Creating a Culture of Curiosity and Learning

Building a culture of curiosity and learning in organizations is essential to adapt to a changing world. Encouraging curiosity allows people to notice what isn't working and to explore ways to improve. However, there are obstacles to fostering curiosity, such as the tension between curiosity and smooth operations within organizations. Managers may feel pressured to stick to the original plan and may be resistant to changes or delays. Overcoming these obstacles requires a shift in mindset and the establishment of psychological safety. One effective tool for promoting curiosity and learning is the premortem technique. By imagining that a project has already failed, teams can identify potential problems and weaknesses beforehand, facilitating a culture of candor and an openness to learning from mistakes.