Episode Summary
In this episode of Mondays with Mike, host Mike Staver addresses the common challenge of clients freezing when faced with tough decisions. Drawing on his coaching experience, Mike explains that the root cause is driven by fear. Usually, it’s the fear of making the wrong choice or of negatively impacting others.
He recommends that coaches begin by helping clients explore their concerns about potential negative outcomes, as well as their hope for positive results. Mike Staver stresses the importance of breaking the decision-making process into smaller, manageable steps. By setting deadlines, evaluating best- and worst-case scenarios, and taking incremental action, clients can gain momentum and reduce anxiety around making difficult decisions.
Key Takeaways
- Explore fear first: Start by asking clients what they are most concerned might happen if they make the wrong decision.
- Balance concerns with hopes: Also ask what their greatest hope is if the decision goes well.
- Break it down: Help clients take one small step toward the decision and consider incremental progress rather than all-or-nothing thinking.
- Set practical steps: Establish specific actions and deadlines, like evaluating outcomes by next Friday, to make the process less overwhelming.
Notable Quotes
- “What is your greatest concern about what will happen if you make this decision and it’s wrong?”
- “What is one small step you could take in the direction of that decision?”
- “So that you start breaking it down in small bite sized pieces for them.”
Do you have a burning question for Mike to answer on another episode of Mondays with Mike? Submit the form below!
