Find the Bright Spot

We’re wired to spot problems, not possibilities - which can help us improve, but it doesn’t always spark change. Flip the script: find the bright spots and build on what works.

What We Focus On Amplifies

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What We Focus On Amplifies *

A diagram showing the steps of a process: Spot, Analyze, Amplify. Symbolizes one part of the Grow Others Framework for Teams and Families and Parents @ Coulda Woulda - Find the Bright Spot, a Tool from Change Management

How to Find Bright Spots

Quick Starter Guide

Finding Bright Spots is about uncovering hidden wins and using them as a launchpad for growth. Here’s how to help the person you’re guiding spark change with this tool:

  • Spot: Look for moments where their goal (e.g., team performance, family routine, healthy habit) is already working - even a little (e.g. being on time/meeting a deadline)

  • Analyze: Ask, “What conditions made that success possible?” Was it a specific time, support, or mindset? (e.g. They thrive with clear instructions.)

  • Amplify: Replicate those conditions elsewhere. How can you apply what worked to other areas? (e.g. Provide clear instructions for all tasks.)

Start Your Bright Spot Hunt

Bright Spots In Action

Bright Spots work across any relationship or goal.
Here are tailored strategies and micro-challenges to help you apply this tool.
Try one today to spark a beginning.

For Leaders

Common Problem: “My team resists new processes.”

Bright Spot Strategy: Identify one person who adopted the process successfully. Ask, “What helped them succeed?” Share their story in the next meeting and invite them to mentor others.

Micro-Challenge: Find one Bright Spot in your team today (e.g., someone’s efficiency) and share it publicly.

For Parents

Common Problem: “My child never helps with chores.”

Bright Spot Strategy: Notice when they do help—even in small ways. Say, “I saw you put your plate away—that was helpful!” Build on that moment: “Want to help me with one more thing?”

Micro-Challenge: Catch your child doing something helpful today and name it out loud.

WHY THIS WORKS

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WHY THIS WORKS *

Symbolizes one part of the Grow Others Framework for Teams and Families and Parents @ Coulda Woulda - Science Backed Tools for Change Management

The Science Behind Bright Spots

  • Positive Reinforcement: Recognizing wins sustains behavior more than criticism (Laurie Santos on motivation). It shifts focus from “I can’t” to “I already did.”

  • Identity Shift: Repeated recognition of success builds a new self-view, like “I am helpful” or “I am capable” (James Clear on identity-based habits).

  • Social Proof: Sharing Bright Spots creates a ripple effect - others mimic what works (Adam Grant on organizational psychology). Teams and families grow stronger together.


    You’re not just spotting wins - you’re rewiring their mindset (and yours) for lasting growth.

Point to the Destination. Help others change. Framework for Growth and Building the Skills you need to Help Others Grow and Change - Science Backed Tools at Coulda Woulda for leaders, parents and humans.

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The Destination

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Start With a Clear Image
Help others change. Framework for Growth and Building the Skills you need to Help Others Grow and Change - Science Backed Tools at Coulda Woulda for leaders, parents and humans.
Seed, Nurture, Root Framework for Change Management Tool to help others change. Framework for Growth. Helping Others Grow and Change - Science Backed Tools at Coulda Woulda for leaders, parents and humans to learn skills and grow.

The Seed-Nurture-Root Framework

Find science-backed tools to spark change, build momentum, and make it last.

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