Introduction
In the first episode of his new “Behind the wheel” LinkedIn Live series, our CEO Paul Dawson, along with guest Martyn Swift, discussed the theme of embracing negativity to fuel success. Paul shared personal experiences, highlighting the importance of anticipating potential challenges and fostering an environment where team members feel safe to voice concerns. By confronting ‘what ifs’ and encouraging open dialogue, we can create stronger, more resilient strategies for success.
Shifting Focus
Historically, we’ve discussed using data and insights to drive business. However, this new series Paul delves into decision-making processes and how to plan and focus on ensuring successful delivery of change. The topic on the day was how to embrace negativity and use it to our benefit.
The Power of Negativity
This first session focused on how we overcome obstacles to achieve our objectives. Reflecting on past experiences, we realised that while we excel at planning positive steps, we often neglect potential obstacles. By spending more time considering potential issues, we can develop proactive plans to address them.
We recently faced rapid growth, which put pressure on our resources and service levels. If we had planned for this scenario earlier, we could have had ready actions to manage it effectively. This experience highlighted the importance of considering constraints and planning accordingly.
Paul and Martyn emphasised the importance creating a safe environment for discussing negative thoughts. Encouraging team members to share their concerns can lead to identifying previously unseen issues and re-educating team members to support change better. This process involves understanding different perspectives and biases, which can significantly enhance decision-making.
Collaborative Problem-Solving
Sharing problems within the team can lead to collective problem-solving, revealing that issues may not be as insurmountable as initially thought. This collaborative approach ensures that everyone is aligned and working towards the same goals, ultimately leading to better outcomes.
Strategic Planning
To avoid being consumed by concerns and worries, it’s crucial to have clear, actionable plans for different scenarios. This involves thinking beyond the “happy path” and preparing for unexpected challenges. By doing so, we can confidently navigate obstacles and remain focused on our objectives.
Embracing negativity is not about fostering a negative environment but about proactively addressing potential issues. By planning for obstacles and creating a safe space for discussing concerns, we can turn negativity into a powerful tool for success. This approach ensures that we are prepared for challenges and can maintain momentum towards achieving our goals.
