Need a Shift in Perspective?
Hi There,
A benefit derived from my time on retreat with the European C-IQ Collective was the assemblage of wisdom, brilliance and generosity that surrounded me. It was delightful to experience the tools other coaches have found useful. One in particular is resonating as an opportunity for a seismic shift in how I live my life.
An esteemed colleague introduced the concept of Thought Disruption. She then walked us through how a deceivingly simple set of questions ignited a shift in her client’s perspective. The series of prompts permitted her client to see a contentious situation from the absolute opposite perspective as she was believing to be true.
While reframing perspective is an important part of coaching, it was the statement structure of the prompt integral to the energy shift that got me thinking. I’ve seen this ‘bait and switch’ in different forms throughout the years. Although some iterations have been noteworthy, in this instance it landed with a transformational THUD!
What was the hocus pocus?
The deceivingly simple directive was to negate the client’s original statement of the challenge. This paradigm shift brought to mind the clever submission that when you point a finger at someone else, there are three fingers pointing back at you.
The tactic is reminiscent of Judith E. Glaser’s daring discovery question, “What if the opposite were true?” This variety of disruptive challenge is a thought extension of an exercise offered by Ian Sanderson in his workshop titled Introduction to Pattern-Disruption.
Ian explained that this type of shift allows us to widen our lenses and expand how we’re perceiving and relating to each other and everyone else!
Ironically, the word “disruption” has historically made me feel a bit uneasy. As a people pleaser by nature and nurture, the thought of intentionally interfering, disturbing or otherwise causing a commotion does not feel “polite” to me. And yet, each of these prompts can potentially lead to transformation.
So, I invite you to play with disruptive thinking. Grab a practice partner or your journal.
First, bring to mind a situation that is causing you stress, anxiety, frustration or distraction.
Then, describe concisely what’s stressful regarding a current situation.
Finally, try one of these disruptive challenges:
1. Negate your original statement. Start with “In reality and at this time”, (insert negation of your original statement).
2. Ask yourself, “What if the opposite were true?”
3. Consider the fingers pointing at you. What part do you own?
4. Contemplate how the story you’re telling is actually about you. What can you learn?
You may discover like I did that disruption plus the growth mindset equals a powerful combination for growth and connection.
Cheers!
-Deborah
Deborah Goldstein
DRIVEN Professionals / Forbes / Linkedin
info@drivenpros.com | LinkedIn
DRIVEN Professionals, 35 Adrienne Lane, Garrison, NY 10524