1. Uncover Systems & Dynamics: Discover root causes and systemic structures that drive behavior.

2. Apply What Works: Enhance what is working well and de-emphasize what is not.

3. Use What Already Exists: Look for emerging dynamics that already exist and can be nurtured and developed over time.

4. Grasp What Inspires & Gives Life: Clarify what elevates vs. what depresses regarding current problems and challenges.

5. Focus on Possibilities: Embrace the imagination and envision future possibilities and potential innovations.

6. Clarify the Results: Continually reformulate goals and directions, recognizing that results are usually of greatest importance.


The Differences between a Traditional and Strength-Based Approach:

Traditional Problem-Solving	vs.	Strength-Based
Identifying the problem to be solved		Appreciating the "best of what is"
Analyzing root causes		Envisioning "what might be"
Intervening through action		Creating "what should be"
Rolling out solutions		Enabling people to realize their aspirations
Leadership assumption: - It’s about solving a problem		Leadership assumption: - It's about learning new ways of working