Day three of our journey into leadership coaching was nothing short of transformative. We delved into key topics, including the art of listening, the magic of evoking awareness through powerful questions, and the introduction of our learning circles—a space where we collaborate and grow together as aspiring coaches.

Breaking Down Active Listening: ICF Competency 6

One of the cornerstone lessons of the day was a deep dive into ICF Competency 6, which emphasizes active listening. This competency is vital for fully understanding a client's communication, whether verbal or non-verbal.

Our instructors guided us through the three levels of listening, each offering unique insights:

1. Internal Listening: Focused inwardly, where the listener hears primarily their own thoughts and reactions.

2. Focused Listening: Centered on the speaker, allowing the listener to truly engage with what is being communicated.

3. Global Listening: A broader perspective, incorporating not just words but emotions, energy, and the overall context of the conversation.

Understanding and practicing these levels helped us become more attuned to the nuances of client communication.

The Power of Powerful Questions

However, the standout moment for me came during the discussion on powerful questions—an essential tool in coaching and, frankly, in any meaningful relationship. The ability to ask powerful questions can be life-changing, fostering deeper understanding and self-awareness.

So, what exactly are powerful questions, and how do you ask them? At their core, powerful questions are short, succinct, and intentionally open-ended. They are designed to provoke thought without leading or judging. Here's a crucial tip we learned: avoid starting with "why." While "why" questions can be insightful, they carry the risk of being triggering, potentially opening old wounds ("Why do you feel this way?" might take someone back to a difficult memory). Instead, focus on "what" and "how," as they encourage exploration and forward movement. For example:

• "What is most important to you right now?"

• "How do you envision the next step?"

These types of questions help clients dig deep, reflect, and discover their own answers—empowering them in ways that simple advice cannot.

A Takeaway Worth Sharing

For me, this was the biggest takeaway: the sheer transformative power of asking the right question at the right time. As coaches, our role is not to provide answers but to guide clients in finding their own. Whether in coaching, leadership, or personal relationships, powerful questions foster connection, understanding, and growth.

I leave you with this thought: So, tell me—what do you want to explore?

Stay true.