Coaching Models: Part 3
The STEPPA Coaching Model: A Journey Through Emotions and Action
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Part 3 of 5: Continuing our series on powerful coaching frameworks, today we explore a model that adds emotional intelligence to the coaching toolkit. Have you missed any? Start here:
Have you ever set a goal with the best of intentions, only to find yourself stuck despite having a solid plan? The STEPPA coaching model might be a great coaching model to apply. Developed by Dr. Angus McLeod in 2003, this approach goes beyond simple goal setting to address what many other models miss: the crucial role emotions and perceptions play in our ability to create lasting change.
The Birth of a More Complete Coaching Model?
Dr. McLeod, a British coaching expert, created STEPPA as an evolution of earlier frameworks like the popular GROW model. He introduced it in his book, Performance Coaching: The Handbook for Managers, HR Professionals and Coaches, recognizing that sustainable change requires addressing not just what we do, but how we feel and think about our goals.
Since its introduction, STEPPA has been embraced by numerous coaching institutions, including the Oxford College of Management and Dr. McLeod's own Angus McLeod Associates. It's particularly popular among coaches who value emotional intelligence as a cornerstone of effective change. And, while not terribly unlike the models we’ve featured so far in this series, I have to admit that this model feels a bit different.
STEPPA or STEPPPA – Both Are Clear:
This coaching model can be found detailed out as both STEPPA and STEPPPA, the difference being that some choose to not combine two items into a single “P”. For the purpose of this article, and giving each nuanced piece it’s due, I have detailed this as STEPPPA in the following section. Either way, think of STEPPA/STEPPPA as your navigation system for change, taking you through seven essential steps on your journey to meaningful change:
S Is for Subject: Choosing Your Destination
Every coaching journey begins with clarity about what you're working on. This first step helps you identify and narrow down the specific area you want to address. This also seems to be the first step for all the great coaching models, of course.
A coach might ask:
What's the most important thing for us to focus on today?
Among everything on your mind, what would make the biggest difference if we worked on it?
T Is for Target: Defining Success
With your subject clear, it's time to establish what success looks like. The Target phase transforms general wishes into specific, measurable outcomes. This helps align the session to the ICF Core Competencies, specifically asking to define success measures. These measures can be for the goal or for the session, or for both!
Powerful questions here include:
What specifically would you like to achieve in this area?
What would make you say “Yes, I did it!”?
E Is for Emotions: Understanding Your Fuel, or Pinpointing Resistance
Here's where STEPPA really distinguishes itself. This phase acknowledges that our feelings can either propel us forward or hold us back. Understanding and working with your emotions rather than ignoring them creates a stronger foundation for change. This is the direct ask that makes me like this method!
A coach might explore:
When you think about this goal, what feelings come up for you?
Which emotions might be helping or hindering your progress?
P Is for Perceptions: Changing Your View
We all have stories and beliefs about what's possible. This step helps you recognize limiting perceptions and consider alternative viewpoints that might better serve your goals.
Insightful questions include:
What assumptions are you making about this situation?
What else could be true about this?
P Is for Plan: Mapping Your Route
With emotional awareness and fresh perspectives in place, now it's time to create a practical plan of action. This phase identifies specific steps, resources needed, and strategies for overcoming potential obstacles.
Planning questions include:
What specific actions will move you toward your goal?
What resources or support do you need to gather?
P Is for Pace: Finding Your Rhythm
The Pace phase addresses a common reason for failure: unsustainable timing. Whether too ambitious or too cautious, the wrong pace can derail even the best plans. This step helps you establish a rhythm that maintains momentum without leading to burnout.
A coach might ask:
How can you break this down into manageable pieces?
What pace will keep you motivated without overwhelming you?
A is for Accountability: Staying the Course
The final piece focuses on creating structures to support follow-through. This isn't about harsh self-judgment when you slip—it's about establishing helpful systems that keep you moving forward.
Key questions include:
How will you track your progress?
Who could support you along the way?
How will you celebrate small wins and learn from setbacks?
Is STEPPA Right for You?
Yes! So far, every method we’ve reviewed would hold a valuable place in the toolkit of practically any coach. Every method has its validity, applicability, and usefulness. STEPPA is no different in that capacity. The language of STEPPA may speak to you more than other models. I know it does for me.
I believe you will find this method offers a structured yet flexible approach that honors both the practical and emotional dimensions of change. By guiding clients through these seven essential steps, coaches can help create transformations that are not only effective but sustainable. Whether you're looking to enhance your professional coaching toolkit or seeking personal development strategies, STEPPA provides a roadmap that acknowledges we are thinking, feeling beings whose perceptions significantly impact our ability to change and grow
Try It Yourself
I mean this literally. Start with a little self-coaching around one of your own issues. Apply the STEPPA approach and notice how it changes or influences your thinking, feelings, and approach to the issue at hand. Your personal experience with this method might be the strongest reference you can have for it!
In our next segment in this series, we’re going to explore the Better YOU coaching model - Stay tuned!
Have you tried using the STEPPA model in your coaching practice or personal development? We'd love to hear about your experiences in the comments below.
