Paradigm shifts
Stephen Covey famously wrote that if you want to make incremental improvements work on behavior, if you want massive growth—change your paradigm.
A paradigm is the lens through which we see—or rather, interpret reality. Our personal or corporate worldview greatly colors our perceptions and attitudes and, therefore, imposes on our actions.
For example, if we see ourselves trapped in inescapable circumstances that limit our potential—we probably won’t try new things or work feverishly to make a breakthrough.
Contrast that defeatist worldview with visionaries who believe: "If I can dream it I can do it!"
How do we know if a change in viewpoint is in order? Especially since one benefit of a healthy culture is carrying on good things from the past. The positive rituals, practices, and traditions we inherit link generations and give stability.
Yet if paradigms are not constantly reviewed in light of an ever-changing world we risk constraining ourselves. Can the appearance of stability come from running in place? Remember, statues are very stable (unless they tip over after being canceled). Consider the major shift the pandemic has forced on how we communicate. Zoom has replaced face-to-face.
“If you want massive growth change your paradigm.”
Here's a true / false quiz that might help you reflect:
We value consistency and predictability over change—even change that might eventually be great.
Most factors impacting our performance are external that we are powerless to change.
We are not capable of surviving a gamble that doesn't pay off.
We know what worked in the past and are committed to keep doing it—even if results are flagging.
Perhaps you expect me to say, "If you answered true you need to change your paradigms." Nope. One or more of these statements may accurately reflect your world.
The point is you should craft statements like these and hold them up to the light in in your annual strategic review and planning. List your paradigms and see if they still fit. If so, great. If not, you need a shift.
