The GROW Model

As a coach, I have a responsibility to not only help my clients gain a new or wider perspective but to empower them to act in ways that move their lives forward. Achieving this requires that our conversation has a level of direct focus and direction. The GROW model enables me and my clients to sort through the complex puzzle of content that they share and provides some structure to my inquiry in sessions and my note taking as a coach. 

This resource is particularly helpful when:

• a client is facing a dilemma where they are unclear about their intent or choices

• the coachee has a tendency to jump from topic to topic without a sense of intention

• the client is interested in a framework for self-coaching and decision-making

How does it work? GROW stands for goal, reality, options/obstacles and will/way forward. 

• Step1: Explore the Goal: What do you want to achieve? (Topic, objectives, long term aims & outcomes)

• Step 2 : Explore the Current Reality: What’s the current reality? (Assess what’s happening now)

• Step 3: Identify Options or Obstacles: What could you do? What may get in your way? (Identify choice points)

• Step 4: Will and Plan a Way forward: What will you commit to do? (Plan specific action steps, timeline, agreed support)

Limitation: It’s important to note that the framework developer, John Whitmore, designed the GROW model to be applied in a way that positions the client as the expert in their own experience. The coach is to act as a facilitator who helps identify and select the best options instead of offer advice or direction. While the coach can offer options, they are just that options and should refrain from giving directives. Ultimately, choices should be made, implemented and owned by the client.