Effective communication is the cornerstone of successful health coaching, especially when working with younger generations like Millennials and Gen Z. The OARS technique—Open-ended questions, Affirmations, Reflective listening, and Summarizing—provides a structured yet flexible approach to engaging these patients.

Before diving into the OARS technique, it's essential to understand the unique characteristics and preferences of Millennials and Gen Z:

• Millennials (born 1981-1996): This generation values authenticity, feedback, and meaningful experiences. They are tech-savvy and appreciate a coaching approach that incorporates digital tools and flexible communication.

• Gen Z (born 1997-2012): As digital natives, Gen Z is accustomed to instant access to information and communication. They value diversity, inclusivity, and are highly socially conscious. Personalized and visually engaging content resonates well with them.
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OARS is a client-centered counseling technique derived from Motivational Interviewing. It involves:

• Open-ended questions: Questions that cannot be answered with a simple "yes" or "no" and encourage deeper discussion.

• Affirmations: Positive statements that recognize the patient’s strengths and efforts.

• Reflective listening: Rephrasing what the patient says to show understanding and empathy.

• Summarizing: Recapping the conversation to reinforce key points and ensure mutual understanding.

Here are full conversations incorporating all OARS steps for three health coaching topics: weight loss, stress management, and physical activity. Each topic includes examples for both Millennials and Gen Z to illustrate how the OARS technique can be tailored to different generations.

Topic 1: Weight Loss

Millennial Example

Health Coach: "What are some challenges you've faced in your weight loss journey?"

Patient: "My job demands long hours, and by the time I get home, I'm exhausted. I often end up ordering takeout."

Health Coach: "It sounds like your busy schedule makes it hard to find the time and energy for meal preparation. Can you tell me more about your typical day?"

Patient: "I usually leave for work around 8 AM and don't get back until 7 or 8 PM. After that, I just want to relax."

Health Coach: "I really admire how you're managing such a demanding schedule. It takes a lot of dedication to even think about healthy eating in that situation."

Patient: "Thanks. I try to be mindful, but it's hard to stay consistent."

Health Coach: "You feel that maintaining consistency is difficult due to your long hours. Have you found any strategies that help you during less busy periods?"

Patient: "Sometimes, I manage to prep meals on weekends, but it's not always possible."

Health Coach: "So, when you do have time, meal prepping seems to work for you. Maybe we can explore some quicker, healthier options that fit your schedule even on busy days."

Patient: "That would be great. I need something sustainable."

Health Coach: "To summarize, your hectic work schedule makes consistency tough, but meal prepping has been helpful when you have time. Let’s look into some quick, nutritious meals that require minimal prep. How does that sound?"

Patient: "That sounds perfect. I’m ready to give it a try."

Gen Z Example

Health Coach: "How do you feel about your current eating habits and their impact on your weight loss goals?"

Patient: "I try to eat healthy, but with all the conflicting information online, it's hard to know what’s right."

Health Coach: "It sounds like you’re feeling overwhelmed by the variety of advice you find online. Can you give me an example of conflicting information you've encountered?"

Patient: "One site says to go vegan, while another recommends high-protein diets. It’s confusing."

Health Coach: "It's impressive how you're actively seeking out information. It shows that you're committed to your health."

Patient: "Thanks. I just want to make the right choices."

Health Coach: "You want to ensure you're making the best decisions for your health. Have you identified any dietary changes that you feel comfortable trying?"

Patient: "I think I could handle a balanced approach, but I’m not sure where to start."

Health Coach: "A balanced approach sounds sensible. How about we start by incorporating more whole foods into your diet and see how that feels?"

Patient: "That sounds good. I can start with that."

Health Coach: "To summarize, you’re feeling confused by conflicting advice but are eager to find a balanced approach. We’ll begin with incorporating more whole foods into your diet and adjust as needed. Does that work for you?"

Patient: "Yes, that sounds like a solid plan."

Topic 2: Stress Management

Millennial Example

Health Coach: "What are some sources of stress in your life right now?"

Patient: "Work is a big one. It’s always so busy and I feel like I can never catch up."

Health Coach: "It sounds like your workload is overwhelming. How do you usually manage stress when it gets too much?"

Patient: "I try to unwind with some TV, but it doesn't always help."

Health Coach: "It's great that you're trying to find ways to relax after a long day. It shows that you’re taking steps to care for yourself."

Patient: "Thanks. I just wish I could find something more effective."

Health Coach: "You feel that your current methods aren’t enough to relieve your stress. Have you ever tried other techniques, like meditation or exercise?"

Patient: "I’ve thought about it, but I’m not sure where to start."

Health Coach: "Starting something new can be daunting. Maybe we could explore a simple meditation app or a short, daily exercise routine. What do you think?"

Patient: "I think I could try a meditation app. It sounds manageable."

Health Coach: "To summarize, your job is a major stress source, and while TV helps somewhat, it’s not enough. We’ll try incorporating a meditation app into your routine to see if it helps with your stress. How does that sound?"

Patient: "That sounds like a good start. I’m willing to give it a try."

Gen Z Example

Health Coach: "How do you usually deal with stress from school or social situations?"

Patient: "I spend a lot of time on social media, but sometimes it makes me feel worse."

Health Coach: "It sounds like social media is a double-edged sword for you. Can you tell me more about that?"

Patient: "Well, it can be fun, but I also compare myself to others and it makes me anxious."

Health Coach: "It's great that you’re aware of how social media affects you. That self-awareness is really important."

