It is easy to rely on what we know or on our competence. But there are times when they don’t help and prevent us from seeing the other.

This is especially true when we seek to help others, for example through coaching.

What we know is linked to what we believe, what we learned, and what we experienced. It is by definition different than what someone else believes, learned, and experienced.

Understanding the problem someone else experiences and tries to solve means becoming able to see their quest through their eyes. The process thus is best supported by finding ways to let go of one’s knowledge. By being open to seeing the situation from the other person’s perspective.

It’s an exploration that takes time.

Stepping into this exploration is a way to build new knowledge and do so together. Jumping to conclusions are the moments where our knowledge kicked in. Taking the time to do so builds relationships.