Many people come to coaching with the desire to understand their problem in depth. While this can feel logical, it is not always what creates movement.

The solution focused approach, developed by Steve de Shazer and Insoo Kim Berg, offers a different perspective. Instead of asking why something is happening, it shifts attention toward what is wanted and what is already working, even in small ways.

This approach builds on earlier systemic thinking and was influenced by the work of Milton Erickson, who demonstrated that change can happen through subtle shifts in language, attention, and expectation. It assumes that people do not need to fully understand the origin of a problem in order to move forward.

Typical questions in a solution focused conversation are simple but precise:
What do you want instead ?
When is this already happening, even a little …
What would be a small next step ?

These questions redirect attention. Instead of going deeper into the problem, they open a path toward action and possibility. Over time, this creates momentum.

Research and practice in brief therapy settings have shown that even small changes in focus can lead to meaningful results. The emphasis is not on ignoring reality, but on using attention in a way that is useful.

Clarity does not come from analysing everything that is not working. It comes from seeing where you want to go and taking the next step in that direction.