Art of the obvious

‘It’s about recognizing the spark of greatness even in moments of darkness – and nurturing it to light the way forward.’ (Dr Wayne Dyer)Coaching has been described as ‘the art of the obvious’ – helping clients recognise what is hidden in plain sight.

Coaches use various techniques to bring these insights to the surface such as asking thought-provoking questions, mirroring language and gestures, or engaging clients in physical experiments. A shift in awareness often provides the focus, energy and momentum needed for meaningful change.

Coaching in action: Lisa’s fear of presentations

Lisa, a new manager, says she feels scared of giving presentations. She feels sick and tries to avoid them. Someone may pose direct questions like:

• Why are you scared?
• What are you scared might happen?

While these could be useful, deeper exploration may be needed. Different coaching approaches offer varied pathways for insight and growth. Here are some examples, drawing on my own studies, training and practice in diverse psychological fields:

Solutions-focused

• Questions: ‘How do you want to feel when presenting?’ ‘What would you be doing if you weren’t scared?'
• Goal: Shifts focus from the problem to a desired future state.

Strengths-based

• Questions: ‘When are you at your best?’ ‘What talents can you draw on for your next presentation?’
• Goal: Helps clients recognise and leverage their strengths.

Cognitive

• Questions: ‘What do you say to yourself before presenting?’ ‘How do your assumptions shape your feelings about the audience’s response?’
• Goal: Identifies thought patterns and beliefs that may be fuelling anxiety.

Psychodynamic

• Questions: ‘When did you first feel this scared?’ ‘Who in your past does this situation remind you of?’
• Goal: Explores past experiences that influence present fears.

Neurolinguistic

• Questions: ‘Scared… scarred… what scars do you carry that shape this fear?’ ‘Presenting… presence… how do you presence yourself in the room?’
• Goal: Encourages clients to explore alternative perspectives through language play.

Gestalt-somatic

• Questions: ‘Where do you feel this fear in your body?’ ‘If you could speak to it, what would you say?’
• Goal: Uses physical awareness and imagination to shift experience.

Existential

• Questions: ‘How does overcoming this fear align with your life purpose?’ ‘What values does this anxiety reveal?’
• Goal: Encourages clients to connect with deeper meaning and personal agency.

Spiritual

• Questions: ‘How does your faith influence your sense-making in this situation?’ ‘What spiritual resources can support you?’
• Goal: Draws on spiritual beliefs for guidance and resilience.

Critical

• Questions: ‘How does your cultural background shape your expectations?’ ‘What does your anxiety say about your workplace environment?’
• Goal: Examines broader social and systemic influences on personal experiences.

Behavioural

• Questions: ‘Would you like to practice relaxation techniques?’ ‘Shall we rehearse some different postures and tones of voice?’
• Goal: Focuses on practical skills to boost confidence and performance.

Conclusion

Different coaching approaches provide unique lenses through which clients can explore and address their challenges. The key is finding the method that best aligns with the needs and interests of the client, and unlocks awareness, confidence and action for meaningful growth.

Would you be interested to work with a coach? Get in touch!