Introduction: Why Transactional Analysis can help Leaders

In a business environment being transformed by rapid innovation and changing expectations, leaders must navigate not only strategy and performance but the subtle dynamics of communication, motivation and conflict within teams.

Transactional Analysis (TA), developed by psychiatrist Dr. Eric Berne, offers a practical framework for understanding how we think, feel and interact - and how these patterns influence how we lead, how we work together and how we develop our emotional intelligence.

At its heart, TA helps us understand why we and others behave the way we do, and how to shift interactions toward effective, growth oriented exchanges.

These frameworks can bring to life what is behind limiting thoughts and beliefs that have often become an unconscious pattern in the way we operate. Through my coaching practice, I use TA to guide leaders toward greater self-understanding and conscious choice.

Life Scripts: The unseen drivers of our leadership journey

An example of one of the many helpful theories in Transactional Analysis is Life Script. A life script is an unconscious life plan formed in early childhood, shaped by messages from parents, culture and experience.

It subtly influences how we define success, handle failure and pursue goals.

Common narratives of life scripts driving leadership behaviour:

• “I must be perfect” - Drives excellence but fuels burnout

• “I must please everyone” - Builds relationships but hinders tough decisions

• “I must be strong” - Inspires confidence but suppresses vulnerability

Life Script theory in Leadership Coaching

By bringing these scripts into awareness, leaders can rewrite outdated narratives, shifting from unconscious compulsion to conscious choice.

The sort of questions coaching can ask in relation to life scripts:

What early message still shapes how I measure my worth or success today?

Curious about how TA can elevate your leadership? Head over to the blog for fresh perspectives and practical tools, or subscribe below.