My Top 3 Most Effective Self-Coaching Techniques

Do you need some self-coaching ideas? Try using one of these techniques to motivate and encourage yourself

The 4 Whys

This is a great coaching method to use when you encounter a problem or setback. It involves stating the problem then asking why several times in order to get to the root of the issue so you can correct it. In fact, in the Navy, we called a similar technique "root cause analysis." For example the 4 Whys might look like this for you:

Problem: I can't start my business

• Why? Because I don't have a website.
• Why? I don't know how to build a website.
• Why? I have never taken a course in web design.
• Why? I don't know where such a course is offered.

As you can see, this helps you establish the cause (a lack of knowledge) and come up with a plan to overcome it (take a web design class, of course!)  Of course, keep in mind that some problems require you to ask "why" more than 4-5 times. So you may may have to experiment with this technique before you get to the root of your problem.

Affirmations

Affirmations can be a useful self-coaching strategy if you struggle with negative thoughts about yourself. For example, you might regularly think things like :   

• I'm dumb
• I'm ugly
• I'm useless
• I'm a failure
• I'm worthless

These thoughts don't serve you. They are no helping you reach your goals and what's more, they're holding you back from stepping into your full potential. In order to overcome these thoughts, you need to replace them with positive affirmations. A few good ones to start with are:

• I can create what I want
• I am a beautiful masterpiece.
• My life has value and meaning
• I am worthy of love and respect
• My feelings matter

The nest time you hear a negative thought, try repeating a positive affirmation.

Reframe It

You can't always change a situation you find yourself in. But you can always change your perspective of that situation. For example, you might be in a difficult spot financially and unable to change it for one reason or another, 

But you can alter your though pattern. You might say, "I don't make enough money!" This thought creates stress and invites lack into your life. Instead, try reframing the situation by saying, "I make enough money to keep the lights on and I choose to embrace abundance!"

Coaching yourself can be easy once you know the techniques to use. At first, it may seem odd to practice these tips. But as you begin to rely on them more often, you'll open your mind...and your heart...to the beautiful truth of who you are.  

P.S. You don't need a website to start a business. All you need is a phone or a computer, an idea, and the courage to give it a go.