

Dr. Otto Scharmer ~ The Essentials of Theory U
16 snips Feb 18, 2020
Dr. Otto Scharmer, a Senior Lecturer at MIT Sloan School and co-founder of the Presencing Institute, discusses his groundbreaking work on Theory U and awareness-based systems change. He emphasizes the importance of deep listening and emotional intelligence in leadership and the shift from individual to collective sense-making for transformative change. Scharmer advocates for regenerative agriculture as a solution to climate issues and highlights the role of citizen-driven democracy in governance. The conversation also touches on the U-Lab project, a global initiative for transformative learning.
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Theory U and Consciousness
- Theory U is an awareness-based systems change approach.
- It emphasizes transforming consciousness to achieve real change, bridging the knowing-doing gap by activating the heart's intelligence.
Responding to Disruption
- Respond to disruption by leaning into the emerging future, not by repeating old patterns or reverting to the past.
- Cultivate open mind, heart, and will—curiosity, empathy, and letting go—to navigate change effectively.
Four Levels of Listening
- Effective change and leadership hinge on listening, with four levels: downloading, factual, empathic, and generative.
- Generative listening involves connecting with someone's highest future potential, seeing them as they could be.