Patient: "Yeah, I guess. I just want to find better ways to handle stress."

Health Coach: "You’re looking for healthier ways to manage stress. Have you tried any techniques like journaling or physical activities?"

Patient: "I’ve thought about journaling, but I’m not sure how to start."

Health Coach: "Journaling can be a great way to manage stress. We can start with a simple approach, like writing down your thoughts for five minutes each day. How does that sound?"

Patient: "I can try that. Five minutes doesn’t seem too hard."

Health Coach: "To summarize, social media can be stressful and you want better ways to manage that. Let’s start with a daily five-minute journaling practice. Does that work for you?"

Patient: "Yes, that sounds good. I’ll give it a try."

Topic 3: Physical Activity

Millennial Example

Health Coach: "What’s your current exercise routine like?"

Patient: "I used to go to the gym regularly, but lately I’ve been too busy with work to keep it up."

Health Coach: "It sounds like your job is making it hard to stick to your gym routine. How do you feel about that?"

Patient: "I feel guilty because I know I should be more active."

Health Coach: "It's great that you’re aware of the importance of staying active. Recognizing that is the first step."

Patient: "Thanks. I just need to figure out how to fit it in."

Health Coach: "You’re looking for ways to fit exercise into your busy schedule. Have you considered shorter, more flexible workouts?"

Patient: "I’ve thought about it, but I’m not sure what kind of workouts would be best."

Health Coach: "Shorter workouts can be very effective. How about we start with some high-intensity interval training (HIIT) sessions that you can do in 20 minutes? Does that sound doable?"

Patient: "Yeah, I think I could manage 20 minutes a few times a week."

Health Coach: "To summarize, work has made it hard to stick to your gym routine, but you’re open to shorter workouts. Let’s try incorporating some HIIT sessions into your week. How does that sound?"

Patient: "That sounds like a great idea. I’ll try to fit those in."

Gen Z Example

Health Coach: "How do you usually stay active?"

Patient: "I like going for walks and playing sports with friends, but sometimes I get too busy with school."

Health Coach: "It sounds like you enjoy physical activities but struggle to find time because of school. Can you tell me more about your weekly schedule?"

Patient: "Most of my day is taken up by classes and homework, so I only have free time in the evenings."

Health Coach: "It's great that you’re trying to balance your schoolwork with staying active. It shows a lot of responsibility."

Patient: "Thanks. I just wish I could do more."

Health Coach: "You wish you could be more active despite your busy schedule. Have you thought about integrating short exercise breaks between your study sessions?"

Patient: "That might work. I’ve never tried it before."

Health Coach: "Short breaks can be really effective. How about starting with a 10-minute exercise break every hour or so? You could do some stretching, a quick walk, or even a few exercises at home."

Patient: "I think I can do that. It sounds manageable."

Health Coach: "To summarize, school keeps you busy, but you enjoy staying active. We’ll try adding 10-minute exercise breaks between study sessions to keep you moving. Does that sound good?"

Patient: "Yes, that sounds like a good plan. I’ll start doing that."

Hopefully these conversation examples give you a basic understanding of how some of these discussions can play out, but we know most of your patient conversations will be more in-depth and/or difficult. Here are a few basic communication tips to remember when working on behavior change with Millennials or Gen Z:

·      Millennials often juggle multiple responsibilities and appreciate discussions that acknowledge their complex lives.

·      Gen Z spends a significant amount of time on social media, so incorporating technology connects the conversation to their daily experiences and concerns.

·      Millennials value recognition of their efforts and achievements, especially when balancing various aspects of their lives.

·      Gen Z tends to be highly aware and conscientious about broader societal issues, including health and environmental sustainability.

·      Showing empathy and understanding of the patient's specific struggle, builds trust and rapport with Millennials

·      Reflective listening helps validate Gen Z's feelings and provides a safe space to discuss their concerns without judgment.

·      Summarizing not only reinforces key points but also provides a clear path forward, which Millennials appreciate.

·      Gen Z appreciates actionable steps and personalized advice, helping them take control of their health journey.

For Health Coaches who are not also part of the Millennial or Gen Z generation, here are a few additional tips to help you improve your communication with your younger patients:

1. Embrace Technology: Both Millennials and Gen Z are highly tech-savvy. Use digital tools like apps, video calls, and social media to communicate and engage with them. Incorporate technology into your coaching practice to stay relevant and accessible.
2. Be Authentic and Transparent: Younger generations value honesty and authenticity. Be genuine in your interactions and transparent about your methods and expectations.
3. Encourage Feedback: Create an environment where feedback is welcomed and valued. This not only helps you improve your coaching techniques but also makes younger patients feel heard and respected.
4. Be Inclusive and Culturally Aware: Recognize and respect the diverse backgrounds and perspectives of your younger patients. Show sensitivity to issues of inclusivity and cultural relevance.
5. Focus on Holistic Wellness: Millennials and Gen Z often view health as a holistic concept encompassing physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Address all aspects of wellness in your coaching.
6. Provide Clear and Actionable Steps: Both generations appreciate clarity and actionable advice. Break down your recommendations into manageable steps and provide practical guidance.

Mastering the OARS communication technique can significantly enhance your effectiveness as a Health Coach when working with Millennials and Gen Z. By asking open-ended questions, offering affirmations, practicing reflective listening, and summarizing key points, you can foster a supportive and engaging environment for younger patients. Remember, you are their partner in health, guiding them toward a healthier, more balanced life.

The National Society of Health Coaches