I recently took a class where the instructor used an interesting technique to help reinforce each session’s key concepts.
He provided us with a distinction.
And in exploring the distinction, in recognizing what the concept was not, in addition to what it was, we gained clarity in our understanding of the day’s theme.
In wrestling with the difference, we came to value the similarity.
In considering the tension, we explored the nuance.
Distinctions can be so helpful in reinforcing and refining our understanding of a concept.
For example, if I ask you to consider the distinction between curiosity and apathy, you’re more likely to define curiosity around interest and engagement.
If I ask you to consider the distinction between curiosity and judgement, you’re more likely to define curiosity around openness and exploration.
Sometimes, when a client is leaning into a new behavior or mindset, it can be useful to explore what it’s not, or how they might know it’s not present.
When they want to be dedicated to a project, we might explore what it looks like to be dedicated, and what it looks like to be disengaged.
When they want to say YES to something, we also look at what they’ll say NO to.
When they avoid asking for help because it feels needy, we explore what it would look like to ask for help from a place of strength.
And so I ask you, dear reader…
What distinctions would be helpful for you to consider right now?
October 29, 2026
About the author:
Christina Von Stroh is a leadership coach who helps her clients become wildly successful by applying iterative software development practices to achieve their dreams. Want to work with Christina to help you iterate towards the person you’re becoming?
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