and keep it moving forward.

Are you a board-certified health coach looking for more resources to guide your coaching, more clients, or a community of professionals pursuing the same goals as you? 
If so, Virtual Health Coaches would love to welcome you into our community! VHC is a vibrant, private community of coaches who are board-certified (NBC-HWC) or in a board-approved training program. Our platform intends to connect health seekers with a professional coach who acts as a partner and a guide for the complex health change process. We believe that board-certified coaches can make all the difference in making it easy for people to achieve better health. To learn more about our network and request to join, check out our website here. 

Other interesting resources:
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10979731/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK487697/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/medical-professionals/physical-medicine-rehabilitation/news/study-finds-wellness-coaching-benefits-last-over-time/mac-20431166
]]><![CDATA[How Coaching Shifts in the Winter Months: Adapting Strategies for Seasonal Needs]]>Tue, 04 Feb 2025 05:00:00 GMThttps://www.virtualhealthcoaches.com/coaches/how-coaching-shifts-in-the-winter-months-adapting-strategies-for-seasonal-needsWritten by: Claudia Haller NBC-HWC
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As a coach, you likely notice that your clients’ needs evolve as the seasons change. While the core principles of coaching stay the same, the winter months bring unique challenges and opportunities that require subtle adjustments in your approach. With the cold weather, shorter days, and the pressures associated with New Year’s resolutions, clients may feel overwhelmed and disconnected from their goals.

Winter coaching looks different from other seasons. Clients often need more support around motivation, energy levels, and managing the goals they’ve set for themselves in the new year. Here’s how to adapt your coaching strategies to help your clients succeed during these colder, darker months.

1. Acknowledging the Pressure of New Year's Goals 
The start of the year often comes with a sense of fresh resolve. However, many clients place immense pressure on themselves to make significant changes, setting lofty goals that can feel overwhelming by the time winter sets in. The excitement of a new year quickly meets the reality of shorter days and colder temperatures. The change of seasons can impact clients' energy and focus, making it harder to stay motivated and productive. As coaches, we know that it isn’t reasonable to expect instant progress…but it can still feel defeating when we don’t see fast results.  

Winter Coaching Tip: 
Recognize that while New Year’s goals are important, they can also be a source of stress. Help your clients to foster realistic goal-setting and to make adjustments that align with the realities of winter. Encourage them to revisit and recalibrate their goals, focusing on smaller, more manageable steps (More on this HERE). Work on breaking down their big resolutions into achievable micro-goals that they can realistically tackle, especially in the winter months. This might not be the best time for intense or aggressive goals…and that’s okay! Encouraging clients to set flexible, low-pressure goals for the winter months can help alleviate the stress of feeling behind. For example, there is nothing wrong with setting a goal to simply maintain their current fitness level for now. Rather than focusing on large, year-long goals, encourage clients to set seasonal goals that are more suited to their current energy levels.  You may also consider advising clients to focus on process-oriented goals, like developing a healthy morning routine, rather than outcome-based goals, like losing a specific amount of weight.
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Help your clients define clear, actionable steps that they can consistently work on without overburdening themselves. Remind them that progress is not always linear, and setbacks are part of the journey.
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2. Supporting Clients with Motivation During the Winter
With the reduced sunlight and colder temperatures, many people struggle with motivation during the winter months. Clients who were enthusiastic about their New Year’s resolutions may now feel less energized or even discouraged, making it difficult to stay on track with their goals. Some of your clients may even be afflicted with a condition called Seasonal Affective Disorder. While the change of seasons can affect us all, it casts an even darker shadow over those who experience seasonal depression. As a coach, it’s important to be aware of the emotional impact this can have on your clients.

(Click HERE to learn more about Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD).

A useful resource for you to check out is the Winter Blues Survival Guide: A Workbook for Overcoming SAD. This workbook by Norman E. Rosenthal, MD and Christine M. Benton can be used to record symptoms, gain awareness of seasonal patterns, and work on managing Seasonal Affective Disorder. It includes simple checklists and fill-in-the-blank forms, making it a great tool for coaches and clients to use together. While primarily focused on SAD, it can be used by any client experiencing a winter slump or low mood. 

