The CTFAR Model

Last week I had a Transition Coaching call and we went through the CTFAR Model, which is:

1. Circumstance

2. Thought

3. Feeling

4. Action

5. Result

Meaning, that you write down (you could do it in your head, but I highly recommend writing it down as it activates a different part of your brain) the circumstance that is affecting you. Then the thought that said circumstance created, and then the feeling that the thought brings up. From there, you write down the action that has (or hasn’t) happened due to the feeling, and the result of the action/inaction.

Let’s use an example:

1. Circumstance: Bad fall off your horse

2. Thought: That was scary and caused me harm

3. Feeling: Fearful to get back on

4. Action: Not getting back on or doing much with your horse

5. Result: Continuing to feel the fear and stay stuck

After identifying her CTFAR, we also did the same thing for the horse. The horse was a newer horse to her (they were just a few months into their relationship). It was an off-the-track Thoroughbred who, after leaving the track, was moved around from home to home and trainer to trainer. She said he is an anxious, tense horse and lacks confidence. The fall happened when they were in the arena with a group of other horses and riders, the situation was a little uneasy to begin with and he bolted and bucked. So, let’s see what we uncovered using the CTFAR Model:

1. Circumstance: Came off the track and repeatedly moved around

2. Thought: Humans keep moving me and I'm never in one place or with one person for long

3. Feeling: I can never settle in and find my place

4. Action: Lack of confidence in himself and humans

5. Result: Bucking, bolting, tension, anxiety

Once we identified the situation from the horse’s perspective, she was able to see it in a new way and we were able to set up a plan to move forward with building their relationship and trust/confidence in themselves and each other.

I have had to use things like the CTFAR Model many times myself (in all areas of my life, not just horses) and it’s a great way to see things from a different perspective.

If you have any questions about it, or about my Transition Coaching, please don’t hesitate to ask!

PS: I’m passionate about this topic because I know what it’s like to feel like you’re stuck in the mud and can’t find your footing. You can read about it here (scroll to the bottom for My Story)