It would be poor judgment for us to offer false assurances that the COVID-19 (also known as coronavirus) pandemic will be over soon. It could continue for some time – we simply don’t know. Either way, it is not a time to panic. It is a time to prepare. 

CARING FOR YOURSELF

The first thing you can do is to care for yourself. You can’t support your family, your loved ones, or your clients if you aren’t healthy. Find and follow a few trusted sources like the World Health Organization (WHO). Our ITN community is also a great resource as we have access to government leaders and top health experts who are sharing pivotal information with us regularly. We have and will continue to share that information in a timely manner. 

In addition, your coaching will be most valuable to your clients if you maintain a strong, confident presence. Focusing on the positive aspects of potentially being in isolation can be a very powerful tool. 

This could be a wonderful time to slow down and care for yourself in ways your normal busy schedule doesn’t allow. Get serious about your daily meditation practice, take the time to read that book you ordered two months ago that’s still in its Amazon packaging, or learn new ways to move the conversation with clients away from their stressors onto new and interesting ways to embrace their own health and well-being. Shifting the focus – and your client’s mindset – on how this developing situation can empower them, rather than disempower them, can help shift their perspective in a big way. 

No matter what self-care looks like to you, remember to practice the model of Transformational Nutrition to look after your physical, mental, and spiritual health all at the same time. All of these areas are critical for overall health – especially at a time like this.

CARING FOR YOUR BUSINESS AND YOUR CLIENTS

Social distancing is recommended by the CDC as one of the best ways to stop the spread of coronavirus. While this is far from an ideal scenario, you are prepared to handle your coaching business and clients and there are numerous digital resources that can help.  

TAKE YOUR BUSINESS ONLINE

Start by taking your business online, if it’s not already, and communicate with your clients that your coaching sessions will move to an online format, using tools like Zoom, for the foreseeable future. This allows you to work from the safety and comfort of your home while allowing your clients to have access to your professional advice and support without putting themselves at risk.

You can also offer video calls, phone sessions, or even text support. 

FOSTER A SAFE COMMUNITY

Another option is to consider changing your offerings to include online group coaching sessions so you can help more people and foster a safe community for your clients. People will want to stay connected in whatever way possible and you can offer them a supportive space with expert guidance.

BE A TRUSTED SOURCE

Now is also a wonderful time to focus your marketing efforts on promoting your online programs and products as well as building your social media communities so you can continue to be a trusted source during this trying time.

Most, if not all, of your clients, will be relieved that a trusted ally in their circle is keeping their doors, albeit virtual, open for them. 

BE FLEXIBLE

One last tip… be flexible with your coaching session outlines and don’t be surprised if the topics your clients want to address are unrelated to the goals they’re working through. Be kind, compassionate, and open to help them stay positive and process any emotions they’re experiencing.  

As the famous Mr. Rogers quote, famously attributed by his mother, reminds us in trying times such as these:  

“Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.”

As a modern-day coach, you are the helper, and by maintaining a strong presence, your coaching services and online acumen can be a powerful source of hope, optimism, and connection for your clients both near and far. 

In these uncertain times, know that the ITN community is strong and resilient. You’re an important member of our family, and together, we will brave these turbulent waters together.