Happiness as a Goal: Coach Nicole Lofton

We continue our Happiness Goals Countdown by helping you to find and set those goals that increase happiness, backed by research. We also talk to some of our coaches about how happiness and goal-setting play a part in the work they do with clients. Here, coach Nicole Lofton shares with us.

1. What priority is happiness as a goal for your clients?

I would say that happiness is top priority for my clients. Everyone wants to be happy, but sometimes people fail to see when they are not truly happy. Happiness is an inner experience and once it is established great things can happen. 

2. Where do you find real contentment comes from for your clients?

For my clients, I believe real contentment comes from trusting themselves and knowing to stay true to themselves and that they did what was in their hearts.

3. What kinds of goals lead to the greatest happiness?

Goals that make sense – meaning does the person have time right now to put towards the goal? Does the person have the resources, etc? Really planning and using S.M.A.R.T. goals is what is important. 

4. What kinds of goals lead to longer term happiness than other types of goals?

Goals that come from the heart and that stem from a passion inside. Sometimes clients set a goal, not because they want to do it, but because someone else wants them to do it.

5. What kinds of goals do clients feel will bring them happiness, but often fail to?

I find that usually financial and career goals are the ones that clients feel will bring happiness but fail to. Sometimes even weight loss goals can fail to bring happiness if the client does not have an understanding of self and the reason and motivation behind them wanting to lose weight. It is very important to be in tune with oneself.

6. How do you support a client in creating beneficial goals?

I first support a client by really making sure that the goals or goals that he or she wants to set are goals that they really want to accomplish. From there, I help them set S.M.A.R.T. goal. When it comes to goals, I really have my clients dig deep within and thoroughly think things through. 

7. Does achieving goals lead to greater happiness for your clients?

Most definitely!

8. How do you help your clients make progress towards their goals?

Well, I have my clients set deadlines and not just general deadlines. I also check in with them and also motivate and encourage them. I believe that everyone has a purpose and I am very passionate about that.

9. What blocks goal achievement?

• Fears,
• Set backs,
• Things in the past,
• Unforgiveness,
• Lack of finances,
• Lack of support,
• Low self-esteem.

I love working with clients that have those blocks because I firmly believe that pain has purpose!

10. What helps goal achievement?

• Consistency,
• Confidence,
• Support,
• Determination, 
• Perseverance,
• Being realistic,
• Prayer.

11. What do you think your clients need in order for you to support them in setting happiness goals for 2015?

A willingness to succeed,  a willingness to step outside of their comfort zone, a passion for their goals, and to trust that I have their best interest. As a coach, I am all about and for my clients! 

*****
Contact coach Nicole Lofton to fnd out how she can help you set and achieve S.M.A.R.T. goals. Join our Happiness Goals Countdown to get the latest science-backed data on the kinds of goals that lead to happiness, for a happier 2015!