WHY ARE YOU NOT CHANGING?

Why? Why not.

The question "why" tends to be avoided in coaching. We'd prefer to ask open questions because it:

• Implies criticism
• Often provokes defensiveness and may make the patient feel they need to justify themselves
• Encourages analytical thinking which can be counterproductive in a coaching session

The following graphic details some ways in which the "how" and "why" questions can be rephrased.

Did you notice:?The final question "what are your options for moving forward" is an interesting one- remember, by asking "what are your options" you are already implying there?are?options- this can be really useful phrasing when someone is feeling stuck and unable to think of any options. By implying the pre-existence of options you can help trigger further insight.

Exercise:?

Review the "replacing how and why" graphic above and familiarise yourself with what the questions look like when those words are replaced.?In your next consultation, make an active effort to avoid using these questions. Try to focus on the quality of the responses you get instead, and notice what effect this different wording has on your patient. How does their body language change? Do they offer more information up to you?