Which is better—working one-on-one with a happiness coach or participating in a group?

The correct answer is both are good. If you’re new to coaching and not clear about your goals, one-on-one coaching allows the coach to get to know you. Once that happens, a happiness coach can create a customized plan just for you. Your one-on-one time with your coach  helps them understand your needs, attitudes, and behaviors. This fosters a deep sense of trust and understanding–a necessary ingredient for success.

Individuals who work full-time, travel frequently, or have children at home often benefit from the flexibility provided by a one-on-one happiness coach.  This type of coaching also works best when someone is uncomfortable sharing because they feel their issue is too personal or shameful. Suppose you are struggling with addiction, abuse, a difficult marriage, or something similar. In that case, you might want to begin with one-on-one coaching and shift to a group after your primary concerns have been addressed.

Who Benefits From Group Coaching

For many, group coaching is the preferred option. The group setting often fosters a supportive environment where members hold each other accountable and provide mutual support. This collective support is a powerful motivator, creating an atmosphere of joy and appreciation that can lead to remarkable results. As group members become more comfortable with each other, the exchange of information and learning from each other’s experiences can lead to unexpected breakthroughs.

In one of my recent groups, Julie shared her concern about a woman who was smoking cigarettes in front of Julie’s bedroom window at the condo where they both lived. The smoke was wafting into Julie’s apartment and making her life miserable. Intimidated by the smoker, the only solution Julie came up with was keeping her windows closed. Upon hearing Julie’s story, the group began offering solutions. Julie took notes and found a solution. Management posted a no-smoking sign in the area outside of Julie’s window. And,  the smoker found a new location to partake in her habit. Solutions like this one are a common phenomenon in a group setting.

Topics a Happiness Coach Might Cover

Whether you work one-on-one or in a group, some topics a happiness coach will offer depend on the coach’s focus. A workplace might focus on communication, active listening, conflict resolution, resilience, problem-solving, time management, and increasing positivity. A coach mentoring adults might cover limiting beliefs, mindfulness, motivation, relationships, stress management, and overcoming challenges. A coach for youth might explore peer relationships and boosting self-esteem. Career development, drugs and alcohol, dating and sex and academic success might also be discussed.

If you’ve been struggling with issues at home or work, working with a happiness coach can provide relief and options you might not come up with alone. The best way to get started is with a free introductory phone call. Before you hire a coach, be sure you choose one who  will work with you at a price you can afford.

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Jan Fishler is a certified happiness coach and author. Her most recent books are Don’t Stop Now: Making the Most of the Rest of Your Life and 52 Ways to Be Happy: from the inside out. You can learn more at www.JanFishler.net.