(Distinctions are subtleties of language that, when gotten, cause a shift in a belief, behavior, value or attitude.)

 

The words sound the same but have completely different meanings.

When you have an insight you experience a new understanding, an ah-ha, a flash of new awareness. Something changes.

Incite means to start or cause. Again, something changes.

Insight is mainly about internal change, while incite is mainly about external change. Both are necessary. To have an insight and do nothing about it may lessen the usefulness of the insight. To incite something without a clear understanding of what it will do for you internally may also not be useful.

The two — insight and incite — go together. Maybe incite a riot of insights? Or simply use the principle of inciting insight? Play with this until it fits for you.

 

Coaching Point: What is an insight you’ve had lately upon which you then incited action?

 

Copyright 2008 Steve Straus. All rights reserved.