If you’re a coach on the journey to help others become their best selves, you might feel like you’re juggling flaming torches while riding a unicycle. But fear not! Today, we’re going to explore the second of three coaching techniques that will help you keep your balance without setting your patients (or yourself) on fire. Let’s look at three techniques that you can start using in your coaching sessions immediately: “Appreciative Inquiry”. Put the flaming torches down, and let’s get started!
Next, let’s explore appreciative inquiry. This technique flips the traditional problem-solving approach on its head. Instead of asking, “What’s wrong with your health?” try asking, “What’s going well?” or “When do you feel most energized?”
This method is all about celebrating strengths and successes. Imagine you’re detective John Luther, but instead of investigating crime scenes, you’re uncovering the hidden treasures of your patient’s lives. This technique can be particularly useful when your patients seem low in confidence, self-belief or they are thinking quite negatively about change. Ask them to share stories of when they felt their healthiest, happiest selves. You might hear about the time they conquered a 5K or even the moment they discovered that vegetables do taste delicious when they’re not boiled within an inch of their life!
The psychological theory behind this technique is rooted in positive psychology, which emphasises the importance of building on strengths rather than just fixing weaknesses. I’d recommend reading about the PERMA model of wellbeing by Martin Seligman and reading his books about positive psychology; Learned Optimism, Authentic Happiness, and Flourish. By focusing on what people do well, you empower them to take ownership of their health journey- isn’t that the essence of good, inspiring health coaching?