In our last blog about ‘threshold concepts’, we talked about how the first big threshold concept for someone learning Solutions Focus is simply this: the problem and the solution may have no logical connection. A ‘threshold concept’ being a pivotal idea that transforms understanding about a topic and can be hard to embrace – here’s another one that might surprise you:
The most effective changes happen in the interactional world, not only inside people’s heads.
When faced with challenges or desires, our natural inclination often involves a deep dive into our mental realm: analysing, diagnosing and reflecting. Plus lots of supposition when it comes to the thoughts and feelings we ascribe to others.
Beyond those mental processes, we want to see change in the form of action in the interactional space between you and the world around you.
Take this example: You want to start exercising but struggle to get going. One approach is to spend time wondering whether (or why) you’re lazy or under-motivated. You could recall past failures, ascribe personality traits, or even blame childhood experiences. But this mental exploration isn’t guaranteed to lead to movement.
Instead, what if you placed your running shoes by the door or set your workout clothes out the night before? This simple action in the exterior world shifts the focus from the unproductive labyrinth of ‘Why?’ or ‘Why not?’ to the action-based territory of ‘What next?’
Or consider a workplace scenario. A team member is consistently late with reports. Instead of labelling them ‘disorganised’ and trying to unpack their mindset, you might focus on adjusting the interactional set-up: creating shared deadlines on a visible calendar, sending reminder emails, or beginning conversations that highlight the positive impacts of timeliness.
These tweaks often lead to faster, more effective results than dissecting the reasons behind a colleague’s tardiness.
Crossing this threshold – from introspection to action – requires overcoming the urge to solve issues mentally before acting. This doesn’t mean thought is useless, but it redirects our attention towards a more practical arena, with a question: ‘What small, tangible step can we take right now?’
Shifting focus from mental processes to interactions is counter-intuitive, especially in a culture that often equates understanding a problem with solving it. But here’s the magic: you don’t have to fix anything inside your head for change to happen. You simply need to interact differently.
So, is it worth crossing this threshold? If you enjoy the elegance of creating change through small, visible steps and watching those actions ripple into larger transformations – then yes, it’s worth leaving ‘Why?’ behind and stepping into ‘What next?’. The door to change is already open; the decisive action is one simple step over the threshold.