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Whilst working with a client recently I was struck by his strong use of metaphor throughout our coaching sessions. They were always used with a degree of humour, which initially led me to overlook their importance. It was following a later session when my client had become stuck that I reflected on his words - the metaphors came flooding back to me!
My client's use of metaphor was always very strong, depicting perceived impending conflict. During our next session I sought my client's permission to explore his use of language in some detail. It soon became apparent that his use of metaphor mirrored how he viewed his professional life in particular situsations. It exposed a general lack of confidence, low self-esteem and the need for recognition.
During a crucial part of the coaching session a long silence ensued, which was shortly accompanied by a look of recognition as the pennies slowly dropped: my clie... Read more