This question is like an ice bath

There’s a coaching question I love to ask clients that feels like a cold shower or an ice bath. The question is: What do you hear yourself saying? 

Imagine your client is talking about something they’re struggling with. Talking and talking. And they stop. And you look at them with a kind expression on your face, and in a gentle tone, you softly say, “What do you hear yourself saying?” 

Their eyes widen. They lean back. They exhale. They’re quiet for a moment. And then they share a powerful insight into their situation. 

When you ask this question, you invite someone to step out of their drama, access their inner wisdom, and identify the most useful thing that could be expressed. 

‍Coaching is so much easier when you trust your client to find solutions to their problems. You just need to build trust and ask the right questions. 

When you ask the ice bath question, tone of voice is everything, and it won’t work unless there’s trust. Every time I offer this question, I witness a client’s transformation right in front of me. I challenge you to try using it this week!

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P.S. Freezing water is very, very good for you - I'm obsessed with cold showers since listening to this podcast.