It's incredibly easy for us as life coaches (or any other coach) to fall into the trap of assuming that what's crystal clear to us is equally clear to our clients. We operate from a rich foundation of coaching models, psychological insights, and countless client experiences. This unique perspective makes certain connections, potential blocks, or obvious next steps feel inherently intuitive to us. For example, you might immediately see how a client's limiting belief is holding them back, while to them, it's just "how things are." This is where the crucial disconnect often occurs; we project our seasoned understanding onto our clients, sometimes without even realizing it.
The actual risk of this assumption lies in the potential for miscommunication and, ultimately, hindering our clients' progress. When we approach a topic we deem "obvious," we might inadvertently skim over foundational principles, omit vital context, or use coaching jargon that makes perfect sense to us but is entirely new or abstract to our client. This can lead to confusion, frustration, or a sense of inadequacy for the client, while we might quietly wonder why they're not "getting it." Recognising this fundamental difference in perspectives is not just helpful; it's essential for truly impactful coaching.
To bridge this gap and maximize our effectiveness, we must consciously challenge our own assumptions and cultivate a mindset of genuine curiosity and a beginner's mind with every client. Instead of assuming they share our understanding, let's commit to meeting them exactly where they are. This means taking the time to fully explore their current reality, asking powerful, clarifying questions, and patiently breaking down concepts into relatable, digestible pieces. Use questions like "What's resonating with you here?", "Does that make sense?", or "Could you explain it back to me in your own words?" to gauge comprehension and identify areas needing clarification.
By actively acknowledging that our "obvious" is a product of our unique expertise, we empower our clients more fully and guide them towards their own breakthroughs with greater clarity and compassion.
Have a wonderful week.
Luc Dermul
CEO & Founder of The Coach Valley & Life Coach