Working with Metaphors

What this episode covers

In this episode, I am talking about working with metaphors in coaching — one of the most powerful ways to deepen awareness in a session. Metaphors show up naturally in how clients speak. We look at how to notice metaphors that actually matter, how to stay with them in a way that supports the client’s thinking, and how to use them to create meaningful shifts without turning the session into something abstract or disconnected from the client’s goal. I talk about: How to recognize which metaphors are worth exploring What makes a metaphor “alive” and useful in the moment How to explore a metaphor through simple, clean questions without leading the client Ways to deepen the metaphor using sensory detail and embodiment How to create shifts inside the metaphor and then connect them back to real action And where coaches may take a less effective path. I also share real question examples that support the metaphor work in different ways. If you’re a coach who wants to work at more depth without adding unnecessary complexity, this episode will give you a practical way to start using metaphors more intentionally and more effectively. In the next episode, we’ll shift the angle a bit and talk about the conditions that actually make coaching effective. I’ll bring in both research and field experience to explore what really drives impact in coaching conversations.If you want to watch an interview with an experienced Clean Language coach and watch a coaching demo that only uses metaphors, we have one on our YouTube Channel. Here's the link: https://youtu.be/V-rf5oZtdcE?si=7JbzWVUw0wB7eons Let's connect!Connect with me on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/luba-diasamidze/) or send an email at [email protected] other free materials: Free Coaching Course for People Leaders:upthinkcoaching.podia.com/basic-coaching-skills-for-new-leaders Mock ICF Credentialing Exam (PCC, MCC) from UpThink Coaching:upthinkcoaching.podia.com/mock-icf-credentialing-exam-pcc-mcc PCC Marker Demo:upthinkcoaching.podia.com/pcc-marker-demo-session Next ICF-Accredited Coach Training Programs (for coaches who want to work at depth): ACC Path:https://upthinkcoaching.com/coach-training-development/become-a-coach/ PCC Path:https://upthinkcoaching.com/coach-training-development/the-path-to-excellence-for-certified-coaches/

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