Ep. # 118: Appreciative Intelligence with Tojo Thatchenkery
May 26, 2020
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Tojo Thatchenkery, a professor at George Mason University, discusses Appreciative Intelligence, highlighting the importance of finding generative potential in the present. They explore reframing challenges as opportunities for growth, emphasizing curiosity, resilience, and self-efficacy in driving innovation. The conversation delves into effective knowledge sharing in organizations and reframing to boost employee engagement during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Appreciative intelligence focuses on finding generative potential in the present moment.
Reframing difficult situations with appreciative intelligence involves tolerance for ambiguity and persistence for innovative solutions.
Deep dives
The Power of Reframing and Appreciative Intelligence
Reframing allows us to see something positive in a situation and work with it to make it a reality. Silicon Valley organizations have a different mindset when it comes to taking risks and reframing new ideas. They focus on how to make things work instead of dwelling on the chances of failure. This mindset enables them to be more comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty. Appreciative intelligence is a type of intelligence that involves reframing and seeing the positive potential in a situation. It allows us to be more open to possibilities and connects closely with curiosity. By reframing and appreciating the positive, we can leverage uncertainty and create innovation and resilience.
Tolerance for Ambiguity and Persistence as Markers of Appreciative Intelligence
Appreciative intelligence is characterized by tolerance for ambiguity and a strong sense of persistence and conviction. These markers play a crucial role in reframing difficult situations and seeing the generative possibilities within them. People with appreciative intelligence have the confidence and resilience to take action and believe that their actions matter. They have a curiosity that allows them to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty, which can lead to innovative solutions and opportunities even in challenging times.
Appreciative Sharing for Knowledge and the Importance of Assumptions
Appreciative sharing for knowledge is a management tool that leverages tacit knowledge in organizations. It focuses on identifying the enablers of knowledge sharing and reframing the assumptions surrounding knowledge sharing culture. Many organizations face challenges in sharing knowledge effectively due to fear of redundancy or loss of job security. However, by highlighting examples of successful knowledge sharing and reframing the culture, organizations can tap into the untapped potential and drive innovation. As we navigate uncertain times like the current pandemic, reframing assumptions about remote work and education can lead to new possibilities and opportunities.
Appreciative Intelligence rests in the ability to "see the mighty oak in the acorn." George Mason University Schar School of Policy and Government professor Tojo Thatchenkery believes such intelligence is especially important right now.
Finding generative potential in the here and now.
Theme music is by Sean Balick, "Partly Sage" by Bodytonic, via Blue Dot Sessions.
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