I remember growing up and my parents would spell things out to each other when they didn't want my siblings and I to understand what they were talking about. And now I find Alexandra and I doing the same thing.For example, on the weekend we were planning out our day and I asked Alexandra if I should take Olivia and go for a s-k-i? And if we don't go to the hill I might suggest that we all go for a s-w-i-m.Because the thing is as soon as you mention anything along the lines of going skiing or to the pool you've basically promised them to go and do that activity. And if you don't deliver tears ensue. Usually on my part first and the kids follow suit shortly after.But the whole point of this is that what and how you say something matters. The same applies to coaching as well.Let's take a moment to look at what you say and how to say it when coaching.What You SayHave you ever travelled to a foreign country and there is a North American tourist trying to communicate to someone in English? The North American is typically looking for directions and the local person doesn't speak English. Instead of looking for someone to translate, or using hand gestures or a different approach, the tourist simply speaks louder and slower.[caption id="attachment_5441" align="aligncenter" width="300"] Tourists sometimes think speaking louder and more slowly leads to comprehension.It's as though the breakdown in communication is a result of a hearing difficulty or auditory processing.We've all seen and been embarrassed by one of our own countrymen, or relatives, acting in this way.Coaching is similar.When we are looking to convey feedback to a client it makes no sense to speak Greek to an English speaker. Or in the case of anatomy,...