Holding Space, Asking Better Questions

What’s the difference between asking a “stupid” question… and asking one that unlocks growth?

In a recent mentor coaching session, one coach-in-training said, “I want to stop asking stupid questions.”

Then he paused. He rephrased: “I want to hold silence more. Provide a vessel for the client to reflect and grow themselves.”

That shift—from fear to presence—is what this work is about

Another coach practiced creating awareness. They asked: "How do we know we’re making progress?", "What does clarity feel like?" They explored advice—good and bad—as a way to awaken choice.

Some coaches leaned into silence.

Others used gesture.

One offered a warm, curious opening.

All of them, over weeks of practice, got tighter. More focused. More present.

They weren’t perfect. They were real. And they created space where learning could unfold

What question have you recently asked that made the room go still?