The Value of Thinking Differently
Like many of you, I am a creature of habit.
Patterns permeate my thinking and influence my actions. They run silently in the background like the operating system controlling the keystrokes on my laptop while writing this blog.
Our engrained thought habits help us sort through the clutter and chaos of our world and provide efficient ways to get things done.
How I get dressed in the morning is the result of a thought pattern that has been refined over many years. Socks before pants may seem insignificant, but these resourceful ways to master mundane tasks work so well we typically dress without much thought.
Patterns of thinking are present in dozens of home and work activities. Without this pre-determined approach to the routine tasks of life, we would lose precious time and likely face frustration.
Leadership Thought Patterns
Leaders can fail to understand the impact thought patterns have on their organizations. This is especially true when faced with process change or the need to solve a pressing issue.
It is difficult to embrace new ways of looking at old problems or challenging the assumptions that drive our behaviors. Rather than dig deeply to find innovative ideas, we gravitate toward solutions that seem familiar or pose less risk.
Breakthrough concepts won’t make it to market if we stop searching when our thinking is pushed beyond our comfort zone.
Innovative thinking requires more than just a creative approach to problem solving.
Many times, the changes we seek never happen because our assessment of the problem is limited or focused on a symptom of a bigger issue. When we rush to relieve anxiety, the real concern often remains buried in the shadows of quick fixes and familiar patterns of thinking.
It is hard to admit that the ridiculous, the silly, or the outrageous may harbor the next great idea. Vetting these takes more time and energy than most of us want to expend.
So, we settle.
Settle for less than stellar performance, productivity, ingenuity, and creativity.
We embrace our familiar patterns of thought and behavior because it is easier, cheaper, and comfortable.
Our organization, processes, products, and services remain good, but not excellent.
The people we serve must lower their expectations or seek another vendor willing to offer something that is truly different.
Final Thoughts
Leadership is more than managing efficiently; it is also about leading effectively. Being willing to think in new and different ways is one opportunity to do this.
Maybe it’s time to put your socks on last, or not wear any at all.
Photo Credit: istockphoto.com
