Art of Possibilities

One of the concepts in the Art of Possibilities was the ‘Framework of Possibilities.’ This concept, among others, is a great one to keep in the leadership toolbox. Overall, the book shares the importance to think about what it is you’re trying to achieve and map out how you plan to get there. Most importantly is to share the vision with your team. If your team does not know the vision they can get off track. Knowing and keeping the vision intact, especially if/when you or the team gets off-track or slightly distracted which can happen and is human nature, makes it easier to get back on track. Very similar to what happen with the young adults musicians. I love the way the chaperone/instructor engaged them in the first nights debriefing, pointed out the positives and allowed their feedback and input on how they saw things could be better. She masterfully led them into the resolution. I definitely plan to use this strategy as a Changemaker. I find myself in instances where I am the lead organizer facilitating large group discussions with the goal to reach a consensus. Instead of the top down approach, it is important to allow the participants buy -in and engage their thoughts, perspectives and wisdom into the decision-making phases.

Also what resonated with me in the book is how so important it is not take you so seriously — Rule #6. I plan to design a plaque and hang it over my desk. I am sure it would be a great conversation piece to engage in with friends discussing their vision, goals and objectives to help their professional and/or personal projects and paths. When reading this rule, it reminds me of when I maybe in the middle of some important meeting, conversation, reading or writing project, and get interrupted by someone or something I really have no control over or I may think they are doing on purpose which can lead to fury. But in actuality, this may be a time to just stop and count to 10 before I explode and/or derail off track – off my vision. I can control my own actions is a great lesson, and one to share with colleagues and team members.