This article, published in Coaching Philosophy: an International Journal, argues that
reflection is a vital skill for coaches, both in terms of helping their clients reflect and in their practice. This paper argues that the virtue of applied wisdom (phronesis), which is necessary for virtuous action, is a form of reflection. Reflection using phronesis is essential for virtuous behaviour or action that achieves the moral purpose or end (telos) of the client. Coaches, as key agents in behaviour change, must therefore engage in phronesis if they are to support their client to achieve their telos. It can also help provide an approach to ethical dilemmas. The virtue of phronesis can be developed by habit and education and should be considered when training coaches.
