I was recently asked by a founder of a company if decision coaching constitutes a form of solution focused coaching. All I had to do was to explain the differences among them.

Influenced by the book ‘Decide’ written by David Wethey, I explained that solution focused coaching has to do with problem solving, and decision making with choosing. Problem solving is focused on the past, as it explores what did not work and the reason that caused the ‘problem’. It is bridging the gap between the way things are and the way they should be.
Decision making makes a broader activity. It is future oriented and involves making a choice between two or more options, evaluating these options and assessing any rewards and risks. It needs a creative approach, which requires that the main problem needs to have been solved first. It might also involve an opportunity. It needs resilience.

Steve Kneeland wrote that it’s never too late to change a decision and agrees with those who believe that changing your mind is not necessarily a sign of a weakness.

Decision coaching is all about supporting their client in forming, making and implementing their own decisions. These decisions are always in alignment with their goals, aspirations and values.