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The Extraordinary Business Book Club

Episode 445 - Both/And Thinking with Wendy Smith

Mar 3, 2025
Wendy Smith, Dana J. Johnson Professor of Management and author of Both/And Thinking, shares her insights on navigating life's complexities. She emphasizes the importance of embracing paradoxical thinking to enhance creativity and decision-making in both personal and professional realms. Wendy reveals her struggles as an extroverted writer and discusses practical strategies for establishing effective writing routines. The conversation also touches on the transformative power of writing and the significance of community collaboration in fostering new ideas.
33:32

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Embracing a Both/And mindset allows individuals to navigate competing demands in personal and professional life more effectively.
  • The interconnectedness of confidence in coaching fosters a supportive environment for individual growth and enhances overall performance.

Deep dives

Embracing Paradox in Decision-Making

Paradox involves recognizing that tensions often exist in our decision-making processes, where individuals may feel torn between competing choices. Instead of framing these options as an either-or situation, the podcast promotes a both-and mindset that allows for a deeper understanding of how these tensions can coexist and complement each other. For instance, a person may struggle with the decision of whether to engage in physical activity or focus on work; both choices are valid and can actually enhance one another's outcomes. By embracing paradox, individuals can create more holistic solutions that lead to better personal and professional growth.

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