By Bill Mason, Rocket Fuel Coach
Every team benefits from people who think carefully and those who help others grow. But under pressure, even our strongest traits can slip into “basement” behaviors. Recognizing what’s happening beneath the surface helps us support co-workers in returning to their “balcony,” where their natural strengths shine.
Unlocking Your Co-worker’s Deliberative Superpower
Do you have a co-worker who’s usually great at carefully weighing options and making thoughtful decisions, but every so often, they seem stuck in a loop of overthinking? I’ve got one on my team who typically shines by thinking things through, ensuring that every move is well-considered. But recently, during a project meeting, they became paralyzed by the need to analyze every possible risk and outcome. It was like watching a master of deliberation stuck in the basement of indecision!
This is a classic case of “basement” behaviors for someone with the Deliberative strength. When they feel overwhelmed by options or pressure, they can get bogged down in analysis, which delays progress. But at their core, they have an amazing ability to make well-informed, thoughtful decisions that minimize risk and lead to success.
How can we help them get back to their “balcony” and thrive? Here are 3 ideas:
- Provide Clear Priorities – Help them focus on the most important decisions first. Having a clear framework can reduce the overwhelm and enable quicker action.
- Encourage Small Wins – Give them opportunities to make decisions on smaller, lower-risk items to build their confidence and momentum.
- Celebrate Their Thoughtfulness – Acknowledge their careful approach and how it brings clarity and stability to the team. Positive reinforcement can help them feel empowered to trust their judgment.
Let’s help them tap into their deliberative strength and keep making thoughtful, confident decisions!
Unlocking Your Co-worker’s Developer Superpower
Do you have a co-worker who’s usually amazing at spotting potential and helping others grow, but every so often, they seem to get discouraged when progress feels slow? I’ve got one on my team who’s typically great at nurturing talent and developing skills in others. But recently, when things didn’t seem to be improving fast enough, they became frustrated and started focusing on what wasn’t working. It was like watching a coach stuck in the basement of impatience!
This is a classic case of “basement” behaviors for someone with the Developer strength. When they don’t see immediate progress or growth, they can become disheartened and lose sight of their incredible ability to cultivate potential. But at their core, they have an amazing knack for seeing the best in others and helping people develop into their best selves.
How can we help them get back to their “balcony” and thrive? Here are 3 ideas:
- Celebrate Small Wins – Encourage them to acknowledge even small progress. Recognizing these achievements can help them stay motivated and focused on the positive growth.
- Provide Encouraging Feedback – Remind them of how much impact they’ve had on others’ development. Positive reinforcement can reignite their confidence in their role as a mentor.
- Foster Patience – Help them see the long-term potential in the people they’re developing. Remind them that growth takes time and their efforts are creating lasting change.
Let’s help them tap into their Developer strength and keep growing amazing talent!
When we understand how strengths behave under stress, we can lead with empathy and intention. Supporting thoughtful decision-makers and patient people-developers helps teams grow stronger, healthier and more effective.
Fuel Your Strengths. Ignite Your Potential.
rocketfuelcoach.com | (850) 855-3430 | bill@rocketfuelcoach.com
