What are the best ways to build self-confidence in clients after setbacks?

Differentiate between Setback and failure: Setbacks are temporary obstacles or challenges that hinder progress toward a specific goal. They may arise due to unforeseen circumstances, unexpected changes, or external factors beyond our control. On the other hand, failures represent the inability to achieve a desired outcome or goal despite efforts and intentions. These are often seen as learning opportunities, offering valuable personal and professional growth lessons.

One quick exercise after each interview is to reflect on yourself. Ask yourself "What you did great? / What you could have done better? / What would you do with this information?" If you engage with this reflection exercise after each interview you will have the chance to go through your emotions, attitudes and behaviours. And not only you will acknowldge your emotions and what has happened, you will also develop your interviewing skills. Best of the luck in your interviews:)

Acknowledging the disappointment rather than rushing through it is key. Clients need space to be with what is. One way to do this is labeling the emotion by using the feelings wheel. I have clients take a deep breath, then I guide them to the feelings wheel. We see which words resonate more than others. By labeling what's happening internally, they can acknowledge and better attune to their needs.

Helping clients rebuild self-confidence after setbacks isn’t just about pep talks. It's about a strategic, empathetic approach. Here's how to do it, with some personal insights: Acknowledge the Emotions: Encourage clients to express how they feel about the setback. It’s crucial to validate these emotions before moving forward. I've seen clients make breakthroughs simply by having their feelings acknowledged.

Acceptance is the first step. After a setback or disappointment, a coach needs to hold space for the feelings involved. Emotions need to be felt in order to be processed, and this needs to happen before deriving measures or starting to reframe the client's negative experience.

Assess the Situation: Work together to objectively analyze what happened. As a coach, I’ve found that helping clients separate facts from their interpretation often reveals new perspectives and reduces the emotional burden.

I'm a big fan of the SMART framework. I also ask clients if their goal is motivating to them. A goal should be inspiring and energizing. If clients feel like they have to fight their way to results, they won't enjoy the process, and they'll be more likely to give up. I like the question, "From a scale of 1-10, how motivating or energizing is this goal?"

ake Action: Encourage them to take proactive steps toward their goals. This action-oriented approach shifts focus from dwelling on the setback to moving forward. In my experience, action breeds confidence.

Gratitude is a powerful practice for self care! Here are 4 steps for an effective gratitude practice. (1) First, pick ONE thing you’re grateful for - maybe it’s the weather or having a roof over your head or something else. (2) Second, break down why you’re grateful for this thing. Be super specific here and write it out. (3) Third, label the feeling that comes up for you. Is it joy? Excitement? Something else? (4) Lastly, ask yourself: “Where in my body do I feel this?” Sit with the feeling for a couple of minutes and let it sink in. The more you do this, the more powerful it is.

The set-back in an interviwe becomes a problem only if one puts too much weight in the situation. We sould always consider the fact that this was just one interview. And that's it. It does not change who we are and what we are capable of.

Building self-confidence requires three things: 1) positive mindset 2) the will to learn & improve and 3) take action to improve. So the best way to build self-confidence after a setback is to 1) see the setback as an opportunity, so that even if you lose, you don’t lose the lesson, 2) the will to seek feedback, challenge your own thinking and behavior, and 3) take action by making the necessary adjustments to improve.

Reframe Negative Thoughts: Work with clients to reframe negative thoughts into more positive and constructive perspectives. Help them see setbacks as learning opportunities rather than failures. Set Realistic Goals: Break down larger goals into smaller, achievable steps. Success in smaller tasks can contribute to a sense of accomplishment and gradually rebuild confidence. Connect with Support Networks: Encourage clients to connect with supportive friends, family, or mentors. Positive social connections can provide emotional support and encouragement.

Celebrate Progress: Acknowledge every bit of progress they make. Celebrating these moments reinforces their belief in their abilities and the possibility of success. Remember, setbacks are not the end but rather pivotal points for growth and self-discovery. Guide your clients through these moments, helping them emerge stronger and more confident.

Steps to come out from setback situations... First and the most important is accept the failure/setback Assesment of the present situation Reanalyse the process Write down the corrective measures Implimentation.