In honour of International Day of Women and Girls in Science todays quote is from an individual describbed as the “queen of 19th-century science,”:

“Great discoveries generally lead to a variety of conclusions…” (Mary Somerville)

For me, coaching often is about discovery of possibilities for that individual. As coaches, we often find ourselves guiding clients through their own ‘aha’ moments, witnessing the spark of revelation and sometimes followed by attempts to rationalize or question a newfound insights.

Embracing the Variety of Conclusions:

The Richness of Discoveries:

Mary Somerville’s words remind us that every breakthrough is not a singular path but a gateway to a multitude of conclusions. It’s a recognition of the richness of discoveries and the potential for varied interpretations, inviting us and our clients to explore the vast landscape that opens up with each ‘aha’ moment.

That aha can fall in a range of impact it can be something that seem really ordinary and reveals a next step as something completly natural all the way through to one that hits like a tonne of bricks and momentarily feeling completly disorinatated. Apart from you may want to give a response like the latter one a moment to settle, I don’t think that one type of reaction to an insight is more importatn than another – its more about what new thought is going to have he biggest positive difference.

The ‘Yes, But…’ Syndrome:

Clients may experience a moment of clarity and insight, only to follow it up with a hesitant “yes, but…” This ‘yes, but…’ syndrome can be an indication that they are grappling with the abundance of possibilities and attempting to rationalize away the simplicity of their initial realization.

Navigating ‘Aha’ Moments as Coaches:

Creating a Safe Space:

Establishing a safe and non-judgmental space is crucial. Encourage clients to express their thoughts openly without fear of criticism. This creates an environment where they can explore the variety of conclusions that stem from their discoveries.

Unraveling ‘Yes, But…’:

When faced with a client’s ‘yes, but…’ comment, one option is to delve deeper. Explore the reasons behind their hesitations and the potential fears or uncertainties that might be surfacing is one avenue to take. At the other end of the scale is to keep the focus upon the simplicity before the conclusions. (As with all coaching conversations, we respond to what is said in that moment so it really does depend upon how the conversation evolves how I’d react to a yes but reaction.)

Clarifying the Simple Truth:

In some cases, the initial insight might be a simple truth that clients are instinctively rationalizing. Guide them to embrace the simplicity and recognize that not every revelation needs to be complicated. Sometimes, the most profound truths are elegantly straightforward.

Trusting the Process:

Building Confidence:

Help clients build confidence in their insights. Remind them that ‘aha’ moments are personal revelations, and it’s not at all uncommon to seek clarification. Reinforce the idea that their initial understanding is valid and worth exploring further.

Embracing Uncertainty as well as Possibilities:

Allowing clients to embraces uncertainty and the open-ended nature of discoveries and being OK with that is an option. It’s not at all uncommon for clients not to have considered that being uncertain in any moment is allowed! Trusting the process involves acknowledging that not all answers need to be immediate, and sometimes, the joy is in the ongoing exploration.

Conclusion:

In the dynamic landscape of coaching, ‘aha’ moments are not just moments of insight but gateways to exploration. Mary Somerville’s wisdom guides us to appreciate the variety of conclusions that follow great discoveries. As coaches, let’s navigate the ‘yes, but…’ moments with empathy, helping clients trust their insights and embrace the myriad possibilities that unfold. Happy International Day of Women and Girls in Science! May our coaching journeys be filled with the joy of discovery and the courage to explore the ever-expanding realms of knowledge.

About Jen Waller

Jen Waller is on a mission to support, nurture and encourage coaching skills and talents from non-coach to coach and beyond.

As an experienced coach and trainer Jen is happy to utilise all skills at her disposal to assist clients from getting out of their own way and making a difference in the world with their coaching. Find out more about the support Jen offers here.