What If You’re More Capable Than You Think?
Coaching Question of the Week
The Coaching Question:
“What if you’re more capable than you think?”
When to Use This Question
When a teacher or leader expresses self-doubt or believes improvement is beyond their reach.
When resistance to change stems from feeling incapable of executing new strategies.
When an educator is stuck in a fixed mindset about their ability to influence student learning or lead effectively.
The Problem This Question Aims to Solve
Low self-efficacy among educators and leaders can hinder growth and innovation. Many individuals internalize limiting beliefs about their abilities, which prevents them from engaging fully in professional learning or change efforts. This question challenges that assumption and invites a new perspective.
The Research Behind It:
Albert Bandura’s Self-Efficacy Theory (1997) – Bandura’s research shows that individuals who believe in their ability to improve are more likely to persist, take on challenges, and develop skills over time. This question taps into that belief-building process.
Carol Dweck’s Growth Mindset (2006) – Dweck’s work reveals that those with a growth mindset approach challenges as opportunities rather than threats. By questioning the assumption that ability is fixed, this question fosters growth-oriented thinking.
Cognitive Reframing (Beck, 1979) – Research on cognitive behavioral therapy suggests that shifting an individual’s perspective on their capabilities can reduce anxiety and increase motivation. This question encourages reframing a limiting belief into an empowering one.
Example Application in Coaching
Scenario: A teacher struggling with classroom management says, “I’m just not good at this. I’ve never been able to keep students engaged.”
Coach’s Response: “What if you’re more capable than you think?”
Teacher’s Reflection: “I guess I’d be more willing to try new techniques instead of assuming they won’t work.”
Next Steps: The coach could guide the teacher in identifying small, achievable steps that would demonstrate progress, reinforcing the belief that improvement is possible.
Additional Questions to Deepen the Conversation
“What would change if you believed you could get better at this?”
“What’s one skill you’ve improved over time that you once struggled with?”
“What would it look like to approach this challenge with curiosity instead of doubt?”
“What’s one small step you could take today to build confidence in this area?”
Final Reflection for Coaches and Leaders
As leaders and coaches, we often see potential in others before they see it in themselves. This question serves as an invitation to challenge self-limiting beliefs and open the door to meaningful growth. By integrating this question into coaching conversations, we help educators shift their internal narrative from “I can’t” to “I can improve.”