As a coach, I’ve witnessed countless transformations. However, one approach consistently sparks a powerful shift: Appreciative Inquiry.
This isn’t traditional “fix what’s broken” coaching. Instead, Appreciative Inquiry focuses on your inherent strengths and past successes to build forward momentum.
That distinction becomes especially important when stress is involved.
When the nervous system remains activated for too long, perception narrows. Decision-making narrows as well. Under pressure, the brain scans for problems, gaps, and threats.
As a result, people begin defining themselves by what feels wrong instead of what is strong.
Appreciative Inquiry interrupts that pattern.
Why Appreciative Inquiry Coaching Is Different
Traditional coaching often centers on challenges and weaknesses. While addressing obstacles can be useful, a prolonged focus on problems can reinforce stress-based thinking.
In contrast, Appreciative Inquiry shifts attention to what is already working.
We explore your “high points” — the moments you thrived, the skills you used naturally, and the values that guided your best decisions.
This process does more than feel encouraging. It expands perception.
When attention shifts toward evidence of competence and capability, cognitive flexibility increases. Instead of scanning for threat, you begin scanning for possibility.
That shift creates energy. It restores perspective. It reconnects you with agency.
How Appreciative Inquiry Coaching Works
Watkins and Mohr (2001) describe Appreciative Inquiry as activating the generative images rooted in your most positive core in their work on Appreciative Inquiry theory.
In practice, that means we examine:
- When you felt most effective
- What strengths were engaged
- What conditions supported your success
- What values were present
Rather than asking, “How do we fix this?” we ask, “How do we create more of what works?”
Importantly, this is not about ignoring reality. Instead, it is about expanding perception so you can approach reality with clarity instead of contraction.
Why This Approach Gets Results Under Pressure
When someone is considering changing jobs, redefining success, or navigating uncertainty, stress often clouds the decision.
Stress narrows perception. It amplifies doubt. It highlights perceived deficiencies.
Appreciative Inquiry works because it restores access to remembered competence.
Confidence grows from evidence.
Motivation grows from alignment.
Action grows from clarity.
Instead of vague aspirations, you develop a grounded roadmap built on strengths and values. We translate insight into practical steps while maintaining momentum through reflection and adjustment.
A Different Starting Point
If you feel stuck, discouraged, or uncertain about your next move, you may not need more problem analysis.
You may need access to the part of you that already knows how to thrive.
When stress narrows perception, you see fewer options.
When perception expands, direction becomes clearer.
Appreciative Inquiry Coaching creates that expansion.
And from that expanded state, forward movement becomes intentional instead of reactive.
If you’re curious about the transformative potential of Appreciative Inquiry Coaching, don’t hesitate to get in touch with me to learn more and try out a sample session.
