How To Help Clients When Life Throws Them a Curveball #53

Nov 24, 2020

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Today's discussion focuses on the role of the trainer in helping a client through difficult times, and how this might play out in different scenarios.

The Episode: How To Help Clients When Life Throws Them a Curveball

All of us go through the ups and downs of life, no matter who we are, and your clients are no different. There will be times, as an online trainer, that you will be confronted with the difficulties that someone is experiencing, and the better you can manage these, the better for your business and for your clients.

In This Episode

Avoiding toxic positivity when dealing with clients' emotions [0:11:22]
How personal discomfort can lead to reacting in ways that are unhealthy [0:17:26]
Jonathan's own story of a downward spiral and finding his way out of it [0:22:08]
Getting to grips with our emotions and where they come from [0:27:12]
Finding a niche and catering directly to a specific need [0:31:00]
Holding space, providing what is asked for, and respecting a client's autonomy [0:33:29]
Clear boundaries and remembering the limits of your role [0:35:44]

“An emotion is not an objective experience. Things are not intrinsically good or bad.” — Jonathan Goodman

Less is Sometimes More

Positivity can help clients, but is not always the answer. By allowing negative emotions in ourselves and others, it becomes possible to move through them at a healthy and realistic speed. Most people do not want to, and should not want to, be driven out of a depression.

An Understanding of Emotions

A more intimate understanding of the roots of our feelings can make them more manageable. As trainers, pieces of knowledge around emotion are really helpful in our work with clients, and although clear lines around the services we provide are vital, an understanding of these factors can make a world of difference.

You Are Not A Therapist

A client is coming to you for the training that you offer. Keep in mind the limitations of your role will serve the relationship, and ultimately their success. Make sure to take the lead in setting the tone and boundaries for your interactions.

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