During a session, a client struggles to meet their nutrition goals while dining out with colleagues. The coach should focus on:

Focusing on what the client values in the situation is the most effective approach because it allows the coach to understand the client’s personal motivations and the importance they place on social interactions, such as dining out with colleagues. This exploration can reveal the underlying reasons why the client finds it challenging to meet their nutrition goals in these social settings.

By identifying the client's values, the coach can help them develop strategies that align with those values, fostering a sense of ownership and empowerment in their goal-setting and decision-making processes. For instance, if the client values connection with colleagues or the enjoyment of social gatherings, the coach can guide them to find a balance between enjoying these experiences and making nutrition-conscious choices.

In contrast, building the client’s willpower may not directly address the complexities of social situations and can unintentionally lead to feelings of guilt or restriction. Listing reasons not to eat out could foster feelings of deprivation and conflict with the client’s social desires. Exploring the benefits of eating alone might be irrelevant in this context, as the client is specifically dealing with social dining and may not find value in eating alone. By concentrating on the client’s values, the coach can facilitate a more meaningful conversation that encourages sustainable behavior change.