How images become a catalyst for change

In a world increasingly dominated by language, analysis, and data, many coaches and consultants are rediscovering the power of imagery. Metaphors are more than linguistic gimmicks—they are mental bridges that make complex feelings, thought processes, and relationship patterns tangible. Especially in coaching and consulting, metaphors have proven to be powerful tools for making the invisible visible, opening up new perspectives, and initiating change.

But how can these inner images be systematically integrated into the coaching process? What role do symbolic work and visual stimuli play in self-reflection? And how can simple tools like picture cards be used to create lasting inspiration?

What are metaphors – and why are they so effective in coaching?

We encounter metaphors every day, often unconsciously. We talk about the "plank in front of our heads," the "golden cage," or the proverbial "elephant in the room." These linguistic images give form to inner states, ways of thinking, or social dynamics—they make the abstract tangible.

Metaphors are therefore particularly effective in coaching practice :

• They open up spaces for discussion in which difficult topics can be addressed gently.
• They connect head and gut because they address both cognitive and emotional levels.
• They facilitate changes of perspective because you can interpret an image in different ways.
• They activate resources by symbolizing inner parts, desires or values.

From a psychological perspective, metaphors act like internal maps . They help clients understand themselves better – and coaches intervene in a targeted manner without being directive. Especially in working with the inner team , in value processes , in business coaching , or team development, they offer a safe framework for bringing things to the table that would otherwise remain unspoken.

How can metaphors be used specifically?

A common approach is so-called symbol work : This involves the targeted use of picture cards, symbols, or objects to externalize thoughts and emotions. Card methods are particularly helpful in this regard – they bring visual stimuli into play, promote association, and encourage reflection.

Practical examples:

• In individual coaching , clients can choose a card that symbolizes their current situation – for example, an image of a “turning point,” a “mountain peak,” or a “ticking time bomb.”
• In team moderation, the “elephant in the room” can be made visible – as an introduction to a difficult topic.
• In constellations with the system board, metaphors can be used to symbolically locate inner parts or interpersonal tensions.

This is where a sophisticated tool comes in, developed specifically for such coaching situations: the metaphor cards from ideen.kollektiv.

Metaphor cards as a professional tool in coaching

The metaphor cards consist of a collection of visually designed terms – powerful metaphors that can be easily used in coaching and consulting situations. Each card features a hand-painted watercolor motif embodying a classic idiom or inner image – from "rose-colored glasses" to "blockhead."

This makes them particularly effective:

• Variety of motifs : The cards cover typical coaching topics – values, blockages, roles, dynamics.
• High-quality design : Robust cardboard material, matt printed, climate-neutrally produced in Germany.
• Flexible use : In individual settings, group work, online coaching or in combination with system board figures.

By deliberately introducing a metaphor card, topics can often be made more tangible – starting a conversation is made easier and new perspectives open up.

Combination with emotion cards and system board

The metaphor cards combine perfectly with other coaching tools. For example, with the emotion cards from ideen.kollektiv, which highlight a wide range of emotions and thus enable even more nuanced reflection . Or in conjunction with the system board accessories , where the cards can be attached to figures or placed in constellations.

This creates a lively coaching process that enables deeper insights through symbolism and visualization . The cards never serve as a solution—but they open spaces for insights that would otherwise have remained hidden.

Conclusion

Metaphors are guides in change processes. They help to name things without having to say them directly. They invite a change of perspective and promote self-reflection. Working with metaphors—especially with purposefully designed metaphor cards—is therefore more than just a nice tool: It is a gateway to hidden meanings, a bridge between language and emotion.

For coaches and consultants looking for effective visualization methods, metaphor cards can be a valuable asset – whether as an introduction, as a stimulus, or to delve deeper into complex topics.

And if you're now wondering which metaphor could describe your current coaching question, then perhaps you've already found the elephant in the room...