The mind is a hard (wired) thing to change. This is mostly a good thing. We wouldn’t be any good if we couldn’t rely on our brain to take shortcuts, rush to judge, and run on automatic pilot the majority of the time. However, we will not become a master decision maker without developing the ability to hold dissonant thoughts in our working memory and learn to deal with it versus dismissing it. And, we won’t become a master decision maker without “violent disagreements” to our worldview being allowed in. Notice I didn’t say we must allow them to change us, but we must remain open to the possibility. Otherwise we will slowly insert ourselves into the prison of our own minds. We’ll have plenty of company inside these prison walls. The sad part is none will be connecting. We’ll feel like we’re in a crowded prison and we’ll feel, at the same time, that we’re alone.
When was the last time you questioned your deepest held beliefs? When was the last time you listened to one of your front line workers, really heard their “violent disagreement” with your approach, and, instead of dismissing them as young, ignorant, and out of line, asked them to tell you more? When was the last time you changed your mind? Was this change inspired by new learning or seeking some kinda consensus?
The mind is a hard thing to change. For so many it appears very easy – almost as if they can’t make up their mind. Hard to change and open minded is the one you want. Hard and open. Funny, huh…
BUILT TO LEAD 