This is a real danger for a leader. When we allow this process to occur naturally without challenge we will enter into a space where we will force a solution onto a problem that simply does not fit. Alternatively we may use a problem solving method that just will not work for the issue in question. The danger is we will not necessarily even know that what we are doing is wrong.



How can we combat this tendency?

There are several methods to fight it.

• Mental Model busting

• Learn always and everywhere

• Feedback

• Think through a different construct.

Mental Models

We all have them, we just are not aware of most of them. Our social conditioning provides us with a stable environment in which only a portion of the stimuli around us actually enter our brain. These filters are both a sanity saver and risky filter at the same time. Coupled with our minds filtering ability is its judgment processes or mental models. We have a tendency to reject data that does not support an assumption we have made to a point where we are not aware of the input. (for instance we only see Toyota Prius's and not any other car) We may go even further where we consider a small amount of the sensory input make up our mind then cop an attitude about the situation complete with negative emotions and closed off perspective.

We need to discover what our internal assumptions are. What are these things that hold us back, make us emotionally stunted for periods of time. Once we identify them we can challenge them and eventually change them. Look for negative emotions that inhibit your ability to embrace certain situations and ask why I am feeling acting this way. I have successfully identified and eliminated several negative mental models this way.

The beauty of learning is that you must first unlearn what you think you know. This process of deconstruction continually amazes me. So often I become aware of the limitations of my own thought processes through the threat of learning. You see my brain does not want to learn. It wants to stay static. I see my brain as any other muscle in my body (only with far greater importance) so I exercise it regularly. I believe that learning exercises the brain and definitely breaks down the negative mental models that exist there.

Feedback

Feedback is the best external gut check on how realistic your actions and by extension thoughts are. There is something remarkably powerful about the honest feedback of a trusted friend. When we allow ourselves to consider the validity of an external perspective we create openings. Openings where we can begin to see ourselves from a different point of view.

Constructs

When I get that old sensation that once again I am analyzing a challenging situation from a leadership lens, I often ask myself how else could you look a this challenge. Could this be a systems challenge, a management challenge, a learning challenge, or a communication breakdown. Any other construct that could explain the challenge will do as long as it gets you looking at it from a different point of view.

So that is it, four ways to challenge your mental models and hopefully identify new ways of looking at an old problem. Embracing new ways will allow a leader to begin to adapt to new situations and achieve greater success.