The Solution Focus Coaching approach sets aside the details of the problem, unless the client chooses to bring them into the conversation, and instead asks questions that support awareness of available resources and what is already working well for the client.
When we want to improve a situation, we can talk about the problem—what is not wanted—or we can talk about how we would like things to look in the future—what is wanted. We can resolve the issue much more quickly when we first notice and appreciate what is already working well.
The feedback I receive most often from clients about the impact of Brief Coaching is that “the problem did not come back”. This may be connected either to an actual change in behaviour or to a different choice in how the situation is perceived. Whatever the explanation, it is clear that the change appears to have been lasting, even though the coaching approach is simple and brief.
In a Brief Solution-Focused Coaching session, questions are designed to shift the client’s attention towards solutions.
