“Go and wake up your luck.” – Persian proverb
We’ve talked about diversity of thought primarily in the context of how different people have different thinking preferences. But as compared to the more traditional dimensions of diversity, diversity of thought is unique in a number of ways, not the least of which is the fact that each of us has diversity of thought within ourselves.
As The Whole Brain Business Book, 2nd Edition, explains:
My research into the brain leads me to believe firmly that the grand design is to be whole—that the normal, ordinary, everyday brain is specialized and interconnected in ways that position it to develop as a balanced, multi-dominant brain that is capable of accessing and using all of its mental options…
However, our data on millions of individuals suggests that a small percentage of people end up being that exquisitely balanced. In the more typical case, as we mature mentally, we develop preferences for particular modes of processing.
Are these “exquisitely balanced” people just luckier than the rest of us?
While it’s true that it’s more natural for them to access, shift and apply diversity of thought as the need arises, the big message here is that we’re all lucky. We just need to wake up our luck.
Developing Your Mental Muscles
St. Patrick’s Day is a good reminder that you have this lucky charm with you, just waiting to be put into action. But developing and accessing your diversity of thought is like building a muscle. You need consistent practice.
To give you the motivation to get started, think about a long-term goal you want to achieve. Maybe you want to get a promotion, change careers, achieve a personal or professional milestone, or inject more creativity or structure into your work. Now consider:
Select the area(s) you want to be more proficient in, and either pick one activity a day from the list below or repeat one until you feel that you’ve got it, then move to another.
A. AnalysisDo you need to exercise your logical thinking? Your process orientation? How about your kinesthetic or risk-taking abilities? You’re in luck! The Whole Brain Business Book includes a seven-day program with plenty of specific activities to choose from to build your thinking diversity muscles. Order your copy today and wake up your luck!