In our professional and personal circles, it is common for colleagues, friends or clients to come to us looking for quick solutions to their problems.
Often, they start their request with an innocent "do you have two minutes?" , which inevitably turns into a much longer discussion.
Rather than falling into the trap of answering their questions directly, let's offer them a more enriching alternative through the coaching approach.
Why choose the coaching approach?
When we choose to answer questions directly, we end up giving ready-made solutions. This may seem effective in the short term , but in the long term, it only reinforces the person's dependence on our help . They learn to rely on us rather than on their own abilities.
On the contrary, adopting a coaching posture implies believing in the other's ability to find their own answers. "I do not give solutions, not because of a lack of knowledge, but because I have a deep conviction in the skills of the other. I believe that each individual has the potential to solve their problems."
How does coaching develop autonomy?
By asking questions rather than giving answers, I encourage the other person to think and explore different paths. This method allows the person to develop their own thinking and decision-making skills.
“One size does not fit all” is a key principle here: what works for me won’t necessarily work for someone else.
As a coach, my role is to guide the person to generate their own solutions. This process not only strengthens autonomy, but also self-confidence. When confidence increases, dependence decreases and the individual becomes more autonomous.
Long term benefits
Adopting the coaching approach not only frees the other, but also myself. By making others more autonomous, I free myself from the time previously allocated to solving others' problems. This time can then be invested in achieving my own goals.
In short, the coaching approach is like a magic wand that not only transforms individuals into more autonomous and confident people, but also improves our own effectiveness. Rather than giving fish, let's learn how to fish. In this way, everyone progresses towards a better version of themselves.
To go further
Vocational training
The Coaching Approach to Management : Asking the Right Questions to Bring Out the Best in People
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