Health coaching is no longer optional; it’s essential
Health coaching is a well-established practice for any employee well-being solution, and for good reason. For employees who want to improve their health, a coach's guidance can make the difference between thinking about making a change and putting those thoughts into action. Now, amid a pandemic that has brought personal health to the top of everyone’s minds, health coaching has become an essential benefit.
For example, 62% of Americans have adopted healthy lifestyle changes since the pandemic started. In addition, people who reported exercising 1-2 times per week before the pandemic have increased their exercise regimen by 88%. Employees are ready to change their lifestyle and health behaviors, and the presence of a coach can provide direction for their lifestyle change efforts. Whether that means helping them find ways to exercise more, providing the motivation to finally quit tobacco, offering resources to improve heart health, or encouraging them to eat better, a skilled coach can give them what’s right for them.
There’s more to coaching than merely telling people to adopt healthier habits. Research suggests, not surprisingly, that genuine engagement in the change process requires regular, daily involvement throughout the year. At Alyfe, we talk about the importance of coaching with individuals rather than coaching to them. We think of it as the difference between a lecture and a conversation and in terms of helping people begin doing things they are “ready” (i.e., motivated) to do, however small, and self-rewarding themselves every step of the way.
Our coaches take the time to understand an individual’s starting point and their goals, as well as the obstacles that may slow them down. Everyone will progress at different rates based on their level of motivation and abilities, as well as barriers they need to overcome. For some people, running for 30 minutes, three times a week might be a reasonable goal. For others, just scheduling another coaching session is a win. The key is to get started, keep moving daily towards your goal and feel good about your progress.
Our personalized approach has taken on amplified importance in a world of Zoom meetings and virtual happy hours. People are eager to make real human connections again. That’s why a combination of virtual coaching tools, supported by a human coach are so important. In this era of social distancing, we are even seeing a growing demand for safe, in-person coaching sessions.
Putting participants’ personal objectives first and giving them choice is crucial to engagement and driving real change. What has become clear is that coaching is more than just an option – it is truly essential.
“Discovering your “y” is a powerful tool for successful behavior change and well-being. Understanding your motivation not only helps you think about changes you can make to improve your health and well-being, but also focus your energy on that change. ”