The GROW Model; I USE IT ON SELF BEFORE USING IT ON OTHERS

• Goal.
• Current Reality.
• Options (or Obstacles).
• Will (or Way Forward).

A good way of thinking about the GROW Model is to think about how you’d plan a journey. First, you decide where you are going (the Goal), and establish where you currently are (your current Reality). You then explore various routes (the Options) to your destination. In the final step, establishing the Will (Wayforward), you ensure that you’re committed to making the journey, and are prepared for the obstacles that you could meet on the way.

I have learned that one great way to practice GROW is by addressing my own challenges and issues. First I identify an issue that I am struggling with or something I am not very happy about and would want to change. I then take myself through the GROW model. What is my Goal?; How will I know the problem has been solved? I can’t reach my goal, though, without considering where I am now. Hence, the next thing to consider is my Reality; what is happening now? Next I will explore all the possible Options for reaching my goal; What can I do? What else can I do? Having examined the current reality and explored possible options, I now have a good idea of how I can achieve my goal. However, much as this is great it is not enough and I need to get into the final step which is to commit to a specific action or actions. Only then can I move forward towards my goal. I need to ask myself what will I do next and when? How do I review progress and who will hold me accountable?

By practicing on my own and getting myself “unstuck,” I learn how to ask myself the most helpful questions. These are the questions I write down as prompts for future mentoring sessions.

Reflection

“A wise man will hear and increase in learning, and a man of understanding will acquire wise counsel.” – Proverbs 1:5

Mary Kamore is the Lead Consultant M_OliveS Mentors