Coaching for Leaders
92: How to Tap Into Wisdom, with Barry Schwartz
Jun 10, 2013
Barry Schwartz, an author and professor at Swarthmore College known for his work on practical wisdom, discusses the nuances of decision-making in leadership. He explores the contrast between theoretical and practical wisdom, emphasizing the importance of context. Schwartz also highlights the vital role of allowing children to learn from mistakes, fostering resilience. He critiques overprotective environments in education, advocating for leadership practices that encourage independence and critical thinking, with a jazz analogy to illustrate adaptability.
33:52
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Quick takeaways
- Practical wisdom is essential for leaders as it allows for better decision-making by considering context and individuality rather than relying on rigid templates.
- Empowering team members to make their own decisions fosters practical wisdom, promotes growth, and ultimately leads to more resilient leadership.
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The Impact of Practical Wisdom
Practical wisdom is defined as the ability to know the right way to do the right thing at the right time, emphasizing the importance of context and individuality in decision-making. Barry Schwartz highlights that the reliance on templates and rules can often lead to mediocrity because these do not account for unique situations and the nuances involved. For instance, while rules can guide behavior, they may fail to yield the best outcomes, especially in leadership demands where every person and circumstance is different. Thus, Schwartz advocates for using practical wisdom to navigate complex decisions that don’t fit neatly into black-and-white categories.
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