The most effective thing I do as a coach is help people shift their perception. It’s what you don’t see or what you do see and are ignoring that can make the difference. A few great questions provide the opportunity for the change.
One of my coaches introduced me to eight simple questions that are quite powerful. If you will come apart from the hubbub of the day, and ponder these questions, you can shift the perception of your current situation and create new outcomes. You will discover things that were there all along and clarify other things that were out of focus. Here goes!!
1. What is happening now?
Describe what you do see and understand about your current situation, problem, or circumstance. Writing this down or having someone ask you these questions will help.
2. What do I think about it?
What are your thoughts about what is happening? Again, stating these out loud or writing them down will enhance the process.
3. How do I feel about it?
Emotions are indicator lights about what is happening under the hood. Your feelings tell a story and are linked to your intuition. Take a little time to explore your inner reactions and feelings about what is going on.
4. How is it affecting me and those around me?
This is a question that will help you to see what you may have missed. This also will raise your accountability.
5. What am I learning through this?
What lessons are presented from the circumstance? Often we just try to get “through” issues, especially when they are unpleasant and uncomfortable. This question challenges you to not just get “through” it, but learn “from” it.
6. Ideally, what would I like to see happen?
This question begins to move you into action. It is the first proactive step. It is important to clearly and specifically idealize and visualize the best outcome.
7. What is a first step that I can take to move toward that ideal?
There is no commitment at this point, you are still just thinking. What is one clearly defined action that you can take that will break the inactivity and move you forward toward the ideal?
8. What do I need to take that step, and who can help me?
I enjoy asking these questions, first to myself, and then to all of those I have the blessing of coaching. The changes that result are transformational. Enjoy the change!
-Dave Beam
Dave Beam has been helping businesses for the last 25 years. He is owner and operator of a successful ActionCOACH Business Coaching franchise, and has a passion to assist business leaders create amazing outcomes. He has coached over 300 businesses and corporations over the last thirteen years.
You can learn more about Coach Dave Beam on his website:
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