How I replaced SWOT with SOAR
and built teams that actually trust each other.
Why SOAR is the smarter, more human alternative to SWOT:
1️⃣ It starts with what’s right
↳ People need recognition of what they already do well.
2️⃣ It builds trust
↳ Talking about aspirations builds psychological safety.
3️⃣ It connects the now to the future
↳ Teams see how strengths become results.
4️⃣ It encourages hope, not fear
↳ Opportunity creates energy — threats drain it.
5️⃣ It makes strategy feel personal
↳ “What makes us proud?” > “What are our weaknesses?”
6️⃣ It honors team voices
↳ SOAR includes what customers and peers already value.
7️⃣ It reframes challenge as possibility
↳ Less “What could go wrong?” More “What could be better?”
8️⃣ It’s emotionally intelligent
↳ Aspirations matter just as much as results.
9️⃣ It drives belonging
↳ Teams feel more engaged when the focus is strengths.
🔟 It aligns with how real humans change
↳ SOAR makes growth feel attainable, not overwhelming.
The best leaders don’t fix people.
They amplify them.
❓ What’s one aspiration your team is aiming for?
Credit to Dr. Chris Mullen, follow him for more insightful content.