Coaching Principles Part Eleven - Support vs Challenge

The oldies are the best!

Well, I think so.  The support and challenge model for coaches has been around a long, long time....  But I think it is still great and extremely relevant.

Here is a quick description of the Sanford Support and Challenge model and what it means for each quadrant.

When working with a human in a coaching style, it is important to adjust your style to what is required to help them grow.  Simple idea but very powerful. It just means asking yourself 'What is the most helpful way that I can work with this person in front of me?'


Low support, Low challenge leads to apathy and no action
Low support, High challenge leads to stress
High support, Low challenge leads to warm fuzzy feelings!

High support, High challenge leads to “Coaching with bite” and high performance

That's it.  Nice and simple but powerful when you get it right.

Take care
Paul