Coaching Model: D.R.A.F.T.

A Coaching Model Created by Regina Wilson
(Conflict Coach, UNITED STATES)

The only thing that is constant is change – Heraclitus

There are many definitions of the word draft.  Per Dictionary.com there are 34 different meanings for the word draft.  A draft can be a drawing, sketch, or design.  A draft is also defined as a first or preliminary form of writing.  To draft is to draw the outlines or plan of or to compose writing. 

When considering my coaching journey as a coach and a client, I thought of the fact that nothing is ever final.  We are always learning and growing.  We are a work in progress.  With the D.R.A.F.T. Coaching Model, the client can create a plan to accomplish their goals.  It acknowledges that the client is always a work in progress. It also takes into consideration that plans and goals often change.  There is nothing wrong with coming up with a new plan or changing your goals.

This coaching model envisions the coaching space provided for the client is that of openness and support, where the client feels free to explore.  The client is present in the session and free from distraction. The client is resourceful and already has all the answers.

Discover

Discover: to see, get knowledge of, learn of, find, or find out; gain sight or knowledge of (Dictionary.com)

The first step is to discover the client’s goal(s).  What does the client want to bring to or discuss in the coaching session?  This step also involves exploration.  The client may think they want to discuss one thing but after asking for more specifics, it could be that the client wishes to discuss something else.  Invite the client to discuss the importance of their goal(s) and for them to be specific about what the goal looks like.  The client should be open and curious.

Reflect

Reflect: to think, ponder, or meditate (Dictionary.com)

After the client has established their goal(s), the next step is to reflect on where they are currently about their goal(s).  The client should reflect on their current perspective, point(s) of view, mindset, and thoughts.

Analyze & Gain Awareness

Analyze: to examine carefully and in detail to identify causes, key factors, possible results, etc. (Dictionary.com)

Awareness: the state or condition of being aware; knowing; consciousness (Dictionary.com)

The client takes the goal(s) developed during the discovery stage and the insights gained during the reflection stage to analyze how their current mindset may impact their goal.  The client can also explore different options or actions to take to reach their goal.  The client and the coach need to acknowledge any new awareness or takeaways learned during this stage.

Focus

Focus: a central point, as of attraction, attention, or activity (Dictionary.com)

The next step is for the client to take the options and actions discussed in the previous step and chose which option or action to focus on.  The options or actions that are chosen could be for the next session or the overall goal(s).

Take Action

Action: an act that one consciously wills and that may be characterized by physical or mental activity (Dictionary.com)

The last step is for the client to take action on the option or action that they chose to focus on.  The client and the coach should also take action to acknowledge and celebrate the client’s learning, new awareness, and/or takeaways.