Coaching Core: The Power of Reframing - A New Lens for Your Clients

How to help clients shift their perspective by exploring new ways of seeing old problems

What is Reframing? Reframing is a coaching technique that shifts a client’s perspective by encouraging them to see a familiar situation in a new light. You can reframe using:

Metaphor / Analogy / Story: If you were standing on a balcony looking down at the stage, what might you see that would help your team? (Analogy). It sounds like she’s tilling the soil and planting seeds while he thinks it’s harvest time. (Metaphor) . Would it be helpful if I shared a story from my early career that has some similarities to this situation? (Story)

Multiple perspectives: help your client explore their topic by asking questions that stimulate multiple perspectives e.g. How would your 80 year old self advise you in this situation? What advice would your CEO give you?

Time stretching: help your client explore their topic by asking questions that help them stretch time e.g. One year from now, when people look back at this project, what will they say about its effects on the organization?

Reframing allows clients to move from “stuck” mindsets to places of possibility and clarity.

Why are Reframes Powerful? Reframes break down limiting beliefs by challenging the lens through which clients view their experiences. They empower clients to build resilience and adaptability, reinforcing the idea that perspective is flexible and self-driven.

Reframing as a Lasting Skill

Reframing isn’t just about addressing a single issue but a life skill that empowers clients to approach situations with curiosity and adaptability. I would encourage you to integrate reframing in your practice, building client confidence in exploring new perspectives on old problems.

How do you use reframing in a coaching conversation?