Winter Coaching Tip:  
Help clients identify what truly motivates them beyond the initial excitement of the new year. Encourage them to dig deeper into their “why” and reassess their goals if necessary. Remind them that winter is a time to slow down and nurture themselves and that taking smaller steps to maintain momentum is often more sustainable than pushing for rapid results. Be empathetic and knowledgeable about the challenges that seasonal depression can create. Offer encouragement and celebrate small wins to keep spirits high.

3. Addressing Emotional Well-Being and Self-Care
It’s clear that winter can exacerbate emotional challenges, between the pressure of New Year’s goals and the effects of dreary weather.

The combination of seasonal changes and self-imposed expectations can lead to frustration, guilt, or burnout if clients aren’t careful.

Whether your clients suffer from SAD or just the ordinary winter blues, part of your job as a coach is to help them take care of those emotions.
 
Winter Coaching Tip: 
Provide extra emotional support in your sessions. Encourage clients to create self-care routines that focus on their mental and emotional well-being. This could include activities like journaling, meditation, or simply giving themselves permission to rest when needed. It’s important to help clients manage expectations and practice self-compassion, especially if they haven’t been able to fully keep up with their resolutions. Winter is a time to recalibrate, not to push through at all costs. The colder months naturally encourage more reflection and rest. Coaches can help clients reframe the slower pace of winter as a time for introspection and self-care, rather than feeling like they should push through the cold, dark months at full speed.
 
A wonderful book, either to recommend to your clients, or to read yourself to help guide them, is "Wintering: The Power of Rest and Retreat in Difficult Times" by Katherine May". While not specifically a coaching book, this beautifully written book explores the importance of embracing the slower, quieter pace of winter. May discusses how winter is a time to reflect, rest, and rejuvenate, which can be helpful for coaches who want to guide their clients through the seasonal emotional shifts. It provides a metaphorical framework for understanding the winter months and could be useful when coaching clients who need to embrace this time for restoration rather than pushing through.
 
Another great book is "The Mindful Coach: Seven Roles for Helping People Grow" by Doug Silsbee". While not exclusive to winter, this book offers practical insights into integrating mindfulness and self-awareness into coaching practice. It’s an excellent resource for coaches aiming to help clients slow down, reflect, and navigate the darker months with greater self-compassion and balance. The themes discussed, like self-awareness and presence, resonate strongly with the slower rhythm of winter.
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4. Emphasizing Movement and Physical Well-Being
Exercise is an important part of any self-care routine, but during the winter, clients may find it more challenging to stay active. The cold weather, shorter days, and general lack of motivation can make it harder to keep up with physical activity, especially if they’ve set ambitious fitness goals at the start of the year.
 
Winter Coaching Tip:  
Promote outdoor time (even when cold). Exposure to natural light, even in winter, is important for mental health. Encourage clients to get outside for brief walks or activities in daylight hours to combat the effects of seasonal darkness. Just 20 minutes of natural sunlight can make a significant difference.
Suggest that they experiment with winter-friendly outdoor activities, such as winter walking, skiing, or ice skating, to stay active while embracing the season.
Also encourage clients to explore indoor activities like yoga, pilates, or home workouts.
Remind clients that staying consistent with movement doesn’t require perfection; it’s about making physical activity an enjoyable part of their routine, even if it's just for short periods.

5. Building Resilience to Navigate Winter Challenges
Coaching in the winter months presents unique challenges, from fluctuating weather to potential emotional ups and downs. But it also offers an opportunity to guide clients through a reflective, nurturing period that helps build long-term resilience. By adapting your coaching strategies to address the emotional and physical effects of winter, you can support your clients in maintaining motivation, setting achievable goals, and prioritizing self-care. With the right resources and tools, you’ll empower your clients to embrace the winter months as a time of rest, reflection, and sustainable growth.
 
Winter Coaching Tip:
Support your clients in establishing routines that balance productivity with rest. Clients may feel a lack of motivation or energy during winter. Encourage them to focus on small, manageable actions. For example, instead of setting a huge fitness goal, help them commit to a daily 15-minute walk or a weekly yoga practice. This can help build momentum without overwhelming them.

Encourage them to be flexible with their schedules and adjust goals based on how they feel. Acknowledge the seasonal limitations and help clients see this as an opportunity to cultivate more sustainable habits that they can carry into the spring. Offer consistent support and positive reinforcement to remind clients that they are capable of navigating challenges and making gradual progress.
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Guide Your Clients Through This Challenging Season and Into a Successful Year Ahead!
Winter is a time of year when clients often feel the weight of their New Year’s goals more acutely, especially if they haven’t yet gained the momentum they expected. By acknowledging the unique challenges of the season (decreased motivation, emotional ups and downs, and the pressure of big resolutions), coaches can help clients reset, adjust, and stay on track without overwhelming themselves.

