Vulnerability is an asset because it drives action. Arrogance blocks action. Proud people play it safe to protect status. Ego avoids failure to save face. Vulnerability is humble.
Humility acts—pride reacts.
We’re not vulnerable when fear of failure controls us – we’re proud.
Vulnerability confronts limitations and grows.
Unexpected criticism invites defensiveness. You do your best at work and the boss suggests minor improvements. Or your brother’s ungrateful friend comes to dinner.
Defensiveness invites rebuttal.
The person who says everything on their mind multiplies trouble. You don’t need to express yourself.
Wisdom prepares for the inevitable. Here’s how.
Infants mimic adults when they learn to talk. Adults choose their own words.
Novices imitate. Experts craft their own path.
Imitation comes before mastery. Don’t copy successful people too long.
We master something when we understand the principles behind it.
How to move from mimicry to mastery?
Many leaders weaken decision-making by prioritizing agreement over commitments.
Over-concern about agreement sabotages decision-making. In some situations, people don’t commit until they agree 100%. When that’s true, change your process and expect everyone to commit once decisions are made.
Those who aren’t committed find fault. Those who are committed find a way.
Consensus decision-making is an obstacle to success when groups are large, and issues are complicated.
Requiring 100% agreement unnecessarily complicates decisions.
Forget consensus; aim for commitment when making decisions.
Microsoft (MS) missed the Smartphone revolution. Windows operating system never got traction in the mobile sector. Zune – Microsoft’s music player was a colossal failure. The launch of Xbox One required a retooling of their approach to gaming. They weren’t learning fast enough.
CEO Satya Nadella is building a learn-it-all mindset at Microsoft.
