This coming Friday is September 11 and marks the anniversary of the awful September 11 attacks on the United States.

The day has added significance for me as at 2pm on that day in 2001 (9am New York time), I facilitated my first coaching assignment with a client.

The framework that I used in that session for goal setting and which I still use to help clients structure their goals and plans is theGROW model.

This was devised by Sir John Whitmore. When I teach people coaching skills, it is the model that I suggest that they use to structure their sessions.

It is a simple method for goal setting and problem solving.

G = Goal – in this section clients get clear on their goal, what they would specifically like to achieve and set a deadline.

R = Reality – this part of the model helps clients to make an honest assessment about their starting position and where they are at. They clarify obstacles that need to be overcome and resources available to help them achieve their goal.

O = Options–at this stage, clients are encouraged to consider possible options and alternative strategies to achieve their goal.

W = Will or Way forward – in the final section clients develop a plan and commit to action steps.

In addition to use by coaches, the GROW model is a highly effective framework for leaders and managers to use in structuring their development sessions with their teams.

Clients that I have taught to use the model report that clearer goals and action plans are devised which make review and follow up easy. The model helps to maximise the use of time and enables people to get to the core of issues fast.

It contributes to increased engagement, ownership of goals and plans and accountability for results by the team. Many clients have reported that they find the model a valuable tool to plan and prepare for customer, sales and team meetings.

This week why not take a few moments to reflect and think about a goal you would love to achieve and determine your first step to make your goal a reality.

This week’s quotation:

“Continuous effort – not strength or intelligence – is the key to unlocking our potential.” Winston Churchill

To arrange a free no obligation consultation, please contact Stephen Pauley via the contact form or by e mail: Stephen@befirstclass.co.uk