Coaching Beyond the Surface

Little t vs. Big T: Coaching Beyond the Surface

In coaching, clients often arrive with an immediate concern or issue—a “little t” topic. This is what currently has their focus and attention. For example:

Client: “I need to have a tough conversation with a direct report this week.”

At this stage, the coach listens carefully to understand the facts and context, engaging at Level 2 listening to capture relevant details, data, and the situation at hand.

However, coaching reaches its deepest value when we explore the “Big T”—the deeper, broader themes behind the immediate concern. At Level 3 listening, the coach supports the client in uncovering underlying patterns, beliefs, or recurring challenges that influence their behaviors.

Client: “I see now that I have a pattern of avoiding conflict because I want people to like me. It’s not just about a tough conversation this week.”

This is where transformation happens. By connecting the immediate topic to larger patterns, clients gain awareness of how their thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors shape their outcomes. With this insight, they can choose to shift their relationship to challenges, making lasting changes rather than addressing only surface-level issues.

Why This Matters

• Little t is important for immediate action and focus.

• Big T enables lasting insight, personal growth, and behavioral change.

• Coaching bridges both levels, ensuring clients navigate daily challenges while also evolving at a deeper level.
  
  

In essence, the power of coaching lies not just in solving today’s problem, but in helping clients uncover the deeper patterns that shape their lives.