Professional Development for Our Accredited Network

Ever feel pulled in different directions at the same time? Part of you wants to grow, achieve and back yourself - while another part seeks certainty, approval, safety or control. The result can feel like a constant internal push-pull. In this session, we'll explore the patterns often described as Bowties and Opposites within the LSI Circumplex. Bowties occur when two Defensive styles are strongly at play together - a task-oriented Defensive style combined with a people-oriented Defensive style. These combinations can create internal tension, mixed messages and exhausting self-talk. Common examples include:

• Competitive + Approval — needing to win while also needing to be liked, Perfectionistic + Conventional — fear of failure combined with highly risk-averse thinking: "If I follow the rules perfectly, I'll get it right."

Opposites occur when a Constructive style and its opposing Defensive style are both evident. These styles are driven by different needs (growth and satisfaction versus security and self-protection). Examples include:

• Achievement & Dependent, Self-Actualising & Avoidance, Humanistic-Encouraging & Oppositional When Defensive styles overpower Constructive ones, the result can be frustration, hesitation and reduced effectiveness. Strengthening Constructive thinking while reducing Defensive patterns helps create more balanced, authentic and effective behaviour.

In this session we will: - Understand the dynamics of Bowties and Opposites within the LSI Circumplex - Explore the tensions, payoffs and trade-offs within these patterns - Reflect on how they show up in leadership, teamwork and everyday interactions - Explore practical strategies to strengthen more Constructive and intrinsically motivating ways of thinking and behaving Online When:  Wednesday 21st October 2026, 12-1pm Where: A virtual link will be emailed Prerequisite: Must be Accredited (or in process of becoming accredited) Facilitator: Justine Farrington Cost: Free