Six key mindsets for effective problem-solving in uncertain times
By Zion Rufus
In times of great uncertainty, the ability to solve complex problems becomes more crucial than ever. To thrive in such conditions, leaders need to adopt specific mindsets and approaches that enable them to crack even the most inscrutable problems.
After decades of working with leaders across various sectors, McKinsey, a renowned global consulting firm, has identified six problem-solving mindsets that can help individuals and organizations navigate uncertain times successfully.
These mindsets, developed through decades of experience, involve being curious, embracing imperfection and ambiguity, adopting a multi-perspective view, pursuing active experimentation, tapping into collective intelligence, and using storytelling to drive action.
The first mindset is to be ever-curious. This involves asking probing questions and challenging assumptions to get to the root of a problem. Just like four-year-olds who relentlessly ask “why,” leaders should maintain a sense of curiosity and constantly seek a broader range of potential answers.
The second mindset is to tolerate ambiguity and stay humble. Problem solvers must embrace imperfection and be comfortable with making estimates and guesses, even when they are imperfect. Epistemic humility, which acknowledges that knowledge is provisional and subject to revision, is essential for effective problem solving in uncertain environments.
The third mindset is to take a dragonfly-eye view. This means seeing a problem from multiple perspectives and widening the aperture to identify threats and opportunities beyond the familiar. By challenging conventional thinking and considering diverse viewpoints, leaders can unlock richer solution sets.
The fourth mindset is to pursue occurrent behavior. Instead of relying solely on existing data, problem solvers should actively create new data through experiments and observations. This approach is particularly useful in situations where traditional data sources are limited or outdated.
The fifth mindset is to tap into collective intelligence. Recognizing that the smartest people may not be in the room, leaders should seek input and insights from a diverse range of sources. Crowdsourcing and benchmarking can be valuable methods for accessing external expertise and generating innovative ideas.
The sixth and final mindset is to practice “show and tell” to drive action. Effective problem solvers use storytelling and persuasive techniques to connect decision-makers with the problem and inspire action. By creating a compelling narrative and engaging stakeholders emotionally, leaders can mobilize support and drive positive change.
These six problem-solving mindsets provide a systematic approach for leaders to navigate uncertain times and tackle complex challenges. By adopting these mindsets and integrating them into their problem-solving processes, leaders can enhance their ability to find creative and effective solutions. In an increasingly uncertain world, the ability to solve problems is a valuable skill that can drive success and resilience for individuals and organizations alike.
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