From Fixing to Partnering: My Own Journey with Curiosity
- Brian Duff
- Sep 19
- 2 min read
In my work as a coach, I'm often struck by a powerful and familiar impulse: the desire to step in and fix a problem. For a long time, it felt like an innate part of who I was. I'm a natural problem-solver, and for many of us, our careers and personal lives have been built on our ability to jump in, take charge, and make things right. It’s a very human, very natural response - a genuine wish to help and make things better.
But I’ve learned that the greatest impact doesn't come from having all the answers. It comes from trusting that my client already has them. This has been a journey for me, a process of unlearning that deeply ingrained urge to rescue.
Think about it: when we rush to "rescue" someone, we might be unintentionally communicating that they aren't fully capable of finding their own way. We become the hero of their story, swooping in with the perfect solution. While this can offer a moment of relief, it can also leave the other person feeling a little less empowered. It creates a dynamic where they look to us for answers, rather than trusting their own instincts.
This is why I'm embracing a different approach - the art of serving. A coach who steps into the conversation with curiosity, not answers. I don’t arrive with a blueprint for success, but with a deep belief in my client’s ability to navigate their own path. My role is to hold a space where they can explore, question, and ultimately, find their own powerful insights.
The focus shifts from "What's wrong here?" to "What's alive in this situation, and what do you want to create?" By resisting the urge to fix, I'm learning to honor my client's journey. I've seen firsthand how allowing them to sit with discomfort and confront their own uncertainties gives them the chance to discover their own incredible resilience.
This process isn't just for them; it’s a constant practice for me. Every time I choose curiosity over control, I reaffirm my commitment to partnership. It's a reminder that my value isn't in providing the solution, but in guiding others to discover the strength they already possess.
Ready to explore what's possible when you let go of the need to fix?
If you're at a personal or professional crossroads, I'm here to partner with you, not to fix you. Let's start a conversation about what you're ready to create. You can book a free consultation with me right here.
