Choosing the Right Coaching Goal: Performance, Learning, or Fulfillment?

"God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change,

Courage to change the things I can,

And wisdom to know the difference." — Reinhold Niebuhr

In previous articles, I’ve shared how our dreams are often what lead us to coaching. But how do we begin the journey toward those dreams?

The first coaching session—the Discovery Session—holds great importance in this regard. In this session, the coachee defines a coaching goal that aligns with the dream they wish to achieve. By doing so, they make a mutual commitment with their coach to work toward that goal over the course of the coaching process, which may span several months.

Coaching goals generally fall into one of three categories: performance, learning, or fulfillment. Performance goals, which are action-oriented, might include reading regularly, increasing income by a certain percentage, or finishing a report on time. Learning goals—also referred to as personal development goals—could involve improving leadership skills, becoming a more patient parent, or gaining more confidence in relationships. Fulfillment goals, on the other hand, are more about quality of life. These may include being more mindful, discovering one’s life purpose, or finding more joy in everyday activities. Compared to the others, fulfillment goals often require a deeper and longer coaching journey.

So, what else is important when setting a goal? First and foremost, the coachee should choose a goal that is truly meaningful to them—something they genuinely want to achieve and feel ready to commit to. The effectiveness of the coaching process depends heavily on this. Additionally, the goal should be realistic and attainable. This connects directly with Reinhold Niebuhr’s quote: Coaching goals should lie within the coachee’s circle of control, focusing on aspects of themselves they have the power to change.

Niebuhr’s words beautifully echo the philosophy we embrace throughout the coaching journey: Coaching encourages people to move forward with courage in the areas they can change, to make peace with what they cannot, and to reflect deeply in order to distinguish between the two.

If you were to embark on a coaching journey today, what would you seek coaching for? 🧚