In the Comfort Zone, you benefit most from building on existing strengths.
This approach draws on strengths theory by Clifton and Drucker, which shows that progress is most sustainable when it builds on what is already working well.
In the Stretch Zone, the focus shifts to reinforcing the weakest area
Based on learning theory by Vygotsky, this strategy supports growth by targeting the edge of current capability—where challenge leads to development without causing overwhelm.
In the Panic Zone, the priority is stabilization.
Systems thinking from Senge and crisis response insights from Fink highlight the importance of simplifying action. Focusing on one critical variable helps reduce overload and create space to recover.