- The Parliament Newsletter
- Posts
- The Parliament Vol. 2, No. 23
The Parliament Vol. 2, No. 23
What Would You Do Differently?
Thomas Greek
June 27, 2025
COACHING PROMPT OF THE WEEK
“What Would You Do Differently?”
This is a terrific coaching question to ask a team member after the conclusion of a project or initiative, whether or not you felt the outcome was successful. It’s also a great conversation starter during a performance review. The question is so powerful because it facilitates learning, accountability, and proactive change.
It’s important to ask this question with as little judgement as possible, simply letting the question prompt your team member to consider alternative approaches. It’s equally important not to let this question become about focusing on the negative or inviting self-doubt – keeping an eye on what they might do even better in the future.
When used thoughtfully and with a supportive coaching mindset, it can unlock significant insights and drive meaningful progress for the team member.
Here are a few other questions you might ask along the way:
What surprised you about how the situation turned out?
If you encountered this situation again, what would you keep the same about your approach?
What options do you have for action?
Remember that coaching isn’t telling! Coaching is about staying curious and making space for those in our care to become confident authors of their own stories.
Early in my leadership career, I would fill my calendar to the brim.
Endless meetings.
Often no lunch or breaks.
Plus overtime.
It was this weird badge of honor for me. A tangible way that I could prove to my own leadership that I was worth what they were paying me. Having empty space on my schedule almost made me feel guilty. I told myself this story in my mind that getting ahead meant I needed to put in more hours. Leaving early or coming in late or taking too much time off might have sent the wrong message, I feared.
Like it does for so many, keeping that pace left me feeling burnt out. And keeping that pace also meant that other areas of my life suffered.
These days I find that I am a better version of myself when I'm more intentional about leaving empty space. I show up as a better strategist, creative agent, and partner to my clients when I leave room in my week to rest, think, and dream. I also show up better for my family and friends.
I know it seems counterintuitive at first, but you might be amazed at what happens when you leave a little extra room in your day and start wearing intentionality as a badge of honor, rather than busy-ness.
Want to sharpen your coaching skills, join us in the Leaders as Coaches Online program and watch your team – and your leadership – transform. www.ThomasGreekCoaching.com
Want leadership & coaching tips?!
Check out our YouTube channel, and while you’re there, be sure to subscribe!
John Kennedy said, “The only reason to give a speech is to change the world.”
I give a lot of speeches, and I love the opportunity to play the role of storyteller. But I see storytelling and speeches as a means to an end. I agree with Kennedy that speeches should change the world – even if it’s just for the people in front of you.
For me, my talks are a call to action – to be more curious, to take better care of ourselves, and to make an impact on the people who matter most to us.
A lot of you are in a position to give a speech, be a storyteller, and make an impact. Your words have the potential to make a difference, and it’s an opportunity to wield that power with purpose and a desire to create positive change.
What can your words do to change the world?
Thanks and Be Well!
For a limited time, I’m offering a complimentary lesson -
Check it out below!
