connecteddale

Strategy Coach — Clarity + Alignment

Paradoxes & Polarity

Purpose

Navigate tensions that cannot be solved, only managed

How to Use

Based on Barry Johnson's Polarity Management. 1. Identify whether the challenge is a problem to solve (either/or) or a polarity to manage (both/and -- no permanent solution). 2. Draw the Polarity Map: name the two poles (e.g., Results vs Relationships). 3. Map the upsides of both poles and the downsides of each when over-focused. 4. Identify the current position -- which pole has been over-focused and what are the warning signs? 5. Identify early warning indicators and action steps for each pole. 6. Agree a rhythm of attention that oscillates between both poles.

Created by Barry Johnson

When to Use

This tool is suited to the following coaching and facilitation contexts:

Context Relevant
Individual Coaching
Team Coaching
Leadership Development
Facilitation / Workshop
Online / Virtual