A lovely colleague the other day described a technique she uses to encourage people to talk, to say what’s on their mind … especially when they’re struggling to find the right words.

She asks them to “think of a smile moment.”

Wonderful imagery, isn’t it.

Of course, context is everything, and sensitivity and empathy are required, but sometimes moving people into a moment where they can do something, rather than can’t, is useful – be it in coaching, mentoring, or leadership conversations.