you ever discovered that what you thought to be so, actually, wasn’t so? That’s because our mind takes reality, and makes it fit into our belief system, our assumptions and what works for us in a given moment. These are the distortions created by your mental map.
Consider then, that what you see as the direct path in your mental map is not the shortest path. So, how do you find the shortest path?
First of all, be ready to accept that
what seems straightforward to you, may not be so for others.
Then consider some options:
maybe it’s an additional conversation with a stakeholder. Perhaps it’s one more meeting to get more buy-in from the team. Maybe it’s further research to dispel something that’s in the back of your mind. Maybe it’s saying “no”
Take a look at your action list for a medium or long term goal. Think of possible actions that are close to what you’ve considered as an action path. Decide on a couple of ‘nearby’ action items and add them to your action list. Execute these seemingly non-direct actions and see where it takes you.
to something that seems to pull us on what appears to be the direct way.
How do you know if any particular step is the right step? You try it out. Take a small action and assess if you’re closer to the destination. As you practice this, you’ll get better at understanding what is truly the shortest route– and in the process you also learn how your mental map projects (and distorts) the real world.
Take the next step and get into action
About the Author
A scientist turned businessman, Josef Martens applies cutting-edge (and relatable!) insights from sciences to spark innovation and creativity, key advantages in a changing global economy. Top technology companies such as DaimlerChrysler, Merck and Siemens have sought Josef’s expertise and also Government agencies such as NASA, the Department of Defense and various intelligence agencies.
Josef’s credibility on innovation is unrivaled — he himself is an innovator. During his doctoral studies in physics at Cambridge and his post-doctoral research at the world- renown Cavendish Laboratory, his groundbreaking work led to multiple U.S., European and International patents.
Josef is also a Certified Speaking Professional, the highest-earned international designation by the National Speakers Association.
December 2019 ❘ 47 ®
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