Can you share your process for helping clients set meaningful, achievable goals that align with their core values and vision for their life?

To help clients set meaningful, achievable goals, I begin by diving deep into their core values and long-term vision for their life. For example, if a client values personal growth and freedom, we would explore how those values show up in their goals. I ask questions like, “What does a fulfilling life look like for you?” and “What impact do you want to have in the world?” Once we clarify their values and vision, we translate that into specific, actionable goals. For instance, if their vision is to live a more balanced life while growing in their career, a goal might be to establish a healthy work-life balance by setting boundaries or taking on a leadership role.

Next, we break down those larger goals into smaller, manageable steps. For example, if the goal is to lead a team, we might start with developing leadership skills, seeking mentorship, or taking on smaller projects to build experience. We ensure each goal is SMART—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound—so clients can track progress. I also emphasize the importance of staying connected to their "why," which helps maintain motivation. Throughout the process, we check in regularly, celebrate milestones, and adjust goals as needed to stay aligned with their values and vision, ensuring they are always moving toward a life that feels authentic and fulfilling.

The first step usually is to inquire about why the goal is meaningful to them and ensure that it is truly their goal, not one they have taken on from someone else (e.g., spouse, family, society).A possible outcome of this step is that they either strengthen the importance of the goal and experience a deeper connection and motivation, or they change the goal to something that is genuinely meaningful to them.

Next, we assess if the goal is "ecological" for them, meaning—does it fit into their life in a healthy way? 

Then I usually invite clients to envision the completed goal in detail, to see if they like the end result and to feel what it’s like to achieve the goal. If they feel positive, I then invite them to create a plan; if not, we explore whatever comes up (often fears, doubts about their ability to achieve it, or other emotional obstacles to address).

Finally, I support my clients in creating a plan with a timeline, milestones, steps, and habits within their control and explore how they will keep themselves accountable.

However, as each person is different, the process might vary from person to person.

Self-Leadership Coach

Elina Tiliba

Before working on goals with my client. 

I'm making sure that the client knows and understands his values - what is truly important for him in his life. 

After that, what are the principles and rules the client has in his daily life - what he is doing and what he isn't doing according to his values? 

Also, I like to explore the skills that already developed in the client's life and which skills there is a need to explore and develop.

When we have this information it's much easier to put authentic, real goals that a client would like to achieve. 

Most clients come to me with goals already in mind, but they’ve struggled to accomplish them on their own. My process as a coach starts with figuring out what’s holding them back. It’s often not the person themselves but rather the goal that might need some adjusting. Sometimes the goal is too big and overwhelming, so we need to break it down into smaller, more manageable steps. Other times, the goal isn’t quite exciting enough to ignite real motivation.

Once we’ve set up the goal for the best chance of success, the next step is understanding how the client personally achieves success. Everyone works differently, so I help them discover their strengths and what strategies work best for them. Once we have that clarity, we put it all together into an action plan that aligns with their core values and vision for their life.

From there, it’s all about refining the plan as we go, adjusting based on what works and what doesn’t, until we reach the goal. This approach ensures that the process is not only effective but also aligned with the client’s unique needs and aspirations.