After working with hundreds thousands of individuals over the last five years (wow- that’s crazy to type that) at my last job in order to orchestrate plans towards more health-focused behaviors, I’m now venturing into working with others on my own. My own business, per se.
I have found that going out on my own to help others change behaviors needs a title. Right now the University of South Dakota (USD) has contracted me as their (lead) Wellness Coach at their Wellness Center {link}. That’s my title but I have found that “wellness coach” can be confusing to people. And I understand that. There can also be misconceptions to the title. But the role of a wellness coach is to provide support, guidance, accountability, and insight to others reaching new health goals.
The goals can range from reducing percent of body fat, finding life balance in a busy schedule, overcoming stress, gaining clarity in occupational career goals, etc. I’ve worked with so many individuals that there are very few topics that I have not addressed with clients/individuals. However there are times when referrals are made to mental health professionals or etc, when needed. But I have found that many individuals are in need of guidance, accountability, and insight from someone who is experienced, trustworthy, and aware of their abilities and limitations (note- this is really key. Do your research and find out the experience and background of who you work with).
We all need support and guidance in making health changes, especially when it comes to our behavior, which, is usually the hardest to change and is the most important. As much as I help others, I need key individuals to help me too otherwise I become stagnant and uninspired and ineffective.
After less than 8 weeks at USD, I am working with individuals who desire to lose weight, learn how to better manage the stress of work/life/parent roles, reduce percentage of body fat, and seek additional ways to nutritionally fuel and nourish their bodies (and therefore, their families bodies) with delicious foods that don’t take a long time to prep or purchase. These are all different health goals and desires (and really, just a glimpse of examples) of how I’m helping others improve their health as their Wellness Coach.
Not only am I working with individuals at USD, but I have started serving as a Wellness Consultant to local businesses and providing health and wellness presentations, employee wellness initiatives, health and wellness programming and communication initiatives, along with one-on-one consultations to employees, at companies who desire a healthier workplace. Research shows that businesses who prioritize, support and encourage employee health and wellness experience higher morale and productivity, reduced sick days, and healthier and happier employees.
What areas in your life are you looking to gain more strides towards health?
Consider a Wellness Coach. Do your research and identify what would be a good fit for you. It may serve as a good starting place to identify next steps. And who knows, there’s a chance you make other gains/strides in other unexpected areas in your life too.
Until next time…
In health,
Laura