Challenging Without Knowing Better: The Art of Opening Windows

The reflections in this post are drawn from Episode #26, Peter Hawkins: Ecology, Beauty & Human Consciousness, of The Edge of Coaching Podcast by George Warren . It’s a wonderfully rich conversation that delves deeply into the nuances of coaching, ecology, and the broader human experience. Well worth a listen.

Professor Peter Hawkins shares a powerful insight: clients want challenge, although they might resist it at first. One CEO he worked with, for example, said, “I need my coach to help me see what I’m not seeing.” This is true, the challenge we offer isn’t about knowing better—it’s about creating the space for the client to explore what’s hidden, what’s behind the window, without us imposing our own perspective.

The art of challenging, as Professor Hawkins suggests, lies in expanding the client’s perspective, rather than imposing our own conclusions. It’s not about providing quick fixes or answers, but about helping them discover new vistas they may have overlooked, at their own pace.

Hawkins also speaks of challenge as an act of service. Instead of seeking comfort or easy answers, what if coaching is about opening windows? It’s about inviting clients to face what they need to see, even if they’re not ready for it. It’s not about avoiding discomfort, but about providing the space to uncover deeper truths that can lead to transformation.

This only works when we’ve built genuine trust. Without that, challenge can feel like criticism rather than support. But when connection is present, challenge becomes an opportunity to serve the client—not as someone who knows better, but as someone who invites them to see the bigger picture.

Hawkins asks, How do we get on life’s agenda rather than our human-centric, individualistic agendas? Perhaps it’s by stepping aside and allowing life’s larger currents to guide the process. As coaches, we don’t need to have all the answers; we just need to hold space, help to open windows, and invite the challenge that life is asking for.

I am so often touched by the deep insights these thought leaders share. I love spending time with them and the wonderful podcast hosts, so thank you! I certainly recommend The Edge of Coaching Podcast, have a listen and see what you discover.