Through thoughtful goal-setting, emotional support, realistic expectations, and a focus on self-care, coaches can guide their clients through the winter months with ease and intention. By embracing the slower pace of winter and helping clients build habits that are both sustainable and adaptable, you can set them up for success, not just for the season, but for the year ahead.

Claudia is an NBC-HWC Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach, the owner of Vibrant Health by Claudia LLC  and Virtual Health Coaches LLC. She studied Health and Wellness Coaching at the Institute for Integrative Nutrition where she also completed courses in Gut Health, Hormone Health, and Advanced Coaching. She is a Havening TechniquesⓇ Certified Practitioner and certified 21-Day Sugar Detox Coach as well as a co-author of three Amazon Bestsellers “The Ultimate Guide to Creating Your Soul Aligned Business”,  “The Ultimate Guide to Becoming a Successful Soul Professional” and “The Ultimate Guide To Leaving Your Legacy.”

To schedule a time for a free information call click here or join her Vibrant Health Power Community - a free Facebook Group - here. 
]]><![CDATA[Slowing Down to Gear Up: Reflecting on 2024 and Preparing Your Coaching Business for 2025]]>Tue, 17 Dec 2024 05:00:00 GMThttps://www.virtualhealthcoaches.com/coaches/slowing-down-to-gear-up-reflecting-on-2024-and-preparing-your-coaching-business-for-2025Written by: Claudia Haller NBC-HWC
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As the year winds down and the holiday season approaches, it’s natural for things to slow down a bit—especially in the coaching world. Clients may be distracted by festivities, travel, or end-of-year commitments. But rather than seeing this as a lull, this is the perfect opportunity to pause, reflect, and gear up for an even more impactful year ahead. ​

​When your business is on a roll, it can be difficult to accept a break. You just want to keep propelling forward, right?

But slowing down doesn’t mean stopping.

The slower season provides a natural pause that can be used to create even stronger momentum…and a stronger coaching business!

There is something so exciting and rejuvenating about turning over a new year. Think back to those first-day-of-school feelings you had as a child. You can channel that same kind of enthusiasm in your career! Whether you’re building a new business or continuing on a well-established path, a new year feels like a fresh start.

So, let’s use that!

Here’s how you can make the most of this slower season and prepare your business and personal growth for 2025.
 
Reflect on 2024: Celebrate Wins and Learn From Challenges.
With a new year just around the corner, your mind is likely focused on resolutions and goals for 2025. You’re ready to leave any past mistakes behind and move forward as your newer, better self. As a business owner, you are surely excited to jump right into your plans for the near future.

But before you dive into goal-setting for the new year, take time to look back on 2024. What have you accomplished in your coaching practice? Reflect on the growth you've seen in your clients and your own professional development. This is also a great moment to consider any challenges you faced. What didn’t go as planned? What did you learn from those experiences?
 
This reflection isn’t just about celebrating your wins (though that’s important!)—it’s also an opportunity to identify areas for growth. Maybe you want to refine your coaching techniques, or perhaps you’re looking to attract more clients or enhance your offerings. Whatever the case, this introspective process will help set a clear direction for 2025.
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Set Intentions for 2025: Make Your Goals Clear and Actionable
Now that you’ve reflected on the past year, it’s time to set your intentions for the year ahead. Think about both your personal growth and the evolution of your coaching business. 
 
Ask yourself…

Personal Growth: What new skills or certifications do you want to pursue? Look into this now while you have the time and focus. Don’t wait until later in the year, when you are too busy dealing with what’s in front of you to think about starting something new.

How can you improve your work-life balance?  This is so important and something that can easily fall to the wayside. Talk to your family. Get their perspective on how well you are balancing your work and home life. Not only can you use this slower time to prioritize the important people in your life, but you can spend some time planning how you will carry this balance into the busier seasons. Pull out your calendar. Block off some time now to ensure you take that important family time later!

