The S.I.M.P.L.E. Way to Reflect and Grow
Experience alone does not necessarily lead to learning; it is important to intentionally reflect on experience. We all learn best when we give ourselves a little space to pause and gently explore our experiences. Reflective Practice is to enhance personal and professional growth by learning from past experiences. Reflexive Practice is to gain insight into how personal and contextual factors influence behaviour and develop a more insightful and self-aware approach to practice.
The S.I.M.P.L.E. process offers a grounded and encouraging way to do just that—bringing together reflection (what happened?) and reflexivity (how am I part of this picture?) in a kind and useful way.
S is for Self-awareness
Start by noticing what’s happening inside.
Reflective: What were you feeling or thinking in that moment?
Reflexive: What personal values, beliefs or past experiences might have been quietly shaping your response?
This step is about kindly noticing—not judging—your inner world. It’s a check-in, not a critique.
I for Inquiry
Become curious about the experience.
Reflective: What happened? What made it unfold the way it did?
Reflexive: In what ways might your actions, tone, or assumptions have influenced how things turned out?
Here, we’re not looking for fault – we’re looking for understanding. Compassionate curiosity is to help identify what could help us move forward.
M is Meaning-Making
Take a moment to consider why this experience matters.
Reflective: What stood out to you that felt important, meaningful or unexpected?
Reflexive: How did your unique context—who you are, where you are in life, what you’ve been through— influence that meaning?
Making sense of things, so the experience can offer insight rather than just pass you by.
P for Perspective
Widen the lens a little.
Reflective: What might another person have noticed about what you did? What might they say to you?
Reflexive: How might social, cultural, or systemic influences be quietly shaping the way you see or respond?
Expanding fresh ways of seeing, so you are not limited with just one lens.
L for Learning
Let the experience offer its wisdom.
Reflective: What are you learning about yourself, others, or the situation?
Reflexive: How can these insights support or stretch your current beliefs or patterns?
The aha! lightbulb moment may happen at this point, because small realisations can lead to meaningful shifts.
And E for Evolution
Take that learning forward with care.
Reflective: How might this shape your approach next time? How can you use what you’ve learned in the future?
Reflexive: What would it look like to integrate this learning into your day-to-day life in small ways? What would you like to change or do differently based on this?
Turning insight into action. Tiny shifts here can lead to powerful change over time.
A Gentle Word to End With…
Reflective and reflexive practice doesn’t need to be heavy or hard. With the S.I.M.P.L.E. approach, you’re simply inviting more awareness, more choice, and more alignment between who you are and how you show up. It’s a way of honouring your own journey – and continuing to grow in a direction that feels true to you.
Reflection in Coaching Supervision
Coaching Supervision is a wonderful opportunity to create a safe and trusting environment for reflection about your own coaching practice. The International Coaching Foundation (ICF) and EMCC recommend that, because of the complex dynamics of team coaching, it is important that practitioners engage in guided reflective practice for development and support.
If you would like to know more about Coaching Supervision, whether 1:1 or team sessions, please feel free to schedule a free Reflective Coffee Chat with me.