Part I | Support and Challenge Framework

Feeling stuck in new work situations?

Use this powerful framework to find the sweet spot between Support and Challenge.

We perform at our best when we strike the right balance between support and challenge from leaders, stakeholders, and colleagues.

But too much of one and not enough of the other? That can hurt the culture your organisation is trying to build.

So, how do we get the balance right and create a culture that leads with Support and challenge?

The Challenge-Support Matrix.

This simple tool helps you unlock higher performance with your team.

The matrix with the four quadrants drawn with a pencil.

Here’s how it works:

• High Support + Low Challenge: Leads to comfort but creates dependency. People feel secure and cared for but may become too dependent on support, leading to complacency and a lack of growth.

• Low Support + Low Challenge: Apathy takes over, and nothing gets done. With minimal guidance or expectations, this zone breeds apathy, causing disengagement and little to no progress.

• Low Support + High Challenge: Stress levels spike, and confrontation grows. High demands without adequate support create a stressful environment, leading to burnout, frustration, and frequent conflict.

• High Support + High Challenge: The sweet spot—nurtures growth and drives results. This ideal balance fosters growth, as people feel supported while being pushed to reach their full potential, driving high performance and satisfaction.

As a leader, the balance you create can be the difference between inaction and achievement.

Too much support without challenge? You’ll face stagnation.

Too much challenge without support? Stress will overwhelm your team.

Where do you fit in this matrix today?

And what can you shift to build a more effective culture of high support and high challenge?

Stay tuned for the second part, where we dive into leadership styles tied to this matrix.

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