Business Growth: This is a great time to set up your plan for the upcoming year. You’ve looked back on your previous year; now you must decide what’s next? What is it that you most want to accomplish? Do you want to expand your coaching services, attract more clients, or update your coaching packages? 

Once you’ve considered where you’d like to go with your business, think about how you can get there. What tools or systems can you implement to streamline your processes and save time?

Be specific with your goals and create actionable steps for each. Break them down into smaller, achievable tasks to ensure you stay on track. Keep in mind, the more detailed your goals, the easier it will be to stay focused and make real progress.

Remember to make your goals SMART: specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-based (Learn more about SMART goals HERE).
 
Prepare Your Business for a Fresh Start: Organize, Streamline, and Refresh
The quieter holiday season is a perfect time to get organized and prepare your business for the busy months ahead. If you’re like me, you probably need to be doing something to feel productive. Just because you’re not as busy on the client side of things does not mean you can’t take action in other areas of your business. And let’s face it, there is never a shortage of things that need to get done. Think about everything you would love to get to but never have the time. Well, this is the time.
Here are a few tasks you can tackle:
 
Update Client Materials: Refresh your coaching materials, handouts, and any online resources you provide. A well-organized, up-to-date library of content can save time when you're working with clients.

Refine Your Programs and Packages: This is a great opportunity to assess what’s working and what could be improved in your coaching programs. Do your current offerings align with your business goals for 2025? Could you bundle services or create new packages to meet your clients' needs?

Streamline Your Systems: Take a look at your business tools—whether it’s scheduling, client communication, or payment systems—and see where you can optimize. Look for ways to make your workflow more efficient so you can focus on what really matters: coaching.
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Prioritize Self-Care: Recharge for the New Year
Finally, don’t forget about yourself during this time. Business might be quieter, but life is still busy! Coaching is a rewarding but demanding profession, and it’s important to recharge so you can show up fully for your clients in 2025.

Believe it or not, studies show that there is a positive correlation between taking breaks and productivity. When we allow ourselves to rest and recharge, we increase our energy and cognitive function. We are more likely to work effectively and meet our goals.
Besides, your health and happiness are worth it.

So, whether it’s taking a break to reflect, focusing on a personal hobby, or simply slowing down to rest, make sure you’re giving yourself the space you need to come back stronger in the new year.
 
Join the Virtual Health Coaching Community
If you’re looking for extra support, accountability, and a community of like-minded coaches, I invite you to join the Virtual Health Coaching Community. This is a place where you can connect with other coaches, share insights, and access resources designed to help you grow and thrive in your coaching business.
 
As we prepare for the new year, there’s no better time to surround yourself with a supportive community that shares your passion for health coaching and personal growth. Whether you’re just starting out or are a seasoned coach looking for fresh ideas, the Virtual Health Coaching Community can help you achieve your goals and make 2025 your best year yet.
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Join us today and get ready to make 2025 your year of growth, clarity, and success.
 
Claudia is an NBC-HWC Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach, the owner of Vibrant Health by Claudia LLC  and Virtual Health Coaches LLC. She studied Health and Wellness Coaching at the Institute for Integrative Nutrition where she also completed courses in Gut Health, Hormone Health, and Advanced Coaching. She is a Havening TechniquesⓇ Certified Practitioner and certified 21-Day Sugar Detox Coach as well as a co-author of two Amazon Bestsellers “The Ultimate Guide to Creating Your Soul Aligned Business”,  “The Ultimate Guide to Becoming a Successful Soul Professional”, and “The Ultimate Guide To Leaving Your Legacy.”
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To schedule a time for a free information call click here or join her Vibrant Health Power Community - a free Facebook Group - here. 
 
Sources:
Boyd, Caitlin. “How Smart Goals Can Help You Achieve Better Health.” Virtual Health Coaches, www.virtualhealthcoaches.com/blog/how-smart-goals-can-help-you-achieve-better-health.

Brooks, Chad. “The Key to Increasing Productivity? Employee Breaks.” Business News Daily, 22 Aug. 2024, www.businessnewsdaily.com/6387-employee-breaks.html.
Haller, Claudia. “Beyond January 1st. Cracking the Code of New Year’s Resolutions: Small Changes for Big Impact.” Virtual Health Coaches, www.virtualhealthcoaches.com/blog/beyond-january-1st-cracking-the-code-of-new-years-resolutions-small-changes-for-big-impact-in-2024.
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