Simmons et al., (2013) defined a strengths-based approach as one that “focuses on using an individual’s strengths to improve their overall functioning, rather than solely addressing weaknesses” (*Note: this doesn’t mean completely ignoring weaknesses).
Strengths-based approaches to leadership have been more heavily researched in the business and management space, and across contexts have been found to lead to benefits such as well-being, engagement, productivity, goal progress and attainment, and confidence.
While the research is limited in sport settings, research has suggested that focusing on strengths can help develop and maintain robust sports confidence. Further, in one study that utilized a strength-based approach, athletes reported benefits, including increases in self-belief, motivation, and the ability to cope under pressure, along with clarity of focus for training and goal-direction.