Snapshot
The exercise requires clients to describe their career metaphor in detail. Once a certain
metaphor has been identified, counselees are encouraged to find concrete examples of
ways this metaphor reflects in their real life. For instance, when identifying the ladder
metaphor, the counsellor may investigate the way this metaphor affects expectations or
beliefs. Clients may use formulas like “I have to climb step by step in my career”, which
could mean they are not at all open to professional opportunities that do not constitute a
step up by logical rigour. Everyday behaviour can also be an example of the influence
metaphors have in the clients’ mind: an image implying progress in small steps (“climb
the ladder slowly so as not to fall off”) may mean lack of pro-activeness. People avoid
putting themselves forward so as not to fail.
Following such a procedure and analysing a snapshot offered by the client, can give us
access to irrational personal beliefs, myths, and perceived barriers. For example,
important components in investigating a metaphor from the perspective of snapshots are
relationships with other people. Thus, if a person considers that no more than one fits on
the same rung of the “professional ladder”, he/she will not have the courage to attempt
reach a position occupied by a colleague. Using this type of exercise may modify
perceptions and expectations by requiring more flexibility in thinking and behaviour. For
instance, starting from investigation of the “ladder” metaphor, we might find that the
“ladder” in the client’s mind is a wooden one, rather rickety and narrow. Without
changing the metaphor itself we can replace the ladder with a solid, comfortable, wide
one, allowing several people to stand on the same rung, with support for hands, etc.
Dynamics
This exercise allows the in-depth examination of metaphors from the perspective of the
dimensions they involve. If in three-dimensional images we examine length, width and
height, in case of a metaphor we may examine dimensions such as: continuity, relations,
emotions, future perspectives, optimism, responsibility, cultural and social influences,
self-confidence, etc. For example, approaching metaphor on a continuum means
exploration of the metaphor from the level the client is at that moment in life, as well as
comparison of metaphors in various moments. Clients may thus become aware of the
metaphor dynamics and the way it acquires new meaning in time.
The perspective of the others
It is an exercise often used in most forms of counselling or therapy. Counsellors challenge
clients to describe an image or an emotion “through the eyes of another”. It is a way of
becoming aware of our subjectivity in given situations and of understanding that people
guide their existence function of “another reality”. The exercise helps clients identify new
angles to look at the same metaphor, as well as various meanings a metaphor acquires
with every new perspective. Counsellors can guide clients throughout the exercise using
the following types of questions: