Too much analysis, too little expression?

I’m currently preparing material for a Frank Farrelly approved Provocative Therapy training and I’m reminded of how essential expression is in effective communication. In PCW we spend a great deal of time making sure that students have a wide range of expression. This meansthey don’t simply default to “sounding like and coach and/or therapist” in a well meaning but often too cerebral manner.

Want to learn the art of “engagement?” watch stand up artists!

One of the best ways to learn the art of engagement in communication is to watch the very best stand up artists. Their job is to connect with an audience and through their work change how people think and feel. Here are two examples which personally illustrate a great use of expression and rhythm. Both of these show fantastic state contril and timing to connect at a human to human level.

The first example is George Carlin who brilliantly shows how to use variations in rhythm to create a great sense of tension and release in this monologue

The second example is Steward Lee who uses this presentation to create an almost unbearable sense of tension, that is finally brilliantly resolved. Its a masterclass in state contraol and delivery. This is the true art of engagement, rarely taught in coaching and therapeutic trainings.

Stewart Lee keeps changing his inflection by repeating the exact same line and keeps the communication wonderfully conversational without changing his own state. I have seen him live many times and he is quite brilliant in provoking audience responses. Yes, it may result in laughter, but this is more than simply being comedic.

In PCW we explore the use of expression communication to ENGAGE with others and realise that “expression” will be far more productive in assiting clients in useful change. If you have any doubts, tey working with a ten year old with a phobia and see how well the session goes!