Michael Bungay Stanier, a renowned coach and author, emphasises the importance of taming one’s ‘advice monster,’ particularly in fields like healthcare where clear communication and client engagement are vital. 

The ‘advice monster’ is the tendency to jump in with solutions and advice rather than actively listening to the client.

In the context of any healthcare clinician, it’s crucial to elicit from clients what they feel confident in committing to with regards to home exercises. 

The traditional approach in healthcare often involves clinicians diagnosing a problem and then prescribing a solution or set of instructions for the client to follow. 

This method stems from the clinician’s training and expertise in problem-solving and their role as a knowledgeable authority. However, when it comes to managing chronic injuries or illnesses, this approach has shown limitations.

Why Giving Advice Doesn’t Always Work:

• Lack of Ownership: When advice is given, clients might not feel a sense of ownership over the solution. Without this personal investment, they may be less motivated to follow through with the prescribed exercises or treatments

• Mismatch with Patient’s Reality: Clinicians’ advice is based on their expertise, but it may not always align with the client’s lifestyle, preferences, or abilities. This disconnect can lead to unrealistic expectations and non-compliance

• Undermines Self-Efficacy: Constantly receiving advice can make clients feel dependent on their clinician and undermine their confidence in managing their condition independently

• Resistance to Change: People are generally resistant to change, especially when it’s imposed upon them. When advice is given, rather than collaboratively developed, clients may resist adopting the recommended changes

The Shift Needed for Clinicians:

To move away from being the ‘advice monster,’ clinicians need to shift towards a more client-centred approach. This involves:

• Active Listening: Truly listening to the client’s concerns, experiences, and perspectives

• Asking Open-Ended Questions: Encouraging clients to express their thoughts and feelings about their condition and potential solutions

• Collaborative Goal Setting: Working with the client to set achievable and meaningful goals

• Empowering Clients: Supporting clients in discovering their own solutions and building confidence in their ability to manage their condition

• Reflective Practice: Regularly reflecting on their own approach and adjusting as necessary to better meet the needs of their clients

When Giving Advice is Appropriate:

While there is a need to tame the ‘advice monster,’ there are circumstances where giving advice is not only appropriate but necessary:

• Safety Concerns: If a client is at risk of harming themselves or others, direct advice is crucial

• Lack of Knowledge or Experience: When clients lack the knowledge or experience to make informed decisions about their health, clinicians must offer guidance

• Medical Necessity: In cases where specific medical interventions are necessary (e.g., medication, investigations, expert opinion), clear and direct advice is required

• Client Preference: Some clients may prefer to receive direct advice and clear instructions, especially in situations where they feel overwhelmed or uncertain

In summary, while physiotherapists are trained to solve problems and often default to giving advice, the evidence in healthcare management shows that for chronic injuries or illnesses, a more collaborative approach is effective. 

This involves engaging clients in the decision-making process, encouraging self-management, and tailoring interventions to the client’s unique situation. However, there are situations where giving direct advice is necessary and beneficial.