🗣Build rapport by starting with casual, light conversations to create comfort. ❓Use open-ended questions to encourage deeper sharing and engagement. 💡Ask about their past successes or challenges to connect the discussion to familiar ground. 🤝Show empathy by actively listening and validating their feelings. 🎯Share examples or scenarios to inspire them to open up about their aspirations. 🔄Maintain a non-judgmental attitude, ensuring a safe space for honest dialogue.

Building trust is key when a client is hesitant to share their personal growth goals. Start by creating a safe, judgment-free space where they feel heard and valued. Instead of diving straight into deep questions, ease into the conversation with open-ended prompts like, “What’s something you’ve been curious to explore?” or “What’s a small win that recently made you proud?” Share a bit about your own journey or common challenges others have faced—this makes the conversation feel more human and relatable. Active listening is crucial: reflect back what they say, acknowledge their concerns, and show genuine interest. Most importantly, let them set the pace. Growth is personal, and trust takes time.

I would ask what they want more of in their daily life…joy, confidence, freedom. It takes the pressure off and makes growth feel natural, like small shifts that actually matter.

If I were in this situation, I’d start by acknowledging that it’s okay to feel hesitant and reassure them that growth is a personal journey. I’d ask open-ended questions like, “What’s something you’ve always wanted to achieve but never pursued?” or “What’s one area of your life you feel curious about exploring?” Creating a space where they feel seen and heard without pressure would be key. I’d also share a personal story to show vulnerability and demonstrate that opening up can lead to real breakthroughs. Building trust is always the first step to meaningful conversations.

Encourage them to change or redefine goals that do not fit their core values. For instance, if health is important but a job goal affects it, they should reconsider the job's value or find ways to include health in their work life. Help them create new goals using the SMART criteria to ensure they are meaningful and actionable. Encourage them to regularly reflect on their values and goals, as priorities may change over time. Regular check-ins can help keep everything aligned. Assist them in prioritizing actions according to the importance of each goal to their core values. This helps them focus on what matters most and reduces overwhelm.