‘Create a particular environment and people will think for themselves. It is that simple.’ This statement encapsulates the underlying precepts of Nancy Kline’s Thinking Environment, elaborated in her marvellous book, Time to Think, which has become a classic of non-directive coaching. I make no apologies for beginning this review by saying I love this book. Nancy Kline’s work has made a deep impression on me. I am in awe of the powerful effect that concentrated, empathetic listening – what Kline terms ‘listening to ignite the human mind’ – can have in releasing ideas and insights from the person being listened to. As Kline says, ‘the quality of a person’s attention determines the quality of other people’s thinking’. It sounds beautifully simple. Read more
Tag Archive for active listening
Time to Think in a Fishbowl
If questioned, most of use would probably admit that we’d benefit from more time to think, without distractions, interruptions, assumptions. Nancy Kline’s ‘fishbowl’ session, organised by Meyler Campbell, was an astonishing demonstration of the power of her ‘time to think’ technique.[1].
Silence is Golden
As most people who know me would probably agree, I’m not exactly a shrinking violet. I’m very fond of a bit of vocal exercise. Embarking on my business coaching training programme with Meyler Campbell, this trait of talking a lot was a big source of anxiety for me. Kind friends have told me I’m a good listener and I’ve noticed that people tend to confide in me. But the concern loomed large: would I be able to shut up long enough to listen to anyone else? Read more
Jenny Rogers, Coaching Skills – Review
This is a practical and generally very encouraging guide to coaching. It provides specific tips, even down to lists of tried and tested questions to ask clients and lots of discussions of what actually happens in a coaching session. Well-integrated case studies bring the advice to life. Read more