ACE Health Coach Certification Practice Test

What is a key characteristic of effective small goals?

1. Small goals must be meaningful to the client and be within immediate reach

2. Small goals should be set by the health coach and achievable within a short time

3. Small goals will be more effective if they are initially general and chosen by the client

4. Small goals must be relevant to the health coach's program and achieved within one year

The correct answer is: Small goals must be meaningful to the client and be within immediate reach

A key characteristic of effective small goals is that they must be meaningful to the client and be within immediate reach. This is essential because goals that resonate with the client's personal values and motivations are more likely to foster commitment and engagement. When a client sees direct relevance in their goals, it enhances their intrinsic motivation, making them more likely to take action and remain focused on achieving those goals. Additionally, setting goals that are within immediate reach ensures that the client experiences a sense of accomplishment quickly. This immediate feedback can boost confidence and encourage continued effort toward larger, longer-term objectives. Therefore, establishing small, meaningful goals aligns closely with the principles of motivation and behavioral change, serving as stepping stones on the client's journey toward overall health and wellness. While the other options touch on important aspects of goal setting, they do not capture the fundamental characteristic of meaning and relevance to the client, which is pivotal for successful goal attainment.