We all have that colleague who usually thrives under pressure—quick to adapt, sharp with details, a natural problem-solver. But even the strongest strengths can hit a snag. Ever noticed a typically adaptable teammate suddenly overwhelmed by too much change? Or a data-driven coworker stuck in decision paralysis? It happens—and often, it’s a signal that their greatest strength is momentarily operating from the “basement” instead of the “balcony.” Understanding how to spot these moments—and how to guide your teammates back to their strengths and talents—can transform how your team performs and supports one another. Let’s explore how.
Boosting Your Co-worker’s Activator Power
Do you have a co-worker who’s usually full of energy and ideas, but every now and then, they just seem… stuck? I’ve known one who, despite being a total go-getter, sometimes gets overwhelmed by the sheer number of ideas bouncing around in their head. Instead of diving in and taking action, they freeze, paralyzed by the “what ifs.” It’s like watching an Activator on pause!
But here’s the thing: these are classic “basement” behaviors for an Activator. When they’re overwhelmed, they can get caught in indecision or overthinking, hiding their natural gift for action and drive. But underneath that, they have the potential to be a powerhouse—ready to take initiative, move mountains, and get things done.
So, how can we help them get back to their “balcony” and unleash their potential? Here are 3 ideas:
Give Clear Direction – Help them focus on one idea at a time. A little structure can turn that energy into clear action.
Celebrate Small Wins – Acknowledge the progress they make, even if it’s just a baby step. This can spark momentum and remind them how capable they are.
Encourage Risk-Taking – Let them know it’s okay to make mistakes. Sometimes, taking action and learning as they go is the key to breaking through the freeze!
Unleashing Your Co-worker’s Arranger Superpower
Do you have a co-worker who’s usually a pro at coordinating and managing multiple tasks, but every now and then, they seem to get a little overwhelmed? I’ve got one on my team who is usually the glue that holds everything together, effortlessly juggling different projects and people. But recently, when things got chaotic, they became paralyzed by the complexity, struggling to keep it all moving forward. It was like watching a master Arranger stuck in a whirlwind of tasks!
This is a classic case of “basement” behaviors for an Arranger. When things get too complicated, they can get bogged down in the details, leading to indecision and hesitation. But at their core, they have an incredible ability to organize, prioritize, and bring harmony to complex situations.
So how can we help them get back to their “balcony” and tap into their true potential? Here are 3 ideas:
Break Down the Chaos – Help them organize tasks into smaller, manageable pieces. Offering a clear structure can help them regain control.
Empower Their Team – Give them a sense of support by delegating tasks to others. This helps them focus on the bigger picture without feeling alone in the details.
Celebrate Their Coordination Skills – Acknowledge their strengths in bringing order to complexity. A little recognition goes a long way in boosting confidence and motivation.
By spotting when strengths slip into the “basement,” we can help teammates rise back to the “balcony,” where their natural talents shine. Whether it’s guiding an Activator to take bold steps or helping an Arranger bring order to complexity, small shifts in support can unlock big results. Ready to fuel your team’s strengths and help them thrive—even on the tough days? Let’s talk.
Stay strong,
Bill
Rocket Fuel Coach
Fuel Your Strengths. Ignite Your Potential.
