How A Professional Coach Deals With Cognitive Dissonance

What to do when your client’s actions don’t match their intentions

Photo by Thibault Penin on Unsplash.

Highlighting cognitive dissonance in a coaching context involves gently pointing out to the client where their beliefs, values, or behaviors are in conflict.

I first noticed this lack of awareness as a fitness & nutrition coach, where my clients said they wanted something but were matching their intentions with action. Basically, they wanted to lose weight and get toned but not track their protein or workout consistently. This process can be challenging but is crucial for fostering self-awareness and growth.

Here’s a step-by-step approach:

1. Understand the Client’s Values and Beliefs: Begin by gaining a deep understanding of your client’s core values, beliefs, and goals. This knowledge is crucial for identifying areas where cognitive dissonance might occur.
2. Observe and Listen Carefully: During your sessions, pay close attention to the client’s statements, behaviors, and decisions. Look for inconsistencies or contradictions between what they say and do.
3. Use Reflective Listening: Reflect back to the client what you’ve observed in a non-judgmental way. For example, “I noticed you mentioned X, but your actions seem to…