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Coaching Tip – The Power of Metaphors

By Pam Solberg-Tapper on August 11, 2010

Metaphors are powerful tools for your coach’s toolbox. A metaphor is defined as a figure of speech in which an implied comparison is made between two unlike things that actually have something in common. With few words, metaphors instantly convey a picture which captures the essence of what is being said.  They are particularly effective to shift a thought pattern or evoke more clarity in a situation.

Metaphors take a little practice and are really fun when you start using them. Just trust your gut and blurt them out. They don’t need to be profound or make sense – your client will naturally modify it to fit their situation.

I had a coaching client that was feeling stressed and overwhelmed. I asked, “Your life is like a piano, what tune are you playing now?” Immediately she focused and realized she had control over her situation.

Here are some examples of metaphors that you may want to try:

  • It sounds like you are stuck in the muck
  • You are focused like a laser
  • You’re jumping in the river and are going down the rapids
  • Why not soar like an eagle?
  • Your situation is like a marathon – take one step at a time
  • Sounds like you hit a bull’s eye

What metaphors do you find effective?

For more resources, see the Library topic Personal and Professional Coaching.

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Meet this Blog’s Co-Hosts

Chuck Appleby of Appleby & Associates is a leadership and organization development consultant with over 30 years of management, consulting, and coaching experience. [Read more ...]

Carter McNamara of Authenticity Consulting, LLC, has decades of experience providing group coaching and Action Learning around the world. [Read more ...]

Pam Solberg-Tapper is a highly experienced Professional Certified Coach. Her company, Coach for Success, designs, implements and coaches in a variety of leadership and executive programs.
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