Marcia Reynolds: Coaching the Problem
“Coaching should be a process of inquiry, not a series of questions. The intent of inquiry is not to find solutions but to provoke critical thinking about our own thoughts. Inquiry helps the people being coached discern gaps in their logic, evaluate their beliefs, and clarify fears and desires affecting their choices. Solutions emerge when thoughts are rearranged and expanded. Statements that prompt us to look inside our brains are reflective. They trigger reflection. Reflective statements include recapping, labeling, using metaphors, identifying key or conflicting points, and recognizing emotional shifts. Inquiry combines questions with reflective statements.”
Paul Lawrence: Keeping an Eye on the Goal
“Coaching is often depicted as a linear process through which goals are i) agreed at the beginning of an assignment ii) form the focus of coaching for several months thereafter iii) assessed at the end of the assignment. This perspective on goals doesn’t reflect the reality of today’s volatile, ambiguous and complex world. Some authors even suggest that focusing on goals in this way can get in the way of performance. (2) In this paper we report the outcome of research into the life of some real-life goals and consider the implications for best (coaching) practice.”
Cory Colton: Reframing the Circumstance
“There are many ways for us to help clients reframe their circumstances, but it is reliant on our coaching presence and how we are showing up in the moment. What do I really believe about the capabilities of the person in front of me? What am I aware of in myself that might add to or interfere with the coaching process? What are my own ego impulses and character structures, and how might they interfere with coaching presence? Am I truly present with the client, or am I listening simply to figure out the best next question? Sometimes what is needed is a simple reframing of our circumstances. The same goes for us as coaches. The quality of life is not determined by the circumstances…it is determined by our presence!”
