Introduction to ‘Explain’ Cards

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After completing the Download cards, both users and coaches should prepare for the next set of cards, the ‘Explain’ cards. These cards are designed to offer deeper insights into the respondent’s problems and provide explanations and closure. It’s important for users and coaches to understand that the ‘Explain’ cards may introduce new frameworks or concepts that might be unfamiliar. To fully benefit from this stage and facilitate the “ah-ha” moment, it’s crucial to take the following steps:

1. Review and Familiarize:
   • Take time to review the ‘Explain’ cards and familiarize yourself with the frameworks they offer. Understand the key concepts and how they relate to the respondent’s challenges.
2. Seek Clarity:
   • If any aspect of the framework is unclear, don’t hesitate to seek clarification from the coach or refer to additional resources provided. Clear understanding is essential for meaningful comprehension.
3. Connect the Dots:
   • As a user, try to connect the frameworks presented in the ‘Explain’ cards with your own experiences and insights gained from the Download stage. Look for patterns or correlations that can deepen your understanding.
4. Openness to New Ideas:
   • Be open-minded and receptive to new ideas and perspectives introduced by the ‘Explain’ cards. Sometimes, a fresh approach can lead to breakthrough realizations and solutions.
5. Engage in Dialogue:
   • For coaches, encourage dialogue and discussion around the frameworks presented in the ‘Explain’ cards. Help users connect the dots and apply the concepts to their specific challenges.
6. Facilitate Comprehension:
   • Use coaching techniques to facilitate comprehension and encourage the “ah-ha” moment where the user gains a deeper understanding of their problems and potential solutions.
7. Closure and Next Steps:
   • The ‘Explain’ cards are designed to offer closure by providing clarity and insights. Encourage users to reflect on what they’ve learned and identify actionable next steps based on the new frameworks introduced.

The Explain Process

During the Explain phase, the coach explains to the respondent through various frameworks and knowledge meant to facilitate deeper reflection and discovery. Here are some examples of the prompt cards used during this phase:

The Role of the Coach

The “Explain” stage is a critical phase in the coaching process. During the “Explain” stage, the coach plays a pivotal role in facilitating this stage to ensure a productive and insightful discussion.

The coach should:

1. Summarizer:
   • Purpose: Summarize key points to consolidate the respondent’s understanding and ensure nothing important is missed.
   • Action: Conclude with a summary like, “To summarize, your main concerns are…”
2. Clarifier:
   • Purpose: Answer to the respondent’s challenge clearly and succinctly.
   • Action: Ask clarifying questions such as, “Did it explain the challenge you are facing?” or “Do you feel better after knowing…?”
3. Reflective Mirror:
   • Purpose: Reflect back what the respondent says to ensure accurate understanding and encourage deeper self-reflection.
   • Action: Paraphrase the respondent’s statements, e.g., “So, you’re saying that…”
4. Active Listener:
   • Purpose: The coach listens attentively to understand the respondent’s perspective and the nuances of their situation.
   • Action: Maintain eye contact, nod, and use verbal affirmations like “I see” or “Go on” to show engagement.
5. Non-Judgmental Supporter:
   • Purpose: Create a safe environment where the respondent feels comfortable sharing openly.
   • Action: Provide empathetic responses and avoid making judgments or offering solutions too soon.
6. Insight Generator:
   • Purpose: Help the respondent gain new insights and perspectives about their challenges.
   • Action: Pose insightful questions such as, “What do you think is the root cause of this issue?” or “How do you feel about this situation?”
7. Encourager of Self-Expression:
   • Purpose: Encourage the respondent to express their thoughts and feelings freely.
   • Action: Use prompts like, “Tell me more about how this affects you,” or “What emotions are you experiencing right now?”
8. Facilitator of Understanding:
   • Purpose: Assist the respondent in making connections between their thoughts, feelings, and actions.
   • Action: Guide them with questions such as, “How do you think this belief influences your behavior?” or “What patterns do you notice?”

By preparing for the ‘Explain’ cards in this manner, both users and coaches can maximize the effectiveness of this stage in the coaching process. It sets the stage for deeper understanding, meaningful insights, and progress towards resolving challenges.