So far, we have seen how the Drama Triangle keeps us trapped in cycles of blame, helplessness, and over-helping.
But there is a way out. Each role in the triangle has a healthier, more constructive alternative.
This shift is often called moving from the Drama Triangle to the Empowerment Triangle.
By changing your mindset, you create new outcomes.
From Persecutor to Challenger
Instead of criticising and blaming, the Challenger role encourages growth and accountability.
A Challenger still sets boundaries and calls out behaviour, but does so constructively.
- Mindset shift: From “It’s all your fault” to “I believe you can handle this.”
- Behaviours: providing constructive feedback, asking tough but fair questions, holding people accountable.
- Result: builds respect and responsibility rather than fear and resistance.
From Victim to Creator
The Creator role is about reclaiming power. Instead of focusing on problems and what is missing,
Creators focus on possibilities and outcomes. They ask, “What do I want to create here?”
- Mindset shift: From “Poor me” to “I have choices.”
- Behaviours: taking initiative, focusing on goals, looking for solutions rather than obstacles.
- Result: builds confidence, energy, and momentum.
From Rescuer to Coach
The Coach role still supports others, but in a way that empowers rather than rescues.
Instead of stepping in to fix, the Coach asks questions that help others find their own answers.
This builds independence and growth.
- Mindset shift: From “Let me help you” to “I believe in your ability to handle this.”
- Behaviours: asking powerful questions, listening, encouraging ownership, offering guidance only when invited.
- Result: strengthens others, prevents dependency, and promotes learning.
How could you reframe that role into one of the three C’s — Challenger, Creator, or Coach?
What difference might that have made?
Shifting from the Drama Triangle to the Empowerment Triangle is not about perfection.
It is about awareness and choice. Each time you pause and choose a healthier role,
you strengthen your ability to create better outcomes.
In the next lesson, we will look at how to practise and integrate these shifts into daily life
so they become second nature.